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2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata First Drive
Safety and Technology

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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

Safety and Technology Regardless of the trim chosen, each 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata arrives standard with dual front airbags with a passenger-side deactivation switch, side impact airbags with torso and head protection, and seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters.

Regardless of the trim chosen, each 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata arrives standard with dual front airbags with a passenger-side deactivation switch, side impact airbags with torso and head protection, and seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters. Tire pressure monitoring is included on Sport, Grand Touring, and Limited models, but only when the optional run-flat tires are chosen. In addition to increased torsional rigidity, the Miata’s A-pillars have been strengthened to withstand heavier loads, in the event of a rollover collision. A knee bolster is also designed into the cowl for occupant protection.

The Miata has never been a gadgetry flagship, but features such as stability control, high-intensity discharge headlights, and a limited-slip rear differential are available on the 2006 model. Components such as the six-speed automatic transmission and variable intake valve timing on the engine also support Mazda’s technological advancement with the value-priced MX-5 Miata Club Spec.


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