wordplay: Greg Bloom

Since MX-5’s inception in 1989, the world’s best-selling 2-seat roadster has received more than 150 awards including Car & Driver “10 Best” seven times. It is said that its affordability and fun-to-drive characteristics have made the Miata a “segment saving” manufacturer’s dream. It has sold more than 800,000 units in its 19-year accredited lifetime. I, for one have never gotten tired of seeing the sporty little tots on the road because they’ve always looked like so much fun to shoot around in. My feelings didn’t change when I had it for this week. I even got a couple of topless-worthy days in.

The 2008 MX-5, as an array of models do, launched this year with some new bells and whistles previously unavailable. A driver’s seat-lifter with manual adjustment, standard Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) and a six-disc CD changer for Touring and Grand Touring models give the previously simplistic roadster a tad more credibility. The Miata of today rolls with a 2.0-liter, 166-horsepower light and compact engine, featuring chain-driven double overhead camshafts, lightweight fly wheel, variable intake valve timing, electronically controlled port fuel injection and coil-on-plug ignition. The weight-saving measures implemented this year include the exaggerated use of aluminum and lightweight composite plastics in many of its engine parts, helping its evolved technology make the car brilliantly responsive.  It reacts to driver commands with lightning-quick reflexes, and offers progressive power delivery.  I can attest to that, as it was difficult not to push the envelope on hairpin turns.

A close-ratio five-speed manual transmission or a six-speed manual gearbox are available, as it is a Sport A/T automatic transmission which will add dimension to the MX-5’s personality. Paddle shifters are mounted behind the steering wheel to command upshifts, while buttons positioned on the spokes of the steering wheel are used for downshifts, common in many new car models.

Seat-back bars add a sporty eye-catching detail to the MX-5 when scoping it out from behind, while its soft convertible top is the fastest power-operated retractable hard top in the U.S. and gives it its forever-classic appearance.

If you are in it for the love of the Miata but were skeptical because of its simplicity, The Grand Touring model gets heated leather seats, faux leather door trim, cloth soft top, and a BOSE® audio system with seven speakers, giving the MX-5 the credibility you need today. The Premium Package gets Mazda Advanced Keyless Entry & Start System, DSC with Traction Control, Anti-theft alarm, HID headlights and Limited Slip Differential. 
If you’re up for fun in the sun on a rolling mountain road or out for a short LoDo lunch spin, the ’08 MX-5 gives you the sporty quickness you need while catching the necessary eye and gloving its way into the tightest of downtown parking spaces.

MazdaUSA.com