Mazda MX-5 Miata

The fourth-generation MX-5 Miata debuted for 2016 wearing a more aggressive look than its predecessors, with squinty headlights, sharper body angles and a slightly wider and lower stance. Extensive use of aluminum helped the new car shed about 150 pounds compared to the outgoing model. The SkyActiv 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine made 155 horsepower, and a much-improved interior included new safety and technology features. A Targa-style retractable-hardtop version named RF (for Retractable Fastback) was added for 2017. A 2019 refresh brought several internal improvements, including a revamped engine (now with 181 hp), revamped muffler for a snarkier exhaust note and a tilt/telescopic steering column in place of the previous tilt-only unit. Mazda also celebrated the Miata’s 30th anniversary with a specially trimmed limited-edition model in exclusive Racing Orange paint.

The Miata got a clean-sheet redesign for 2006 that made it a bit bigger and more powerful than before. The MX-5 name was officially added to the U.S. model (to match the car’s name in other parts of the world), but most Americans still called it just “Miata.” The previous 142-horsepower, 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine was replaced by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder that made 170 hp with the five- or six-speed manual transmission and 166 hp with the six-speed automatic. A power retractable hardtop variant arrived for 2007, and 2009 brought a refresh that included revised styling and an updated interior.