2010 Mazda MX-5

IT HUGS THE ROAD. AND THE ROAD HUGS BACK.

The convertible that changed the way people look at roadsters isn’t letting up anytime soon. The legendary MX-5 continues to build on its legacy with fresh new styling, a redesigned front end and an upgraded 167-hp, 2.0 L engine. All topped off by two ingeniously engineered tops: One of the most user-friendly convertible soft tops on the planet or a Power Retractable Hardtop (PRHT) that can be lowered or raised in a class-leading 12 seconds. After more than 19 years of embodying the emotion of motion, MX-5 is still one of the world’s most popular open-top sports cars. Not that it’s a popularity contest. But if it were, we’d win.

For 2009, the Mazda MX-5 receives a number of upgrades, including engine improvements that increase horsepower from 166 to 167, but with improved fuel economy, and a mild facelift. The GT receives the bulk of the new features, and while the power retractable hard top is still optional on the GS trim line, it's now standard on the GT. The GT also receives standard electronic stability control, which previously came on that trim line only when ordered with the optional Performance Package.

The MX-5 uses a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with one of three transmissions: a five-speed manual on the GX, and a six-speed manual on the GS and GT. All can be optioned to a six-speed automatic with manual shift mode that includes paddle shifters on the GS and GT.

Features on the GX include 16-inch alloy wheels, vinyl top with glass rear window and electric rear defogger, power mirrors, intermittent wipers, fog lights, black seatback bars, CD/MP3/WMA stereo with auxiliary input, cruise control, leather-wrapped wheel with audio controls, power locks with keyless entry, auto-down windows, floor mats, reclining cloth seats, anti-theft alarm, and locking glovebox. Air conditioning is available as an option.

The GS adds 17-inch alloy wheels, air conditioning with climate control, sport suspension with Bilstein shocks, stability control, traction control, limited-slip differential, cloth top, mesh grille with chrome trim, silver seatback bars, premium dash trim, driver's seat height adjuster, exterior temperature gauge, and trip computer.

The GT adds power retractable hard top, xenon headlamps, six-CD Bose stereo, Sirius satellite radio, Bluetooth hands-free connectivity, auto-dimming rearview mirror, garage door opener, Intelligent Key with keyless start, and heated adjustable leather seats.