2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata Power

Hardtop Grand Touring

In short: A sporty, quick-handling hardtop roadster.

The Miata, now known as the MX-5, keeps getting better and better all the time. This is basically the exact same car as our previous review of the MX-5, but with one significant difference: the hardtop convertible roof that we are seeing from more and more manufacturers these days (Mercedes-Benz SLK, Volvo C70, VW EOS). So due to more pressure from the competition, “the little sports car that can” had to get better. With its cult following, we think this road hugging go-kart like ride will enjoy a long life.

Unlatch the hardtop at the point of contact with just one handle, push the open button, et voila! In about 12 seconds, you go from the cozy environment of a coupe to enjoying the sun rays with your new-found convertible. Because it’s so easy to switch options, you’ll find yourself driving more exactly the way you want it when you want it, be it top up or down.

The design is clean, part classic part modern, and more round than square. The cockpit remains nearly as tight as a Formula 1 and overall storage space remains rather limited. Good for one person with stuff —unless that person happens to be Yao Ming —or two with not much stuff. There is plenty of pep, with direct steering and good braking.

One of the on-going complaints with this model is the stickiness of the short throw manual gear box. You may opt for a 6-speed automatic electronically-controlled transmission with paddle shifter. Instrumentation is well-organized with good duplication on the steering wheel. But don’t get lost, as there is no DVD navigation option available – unless Yao managed to get in with his Garmin GPS. Also, we’re still waiting for heated seats. But Zoom-Zoom aficionados will love this roadster, curvy roads preferred.

Read a review of the 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata Grand Touring
and the 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata

Warranty/Service: 3-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty; 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty; 24-hour roadside assistance.

QUICK SHEET

Base Price: $21,030 / As tested: $28,670

Technical Specifications
Vehicle type: front-engine, rear-wheel drive, 2-passenger, 2-door hardtop convertible roadster Engine: 2.0-liter inline-4 Horsepower: 166 bhp @ 6,700 rpm Torque: 140 lb-ft @ 5,000 rpm Transmission: 6-speed manual Curb weight: 2,567 lbs Wheelbase: 91.7 in Length/Width/Height: 157.3/67.7/49 in Turning circle: 15.4 ft Brakes: 4-wheel disc with ABS Suspension: independent front and rear	Traction: traction control; limited slip differential Safety: front airbags; side airbags; passenger airbag deactivation switch 0-60 mph: 7.5 seconds Top Speed: 131 mph EPA City: 24 mpg EPA Highway: 30 mpg

Check out other Mazda models
Read all Automobile Reviews
Visit the Mazda website

Photography: AlphaMedia

PNJ081707

(Updated: 04/27/09 SV)