Mazda MX-5 Miata

The fourth-generation MX-5 Miata debuted for 2016 wearing a more aggressive look than its predecessors, with squinty headlights, sharper body angles and a slightly wider and lower stance. Extensive use of aluminum helped the new car shed about 150 pounds compared to the outgoing model. The SkyActiv 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine made 155 horsepower, and a much-improved interior included new safety and technology features. A Targa-style retractable-hardtop version named RF (for Retractable Fastback) was added for 2017. A 2019 refresh brought several internal improvements, including a revamped engine (now with 181 hp), revamped muffler for a snarkier exhaust note and a tilt/telescopic steering column in place of the previous tilt-only unit. Mazda also celebrated the Miata’s 30th anniversary with a specially trimmed limited-edition model in exclusive Racing Orange paint.

The Miata got a clean-sheet redesign for 2006 that made it a bit bigger and more powerful than before. The MX-5 name was officially added to the U.S. model (to match the car’s name in other parts of the world), but most Americans still called it just “Miata.” The previous 142-horsepower, 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine was replaced by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder that made 170 hp with the five- or six-speed manual transmission and 166 hp with the six-speed automatic. A power retractable hardtop variant arrived for 2007, and 2009 brought a refresh that included revised styling and an updated interior.

After skipping the 1998 model year, the Miata returned in redesigned form for 1999 to kick off its second generation. The new car’s profile and overall dimensions were basically unchanged from the original, but fixed headlamps replaced the previous retractable units, which gave the front-end styling a more contemporary look. The 140-horsepower, 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine could be paired with a five-speed manual transmission or four-speed automatic; the special-edition 10th-anniversary model got a six-speed manual. A higher-performance Mazdaspeed variant was offered for 2004 and 2005; it made 178 horsepower and was equipped with a specially tuned suspension and 17-inch wheels.