The 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata Sports Cars. The Mazda MX-5 Miata is a dream, especially for sports car enthusiasts on a budget. Many test drivers even assert that the Mazda Miata is the best sports car available at this price point.
It doesn't trump the "Mazda Miata" in terms of handling, but most affordable sports car shoppers will still find it plenty satisfying.
Mazda MX-5 Miata
The soft top Mazda Miata is available in three trims: Sport, Touring and Grand Touring. The power retractable hardtop is available in two: Touring and Grand Touring.
The 2010 Mazda Miata continues the original formula of light weight, engaging driving dynamics, simplicity and, above all, fun. The power-retractable hardtop model weighs a bit more, but in return it grants extra top-up security and noise reduction. Cars like the Ford Mustang and Mini Cooper convertibles offer many creature comforts and plenty of personality, but they can't match the 2010 Mazda Miata's simplicity and agility. For a fun, zippy and affordable roadster that provides plenty of top-down enjoyment, the Mazda Miata is the best out there. For Pricing information, see our Pricing page.
The 2010 "Mazda MX-5 Miata" is a two-seat roadster that is available with either a soft top or power-retractable hardtop (PRHT). It is offered in three trim levels, from the base Sport model to the Touring and range-topping Grand Touring variants. In Sport trim, standard features include 16-inch alloy wheels, a black vinyl convertible top with a glass rear window, air-conditioning, cloth seats, a six-speaker sound system with a CD/MP3 player and an auxiliary input jack, a height-adjustable driver seat, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and power windows and mirrors.
The Grand Touring steps up with the choice of a cloth black or beige top, automatic climate control, leather upholstery, heated seats, a seven-speaker Bose audio system and silver interior accents. The PRHT models are identically equipped but are only offered in Touring and Grand Touring trim.
Most options are grouped in numerous packages. Touring and Grand Touring models can increase the Mazda Miata already nimble handling with the Suspension package (only available with a manual transmission), which includes a sport-tuned suspension with Bilstein shocks and a limited-slip differential. The Grand Touring qualifies for the Premium package that features stability control, keyless ignition/entry, xenon HID headlights, Bluetooth and satellite radio.
The 2010 Mazda Miata is powered by 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine that produces 167 hp (158 with the automatic transmission) and 140 pound-feet of torque. Sport models come standard with a five-speed manual transmission while Touring and Grand Touring models receive a 6th gear. Fuel economy is also impressive at an EPA-estimated 22 mpg city/28 mpg highway and 24 mpg in combined driving for the five-speed manual.
As with previous Mazda Miata cockpits, the latest version features simple and legible gauges along with user-friendly and well-placed controls.
Drivers with less sporting intentions will likely find the 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata easy to live with and comfortable for long stints in either top-up or top-down mode.