The 2006 Miata model is the first to be redesigned from the ground up. It's got more of everything: it's larger, heavier, roomier, and more luxurious. Despite all the added bulk and features, the Miata retains its sports-car feel: the driver still feels the road, the gears, and the acceleration. Mazda has managed to significantly improve the Miata without sacrificing any of the qualities that made it so popular.
Originally offered with a single engine choice, a single transmission choice and only three colors, the 2006 Miata MX-5 offers 6 trim styles, from the basic Club Spec model to the top-of-the-line Limited Edition, which offers a six-speed manual gearbox, black or tan leather seats, a cloth top, a seven-speaker Bose audio system and many other options, including a six-speed automatic transmission. By contrast, the lower end model offers a standard five-speed gearbox, black cloth seats and a vinyl top.
The six trim styles are: Club Spec, Base, Touring, Sport, Grand Touring and Limited. The Club Spec, a low-cost model aimed at enthusiasts on a budget, the Club Spec comes with a five-speed manual transmission, a black vinyl convertible top, 16-inch alloy wheels, ABS, side airbags, a tilt steering wheel, a CD player, and power windows and mirrors. The more premium models add a host of features: air conditioning, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, fog lamps, cruise control, keyless entry, steering wheel-mounted audio controls and power door locks and more.
The MX-5 offers 2.0-liter, inline four-cylinder engine producing 170 horsepower at 6,700 rpm and 140 pound-feet of torque at 5,000 rpm. The Club Spec, base and Touring trims use a five-speed manual transmission to drive the rear wheels; A six-speed manual greets buyers in the Sport, Grand Touring and Limited models.
Also available for the Touring, Sport and Grand Touring trims is a six-speed automatic, although moving from manual to automatic robs you of some horsepower.
The roomier cockpit is still sports-car snug. The design is simple and elegant, and the manual top is easily raised and lowered from the driver's seat.
Standard safety features include Four-wheel disc brakes, ABS and side airbags. The Grand Touring model offers available Stability control and HID headlights.
All in all, the 2006 Mazda Miata MX-5 is a delight to drive.
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