2016 Mazda MX-5 Miata

Twenty-six years and nearly a million cars later, Mazda has hit the reset button on the MX-5 Miata, as it’s now known. (Mazda tried to drop the “Miata” name in favor of simply “MX-5,” to no avail.) With a complete redo for 2016, this fourth generation is smaller than the last few Miatas, yet little has changed since the roadster’s debut in 1989, with only about 30 horsepower separating the first Miata from the 2016 edition.
 
The two-seater is available in three trim levels: Sport, Club, and my tester, Grand Touring. Features include Bose audio, leather-trimmed heated seats, and a 7-inch color touchscreen.
 
Exterior styling is consistent with the classic formula – long hood, short rear deck, and low, wide, simple body panels. Even though the car is actually 4 inches shorter than the previous model, there’s a bit more room inside. Still, the Miata will not accommodate anyone over 6 feet tall.
 
Any complaints about the interior’s tight cabin are rendered moot when you drop the top and take to the road. It’s one of the most relaxing and fun vehicles you can drive.
 
Opening the top is as simple as grabbing the latch at the headliner and pulling it over your shoulder. The top folds in an instant and forms its own canvas tonneau cover. To raise the top, simply push it down a bit and pull it up into place.
 
Handling is nearly perfect, and power comes from a 155-horsepower, 2.0-liter “Skyactiv” 4-cylinder engine mated to a 6-speed manual transmission.
 
While the MX-5 Miata has its shortcomings, like the useless cupholders, it overall remains an absolute blast to drive at an affordable price.