Jun 18, 2015

In keeping with a 25-year tradition as the best-selling roadster of all-time, the newly redesigned 2016 Mazda Miata offers a degree of driving pleasure that only a lightweight sports car can. Despite undergoing a number of design and style upgrades, the new Miata remains true to its pedigree which was inspired by iconic roadsters from British automakers like Austin Healy, MGB, and Lotus.

Eye Catching Exterior

Immediately evident in the exterior aesthetic is a wider and more sculpted outline that has a lower center of gravity than that of previous models. “The re-design of the new MX-5 meant finding a balance between classic roadster styling and a new, modern take on design,” said Derek Jenkins, the Mazda Design Director who hosted the unveiling of the new Miata. “But in the new car we hopefully have found that balance with a design that is dramatic yet still reminiscent of the original concept.” The front end is not only sharper and more dramatic, but also begins much closer to the ground. The larger grille is flanked by stunning tapered headlights and chiseled duct openings. The entire package presents the aggressive stance of a Ford Mustang, combined with the sleek long lines of a BMW Z4, and the low roof line of a Honda S2000, while maintaining its own distinctive identity. Mazda has also trimmed 220-pounds from the gross vehicle weight of the previous model while incorporating more hip room and a dramatically tapered rear deck.

Improved Handling

The Mazda Miata has always been recognized for its superior handling, but the 2016 Miata has improved upon what some driving enthusiasts have called perfection. Beginning with a more balanced approach that offers optimum weight distribution; the new MX-5 should offer markedly improved stability and handling capabilities. Up front, the suspension is still of the double wishbone variety, but a multilink setup is new for the rear. An electrically assisted rack-and-pinion steering system will be standard equipment for the new Miata. These cars were already more fun to drive than a barrel of monkeys. We can’t wait to see how modern technology has enhanced the Miata driving experience. The MX-5 will be coming to our dealership this fall, but contact us today to reserve yours!

A More Modern Interior

The interior quality of the 2016 Mazda MX-5 Miata seems to be a significant improvement over previous models. Upgrades in material quality and component arrangement results in a comfortable feel combined with a secure posture aimed at the driving enthusiast. “The interior of the new MX-5 is nicely finished out but very much driver focused,” states Jenkins. The 2016 Miata will also feature an infotainment system with a centrally located color display screen for the first time.

Standard Features

Alloy wheels with performance rated tires, variable intermittent windshield wipers, a rear defogger, air conditioning, a premium audio system (with 6-speakers, speed sensitive volume control, and Bluetooth wireless data link), dual vanity mirrors, cruise control, tilt steering column, a leather wrapped steering wheel (with audio and cruise controls), 1-touch power windows, and remote keyless door locks are among the standard features offered on the redesigned Miata.

Under the Hood

Mazda will utilize innovative SKYACTIV technology in order to retain a perfect balance between performance and efficiency. The 2.0-liter DOHC 16-valve inline four-cylinder engine is projected to make 155-horsepower and 148 lb.-ft. of torque while propelling the new Miata to EPA fuel economy ratings of 27 mpg city and 34 mpg highway. The drivetrain is of a rear-wheel configuration that features a close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission (a 6-speed automatic transmission is also available).

A Safe Bet

Standard safety features for the 2016 Mazda MX-5 Miata will include four-wheel disc brakes (with ventilated front and solid rear rotors), a 4-wheel antilock braking system, mitigated brake assist, daytime running lamps, an engine immobilizer, electronic stability and traction control, an electronic tire pressure monitoring system, LED headlamps, side-mounted airbags, and a driver headrest protection chamber.

The all-new 2016 Mazda MX-5 Miata is scheduled to hit the Mazda of South Charlotte showroom in September, 2015.