2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata

Re-Roofing the Roadster

The Mazda MX-5 Miata adds an optional power-retractable hardtop for 2007 and otherwise changes very little.

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After a complete redesign for 2006, the fun and feisty Mazda MX-5 Miata gains an optional power-folding hardtop this year. At an estimated $3,000 premium, it adds 70 pounds to the car’s overall weight, but it doesn’t reduce trunk space.

While sports car purists will no doubt stick with the lighter, standard, manual soft-top, the new hardtop adds a measure of comfort in foul weather and security when parking the vehicle on the street.

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The new third-generation MX-5 — now unofficially called the Miata — was redesigned for 2006 with more-aggressive looks, a larger interior and a more-powerful engine. Even though it grew slightly in size and weight, its legendary fun factor remains as ever.

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, Saturn 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 optional hardtop folds at the push of a button and follows an industry trend started by the Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class that has more convertible models sprouting these folding metal wonders. Other new models with such tops include the Pontiac G6, Volvo C70 and Volkswagen Eos. It’s expected to add as much as $3,000 to the price of the MX-5 Miata.

The Mazda MX-5 Miata changes little for 2007. The passenger window now features a one-touch-to-lower function on Touring and Grand Touring models as well as the Sport version when equipped with the optional Convenience Package. Two new exterior colors, Stormy Blue and Highland Green, have been added.

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A lightweight two-liter, four-cylinder engine derived from the same motor used in the Mazda3 and Mazda6 sedans carries over unchanged. It features advanced technology, such as variable intake-valve timing, to generate a respectable 170 hp.

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Three transmissions are available. As before, a five-speed manual comes standard. A 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 Mazda MX-5 Miata with an automatic gearbox is sacrilegious. Even so, a six-speed auto transmission is available, replete with steering-wheel-mounted paddles — Formula One-style — to shift through the gears manually.

Mazda MX-5 Miata Vehicle Summary

Precise and nimble handling has always been the Miata's forte, and the current model doesn't disappoint. A wider track and nearly perfect front-to-rear weight distribution, along with a sophisticated suspension, offer superb handling. A standard four-wheel disc antilock braking system affords quick and controlled stops.

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As before, the standard soft-top features a glass rear window and is manually operated. It can be unlatched and folded with one hand, which can’t be said of the competing Pontiac Solstice and Saturn Sky’s awkwardly folding roof. A removable, fixed hardtop is optional for winter-weather use.

For top-down comfort, waist-level louver vents direct warm or cool air throughout the cabin, and a mesh air deflector mounts behind the seats to reduce wind turbulence.

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The 2007 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. Front and side-impact airbags are standard across the line.

Mazda is in the process of renaming all of its vehicles under an alphanumeric scheme that is so popular in the industry now. The Miata moniker will eventually disappear entirely, leaving this well-loved roadster to be called the MX-5.

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