2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The 2009 Mazda MX-5, which is also known as the Mazda Miata, receives slightly freshened styling. Miata offers the choice of a manually-folding soft top with a 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, which are available with either top. All use a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine rated at 167 hp with manual transmission, 158 with automatic. SV and Sport use a 5-speed manual while the Touring and Grand Touring get a 6-speed. Optional on all but the SV is a 6-speed automatic. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, and side airbags that provide head and torso protection. A sport suspension is available on manual-transmission Tourings and Grand Tourings. The hardtop opens or closes in 12 seconds, steals no luggage space, and adds 77 lb to the car's weight.

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-cylinder hatchbacks, and V8 muscle cars. Regardless of configuration, all have an emphasis on affordable performance.

Our Best Buys include the Mazda MX-5, Mini Cooper, and Scion tC. Our Recommended picks are the Dodge Challenger, Ford Mustang, and Volkswagen GTI. New this year is a coupe version of the Pontiac Solstice, and the Nissan 350Z is scheduled for a makeover.