2006 Mazda Miata MX-5 Test Drive

Quintessential Modern Roadster Reborn

The all-new 2006 MX-5 Miata is still lean, but buffs up where it counts -- under the hood.

The new third-generation MX-5 — now unofficially called the Miata — has been completely redesigned with more aggressive looks, a larger interior and more powerful engine. Even though it has grown slightly in size and weight, its legendary fun factor hasn't been diluted.

Originally launched for the 1989 model year, the Miata was inspired by seductive Fiat, MG and Triumph two-seaters from the 1960s. It sparked a roadster revolution that is still going, and the MX-5 continues to thrive despite growing competition from Audi, BMW, Chrysler, Pontiac and Mercedes-Benz. Its success lies in being simple, stylish, fun and affordable. Despite several significant updates over the years, it has held steadfast to its roots and remains a chic, peppy, reliable sports car.

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The new MX-5 looks more aggressive than the model it replaces, thanks to bulging wheel arches and a revamped front end. The whole car has grown little in size, but has a wider, roomier cabin. Side-impact airbags are new.

The 2006 MX-5 rectifies a deficiency that has plagued the Miata since its inception: a weak engine. A new lightweight two-liter four-cylinder engine derived from the same motor used in the Mazda3 and Mazda6 features advanced technology such as variable intake-valve timing to generate a respectable 170 horsepower. That's 28 hp more than last year's 1.8-liter version and only eight shy of the discontinued turbo-charged MazdaSpeed version. The car is livelier with better acceleration than before, especially since it gains only 22 pounds compared to the 2005 model.

Three transmissions are available. As before, a five-speed manual comes standard. A new short-throw six-speed manual is optional. It's more precise and requires less effort to operate than the standard transmission.

Some would argue that outfitting a roadster like the MX-5 with an automatic is sacrilegious. Even so, a new six-speed auto transmission is available, replete with steering-column mounted paddles — Formula-One style — to shift through the gears manually.

Precise and nimble handling has always been the Miata's forte and the new model doesn't disappoint. A revised chassis delivers a less jarring ride, while a wider track and nearly perfect front-to-rear weight distribution, along with a sophisticated suspension, offer superb handling. A revised four-wheel-disc braking system affords quicker and more controlled stops.

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As before, the top is manually operated and can be unlatched and folded with one hand; a removable hard top is optional for winter-weather use. Waist-level louver vents direct warm or cool air throughout the cabin to keep it comfortable. A mesh air deflector mounts behind the seats to help reduce top-down turbulence.

The 2006 version is available in base, Touring, Sport and Grand Touring models, each coming with progressively more features. A stripped-down Club Spec model is for weekend racers.

The new MX-5 improves upon its predecessor in many ways, but one change may not sit well with Miata enthusiasts. Mazda is in the process of renaming all of its vehicles under an alphanumeric scheme so popular in the industry now. The "Miata" moniker will soon disappear entirely, leaving this well-loved roadster to be called the MX-5.

A full review is coming soon.