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2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata First Drive
Model Mix

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TO THE POINT What’s New? Design and engineering goals centered on handling, while adding features and safety equipment made the project a challenge. Power, interior space, and features are all up, while price is down.
Selling Points: Terrific handling, braking, and steering; slick-shifting automatic with paddle shifters; stability control system; bigger interior
Deal Breakers: Notchy manual transmission, trunk space is improved but is still on the small side, limited storage space in the cabin
Our Advice: Upon our first drive of the new 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata, the results look promising.

MEET THE COMPETITION Mini Cooper Convertible
Pontiac Solstice

Click to enlarge. 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata 3rd Generation Limited

Model Mix Mazda sells the 2006 Miata MX-5 in several trims with three different transmissions, uniquely tuned suspensions, exterior and interior options, and even special colors.

Although all 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miatas use the same engine, there are several trim models with three different transmissions, uniquely tuned suspensions, exterior and interior options, and even special colors. Base versions – named Club Spec after the limited-edition models that were sold primarily to SCCA racers – are available only with a five-speed manual transmission behind the universally applied 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder engine. Priced starting at $20,995, Club Spec models include black cloth-trimmed upholstery; a CD player with speed-sensitive volume control and four speakers; power windows, locks, and mirrors; a tilt steering wheel; four-wheel disc brakes with ABS; 16-inch alloy wheels on 205/50 series tires; and a black vinyl top. Club Spec models are only available in Winning Blue Metallic, True Red, and Marble White.

Spending another $1,000 gets you an MX-5 with a leather-wrapped steering wheel and air conditioning as standard equipment, drops the Club Spec designation, and adds five additional colors to the paint palette. Touring models cost another grand at $22,995, and come fitted with cruise control, keyless entry, steering-wheel-mounted audio and cruise controls, silver seatback trim, halogen fog lights, and the option of a six-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters.

At $23,495, the Sport arrives with a standard six-speed manual transmission but the six-speed automatic is optional. Sport models also add a front suspension tower brace, 17-inch wheels with 205/45 series tires and a leather-wrapped shift knob. Grand Touring versions run another $1,500 at $24,995, replacing the vinyl roof with a cloth top and the cloth upholstery with leather seating. Both the top and seats are available in either black or tan. Other additions include a Bose seven-speaker audio system, an alarm and silver door speaker trim.

Both the Sport and Grand Touring models equipped with the six-speed manual may be fitted with a Suspension Package that includes a sport-tuned suspension with upgraded Bilstein shocks and a limited-slip rear differential. A Premium Package, available only on Grand Touring Miatas, includes xenon headlights, dynamic stability control with traction control, the limited slip differential, and a Smart Key keyless ignition system included with the burglar alarm. Run-flat tires measuring 205/45R17 are also available with Sport and Grand Touring vehicles, and as before, a hardtop is optional on any MX-5 Miata.

Mazda will build 750 “3rd Generation Limited” special edition models priced at $27,260. In addition to the full features on the Grand Touring model, Limited versions wear an exclusive Velocity Red exterior color, matching red or black leather interior, special 17-inch wheels, a leather-wrapped parking brake lever, and chrome trim inside and out. The interior also includes a badge with individual numbering. Mazda will build 3,500 of the special edition models for the entire world, with 750 designated for the U.S.


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