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Understand that I am not an unbiased reporter regurgitating the facts of the new 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata specifications. I fell in love with the Miata long ago and my personal black 1994 Miata waits longingly in the garage like an anxious puppy ready for a romp. So when I found out that I was getting the newly redesigned 2006 Miata, I could hardly contain my enthusiasm. The 17 years since Mazda introduced the 1989 Miata has made it the best selling two-seat convertible sports car in history. Closing in on three quarters of a million units the Miata is admired around the world for it's affordable fun-factor. Miata owners may drive their car everyday but this is much more than a daily driver. To own a Miata and drive with the top down is to experience oneness with your machine and nature that few other vehicles can provide. There are other great roadsters offering more horsepower, luxury and technology, but none as affordable and accessible than the Mazda Miata. General Motors is in the process of introducing the Pontiac Solstice and Saturn Sky, priced in the low $20K range to compete with the Miata. But dealers tell me that prices will be at a premium as availability will be extremely limited. The 2006 Mazda MX5 Miata can be driven today. Therefore, no other car can be purchased for so little, yet offer so much fun than the top down feeling of a Mazda Miata. Completely redesigned, the new Miata stays true to its compact size and elegant simplicity defining the Miata tradition. Growing 1.6 inches in length and width the Miata retains it's compact size allowing the driver to truly feel "at one" with the car. With a curb weight of slightly over 2,400 pounds the 2006 Miata maintains an almost perfect 50/50 weight distribution with two passengers in the cockpit. Every body panel is new for 2006 but this is still a true Miata. The inverted power bulge in the hood gives a distinctive look behind the projector headlights. Sharply flared fenders outline the 16 or 17 inch wheels built for both show and go. Lines are much more rounded than in the two previous Miata incarnations but this version remains true to the Miata style. Replacing the 1.8 Liter engine with the 2.0 Liter increased the horsepower to a very peppy 170 Horsepower and 140 lb. ft. of torque. A Miata with anything but a manual transmission is a sin to many, but I was very impressed with the new six-speed automatic complete with paddle shifting. Clutchless shifting was crisp and accurate throughout all gears and the new engine provided adequate power to support the automatic transmission. So while I still prefer a manual for this car, the automatic is finally an exciting option. I do miss the tuned exhaust sound on my original Miata. A Mazda press release details deliberations that went into creating the complex musical harmonies produced by the new 2006 Miata. But in spite of their efforts, they just didn't get it right. This larger engine with the dual tipped exhaust pipes simply doesn't create the same deep throaty voice of my original Miata. There are five models for the 2006 Mazda MX5 Miata starting out with a very basic Club Spec version is available for $20,435, but most buyers will want at least the $21,435 base MX5 Miata. Touring, Sport, Grand Touring and even the 3rd Generation Limited Edition models are available. Higher end packages include such high end features as Smart Key technology where you can keep the key in your pocket or purse and Dynamic Stability Control with Traction Control. Navigation and Bluetooth connectivity remain unavailable. The 2006 Mazda MX5 Miata remains almost perfect. Compact enough to fit like a glove the Miata has room enough for a large driver. Priced in the low $20's, it remains a true bargain for sports car lovers. Satisfying power combined with road handling finesse the new 2006 Mazda MX5 Miata will continue to set the standard for roadster fun.
2006 Mazda MX5 Miata Sport
2.0 Liter 16 Valve I4 Engine EPA Estimated 24 City, 30 Highway MPG MSRP as tested $23.995 Additional Web only Information and Resources For Additional Reviews: |
©2005 - Stan Risener