2007 Mazda MX-5: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The two-seat sports car originally called Miata is available with a retractable hardtop for 2007. MX-5 now offers a choice of a manually folding soft top with heated glass rear window, or a power-folding hardtop. The lineup begins with the soft-top only SV model, and ascends through Sport, Touring, and Grand Touring models, which are available with either top. All use a 4-cyl engine rated at 166 hp with manual transmission, 163 with automatic. SV and Sport use a 5-speed manual, others a 6-speed. Optional except for SV is a 6-speed automatic. Side airbags that protect both head and torso are standard. So is ABS. Traction/antiskid control and a sport suspension are available. The hardtop opens or closes in 12 sec, steals no luggage space, and adds 77 lb to the car's weight. A removable hardtop is optional for soft-top MX-5s.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. The Sporty/Performance Car class consists of two-seat roadsters, 4-cyl hatchbacks, and V8 muscle cars. Regardless of configuration, all have an emphasis on affordable performance.

Our Best Buys include the Mazda MX-5 and Scion tC. Our Recommended picks are the Ford Mustang, Mini Cooper, and Nissan 350Z.

New or significantly redesigned models include the Mini Cooper, Nissan 350Z, and Saturn Sky.