Featured Guide
Featured Guide
Featured Guide
Featured Guide
Featured Guide
Featured Guide
Featured Guide
Now in its fourth generation, the Mazda MX-5 Miata is powered by a 181-horsepower, 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that works with a standard six-speed manual or an optional six-speed automatic transmission. This rear-wheel-drive two-seater comes with a standard manual-folding soft-top; a nifty but pricey RF model has a power-folding retractable hardtop. The MX-5 is built on the same platform as the Fiat 124 Spider, and other rivals include the Toyota 86 and Subaru BRZ.
Horsepower jumps to 181 from 155 hp thanks to several internal changes to the engine and revisions to the exhaust system. Torque is up by 3 pounds-feet to 151. A new backup camera is standard, along with a telescoping steering column. New options include a brown canvas soft-top, metallic black 17-inch wheels, traffic sign recognition and low-speed automatic emergency braking.
The MX-5 Miata’s most important features are the kind you can’t check off on a list of specs: seductive looks, brisk acceleration, crisp handling, a convertible top that’s easy to fold and raise and the ability to make you smile just about every time you get behind the wheel.
If you can afford nearly $27,000 for a highly impractical car, go for it. Your reward will be the enjoyment of driving it.