You are likely tired of reviews that note that you have to drive a car to truly appreciate it.
Let me instead say that when Mazda adopted the “zoom-zoom” marketing terminology as a way to succinctly describe the joy of its cars, it clearly had the Mazda MX-5 in mind.
» Engine: MZR 2.0L DOHC 16-valve 4-cylinder engine with variable valve timing
» Transmission: Manual 5-speed with short-throw shifter (as tested); options include a 6-speed close-ratio with short-throw shifter or 6-speed automatic with steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters.
» MSRP: $23,560 and up
Still called a Miata by car buffs, the MX-5 is everything you want in the around-the-town sports car that catches eyes, hugs roads and maximizes a small cabin. No, no, I’m not in love — OK, maybe I am.
But it’s tough to slip into this car — or even see it parked in your driveway — and not feel as if Cupid’s arrow struck. That certainly happened to me, and I didn’t even initially like the looks of a Miata. Too kiddy-car, I said. Shows how wrong you can be.
But I digress.
Perhaps the first thing to note is that if you want to make quiet entrances and exits, this is not the car to drive. Its tiny size, dual exhausts and, in my case, bright red color catch everyone’s eye. Its look is as subtle as a supermodel.
This is one of those cars that will draw the neighborhood kids to your house as readily as the aroma of cookies baking.
It’s easy to understand the allure. The bold grille, sculpted fenders and smooth lines over the rear wheels give it a modern, bold look.
Inside the cabin is surprisingly roomy with all kinds of nooks and crannies. Plan to have to read the car’s manual for some guidance on where to find the gas tank release (inside the storage space between the front seats) and even the power window levers (on the console between the front seats). When you do that, you’ll appreciate the car’s engineering and design.
What’s even more delightful is the cabin’s coziness. Once inside you feel almost as if you’re in a pod — safe, secure and self-contained with lots of extras including keyless entry, Bluetooth hands-free phone capability and high-tech audio.
Unlike some cars that look great but are disappointing drives, the MX-5 is a great drive. The car hugs the road and glides easily. The 2.0L DOHC 16-valve, 4-cylinder engine churns out 167 horsepower (158 for models with automatic transmission), and 140 pound-feet of torque is just powerful enough to keep it moving along the highway while not keeping you running to the gas pump. The Mazda MX-5 gets a healthy 21 miles per gallon in the city and 28 mpg on the highway.
If you want great zoom-zoom in a sporty, fun car, the Mazda MX-5 should be on your short list.
