Strengths

Classic roadster driving experience, fun performance; easy manual top operation; fuel efficiency.

 

Changes

For 2010, the Mazda Miata gets a mild facelift. The front fascia has been slightly revised, and new headlamps with design influences from the latest MAZDA6 have been added. The 2.0-liter inline four gets a minor boost in power to 167 horses-up from 166 in 2009. The former SV base model has been discontinued. 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 2010, 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 and 28 highway with the 6-speed manual.

 

Overview

The 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata, or just Miata, as it's more commonly known, comes with a 167-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 uplevel trims Touring, Grand Touring and Special Edition models. A 6-speed Sport automatic that includes steering-wheel paddle-shifters is also available.

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. Up to 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 an optional 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 Sport, Touring, Grand Touring and Special Edition trim, while the power hard-top model is offered in Sport, Touring and Grand Touring trim. At the top of the range, the Grand Touring model comes 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 Xenon headlights. Other noteworthy options include satellite radio and a limited-slip rear differential.