During its debut to the masses at the 1989 Chicago Auto Show, the tiny Miata created a big buzz. For years thereafter, Mazda reconnected with the Windy City show, introducing special limited editions.
The simplistic formula continues in 2017: design a two-seat, fun-to-maneuver, rear-drive, open top roadster with pricing not necessitating a second mortgage.
Many emulated this not-so-secret blue print, few succeeded. Historical footnotes include Honda's S2000 (2000 to 2009) with its sharp exterior, but lacking return clientele. Miata not only out distanced much heralded General Motors two-seat rivals Sky and Solstice, but outlasted their parent companies as well (Saturn and Pontiac respectively).
In other corners of the globe, Mazda markets this roadster as the MX-5. In the U.S. it was born as Miata, a name resonating twenty-seven years later. Mazda now combines both perspectives here in the states, utilizing theMX-5 Miata moniker. On April 22, 2016, the one-millionth MX-5 Miata rolled off the Hiroshima assembly line.
In the 2016 model year, Mazda introduced a fourth-generation makeover, shedding about 150 pounds; the result of implementing Mazda's SkyActiv architecture consisting of a redefined chassis structure, updated transmission and a higher compression engine. Curb weight checks in at a svelte 2,332 pounds, allowing maximization of the standard, naturally-aspirated 2.0-liter four cylinder engine and its 155 horsepower.
Sales growth reflects a positive response regarding the redesign. In the 2015 calendar year, MX-5 Miata sales totaled 8,591, but climbed to 9,465 in 2016, a healthy 10.2 percent spike.
Casting a wide net to attract a large pool of shoppers MX-5 does not: Family friendly? Only if the kids, two dogs and Uncle Billy stay behind.
Wind noise? Why, yes! With the convertible top drawn down, expect frizzed head hair (for those still boasting such patchwork) and elevated conversation decibels.
Ease of ingress and egress? This low-slung gem encourages "Age Deniers" (those conveniently misplacing 20 years of biological timeframe) to keep creaking body parts limber by bending knees and twisting torsos.
Smooth glide ride? Please. Miata demands occupants get to know pavement imperfections on a first-name basis.
Shopping at Home Depot? Limit the itinerary to nuts and bolts.
However, MX-5 Miata attracts a dedicated niche audience enjoying an exhilarating open air experience. While tooling through winding DuPage County public roads, a fellow 'convertiblee' did a polite double take while piloting his top-down Chevrolet Camaro.
Mazda introduced a power folding hard-top during its third-generation debut in 2006 while also soldiering on with the popular, manual-folding soft top.
Our tester's manual black canvas top, with glass rear window and defroster, easily folded back utilizing just one hand while staying planted in the cushy bucket seat. A single latch near the rearview mirror detaches the light-weight roof from the frame, then Z-folds in three sections when guided rearward before snapping into place. No tonneu covering needed as the top fold serves as the rounded cover.
Since its inception, MX-5 Miata retains head-turning styling with tops up or down. Viewed from profile, expect a gentle ocean wave contour coursing back to front. Arched front fenders flank the longgggg hood with a curved front end, over biting the elongated U-shaped grille and contrasting with a stout back end. Deep-set, red circular tail lights highlight the back end.
Soft tops return in three varieties (Sport, Club and Grand Touring) while retractable RF hardtops drop the entry Sport. Pricing starts at an attainable $24,915 for a six-speed manual soft-top Sport trim.
Our tester, a top-level Grand Touring soft-top with six-speed manual started at $30,065 Exclusive to Grand Touring: body-colored power outside mirrors, intermittent wipers, up-level air conditioning, heated leatherette seats and in-dash navigation. It's also the sole trim with audible lane departure warnings standard.
Expect little change in 2017 from the 2016 redo save for standard blind spot monitoring and rear cross traffic alert in the Club trim (previously standard in only Grand Touring). Also, exclusive to the U.S. market, retracting hard-tops get a limited run (1,000 units) Launch Edition with auburn Nappa leather interior and machine gray metallic exterior paint.
The short-throw, six-speed manual transmission shifts predictably with an easy-glide, foot clutch. Side doors return with feather-weight poundage, easily swinging in and out.
Interior storage nooks are few. A vertical door between and behind the two bucket seats drops down for access to the owner's manual while the conventional glove box is a distant memory.
A welcome offering: three extra-large tactile dials monitoring fan speed, direction and temperature. Push-button start comes standard.
A hand-operated parking brake resides right of the transmission shifter while the shallow, vertical storage bin holds an IPass transponder, but not much more. Two removable wire-frame cup holders pluck in and out of a recessed grove. If utilized, 'Age Deniers' need to carefully stretch behind the torso to nab a cup of Joe or a splash of purified water.
A seven-inch, flat, multi-function infotainment screen extends up from the top-central dash, a prominent visual highlight and a key component of "Mazda Connect."
A 'Command Control' circular chrome twist-and-push knob between bucket seats allows scrolling through a host of tutorial options, selectable by a downward push. A smaller, stalk-like volume knob resides to the right. Secondary audio and preset selectors are located at the steering wheel's 3 o'clock position. Three select buttons (home, music and navigation) are located in front of the twist-push dial for quick access.
Trunk size remains constant with the top prone or slicked back. At 4.59 cubic feet, enough room awaits for a couple sizable backpacks and accompanying water bottles.
Optimal results require higher-octane petro when filling the diminutive 11.9-gallon tank. Mileage estimates check in at 26 mpg city and 33 mpg highway. Add two miles highway with automatic transmission. This engine also powers the Mazda3 compact sedan.
This same Miata took part in the Midwest Automotive Media Association's Spring Rally last month. With temperatures hovering in the mid-50s, Miata delivered a calming experience through the winding Elkhart Lake Wisconsin roads near Road America sans the top. Front-rear weight distribution remains 53-47, allowing the road connection to shine.
If imitation rates as the sincerest form of flattery, MX-5 is blushing brightly. Two years back, Fiat introduced its latest incarnation of the 214 Spider. The project, a joint venture between Mazda and Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, resulted in a 214 Spider sharing visual and many platform cues with the mighty Miata. Maybe Sky and Solstice (along with Saturn and Pontic) would still be rolling if utilizing this strategy.
At A Glance
2017 MX-5 Miata
Starting price: $24,914
Engine: 2.0-liter four cylinder
Horsepower: 155
Wheelbase: 90.9 inches
Overall Length: 154.1 inches
Overall Height: 48.6 inches
Overall Width: 68.3 inches
Curb weight: 2,332 pounds
Fuel Economy: 26 mpg city 33 mpg highway
Assembly: Japan
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