Strengths

Classic roadster driving experience and overall performance; easy manual top operation; fuel efficiency.

 

Changes

For 2009, the Mazda Miata gets a mild facelift. The front fascia has been largely revised, with a new, larger front grille opening and updated fog and driving lights. Otherwise the model carries over essentially unchanged.

 

Value

The Mazda Miata continues to have a loyal, cult-like following for its sports-car simplicity and reputation for reliability and longevity. When compared with other small two-seat roadsters for 2009, the Miata is not at all luxurious; rather, it stands out among two-seat roadsters for its back-to-basics packaging, with an easy-to-operate manual soft top and an emphasis on light weight and sharp handling and braking. It's also very economical to run, with fuel economy ratings of 21 city, 28 highway with the 6-speed manual.

 

Overview

The 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata, or just Miata, as it's more commonly known, comes with a 166-horsepower, 2.0L 4-cylinder engine, matched with a standard 5-speed manual transmission and rear-wheel drive. A 6-speed manual is standard on top Touring, Grand Touring and Special Edition models, and a 6-speed Sport automatic that includes paddle-shifters beside the steering wheel is available on all but the base SV.

The engine is mounted rather far back to ensure a good weight balance, and it uses a modern aluminum block with chain-driven overhead camshafts, plus variable intake valve timing for better low- and mid-rev response. At least 90 percent of engine torque is available from 2500 rpm up to 6700.

The Miata's driving experience is unlike most other vehicles available, with its exceptionally light weight, tight suspension, direct steering, rev-happy engine, and short-throw shifter combining to create a very direct driving experience that gives a feel of open-air speed without actually having to break the law.

The Miata comes with a standard manual-folding soft top with a centrally located latch handle to make it easy and quick. There's also a Power Retractable Hard Top model, which adds a weather-tight folding hard top that opens or closes in only 12 seconds.

The Miata soft top is available in SV, Sport, Touring, Grand Touring and Special Edition trim, while the power hard-top model is offered in Sport, Touring and Grand Touring trim. The SV model, which only comes with a manual transmission, is very basic, with no air conditioning or power accessories. At the top of the range, the Grand Touring model does come very well equipped, with air conditioning, remote keyless entry, cruise control, leather heated seats, a 6-disc CD changer and power windows, locks, and mirrors all on the standard equipment list.

A Premium Package on the Grand Touring model adds a keyless entry and start system, electronic stability control, an alarm system, and HID headlights. Other noteworthy options include satellite radio and a limited-slip rear differential.