2019 Mazda MX-5 Miata Grand Touring Manual $399/mo Lease

PROS

Precise handling; sharp styling; affordability; powerful engine; good fuel economy; convertible; elegant retractable hardtop

MODEL HIGHLIGHTS

Though the MX-5 is pretty quick, its primary purpose is not necessarily about speed. The Miata is all about agility, fun, and engagement, and as a result most of its performance is derived from its lightweight chassis rather than from a big, overpowered engine.

The current MX-5 convertible tips the scales at about 2,300 pounds, incredibly light by today's standards. That lightness combines with rear-wheel drive and a tight turning radius to make the Miata one of the best handling cars on the road.

The MX-5 Miata is offered as a soft-top convertible and, in the RF, as a retractable fastback, with a power-activated hardtop supported by handsome rear buttresses. There is only one engine available on the MX-5, but it's a ge — naturally aspirated 2.0L 4-cylinder that makes 181 horsepower at a screaming 7000 rpm. Power is sent to the rear wheels via a 6-speed manual transmission, though a 6-speed automatic is optional. Thanks to the car's light weight, 181 horsepower is more than enough to get the Miata to 60 mph in under seven seconds. The most impressive result of the car's light curb weight might be the fuel economy, though; the MX-5 is rated at 34 mpg on the highway, meaning that owners can really have their cake and eat it too.

The MX-5 convertible comes in three different trim — port, Club and Grand Tourin — hile the MX-5 RF is offered in Club and Grand Touring.

The Sport trim comes fairly well equipped, a welcome change giving drivers a better balance of comfort while emphasizing focus on the fun of driving. Standard features on the Sport trim include 16-inch alloy wheels, a rearview camera, seven-inch full-color touch screen, keyless entry, cruise control, sporty cloth-upholstered seats, air-conditioning, a six-speaker stereo with USB input, Bluetooth connectivity, a leather shift knob and a manual folding soft top.

The Club trim is more about performance and should be the choice for anyone who wants to take their MX-5 to the track. The Club trim comes standard with 17-inch wheels, shod in wider rubber than those on the Sport trim. The Club trim also includes Bilstein shock absorbers, a limited-slip differential (manual transmission only) some additional aero parts and piano black exterior mirrors. Also included with the Club trim is a Bose nine-speaker stereo complete with seven-inch touchscreen monitor. A set of lightweight, forged BBS wheels covering uprated Brembo brakes with red calipers are optional on the Club trim.

The Grand Touring trim adds just a dash of comfort to the otherwise very focused Miata. Leather seating is included as standard with optional Auburn Napa leather. Automatic climate control, a built-in garage door opener and satellite radio are also included. A host of safety options include a blind spot/lane departure warning system, rain sensing wipers and automatic adaptive head lights.

MODEL NEWS

For 2019, the Mazda MX-5 gets a 17-percent boost in power, up from 155 hp to 181 hp, thanks to revamped internals of its 2.0L 4-cylinder. A telescoping steering wheel makes its debut, as does a rearview camera, and a brown soft top is now available.

VALUE WRITEUP

The MX-5 appeals to so many buyers because of its relative attainability, and the bang-for-buck return it offers. With a base price starting just above $26,000, the MX-5 Miata is one of the least-expensive convertibles on the market, and it undercuts rivals such as the Subaru BR-Z. Meanwhile, the revolutionary MX-5 RF "retractable fastback" slots in for under $32,000.