What Do You Know about the Mazda MX-5 Miata?

Convertible cars allow the driver to put down the top and let the breeze blow through their hair. Though often associated with the rich and famous, this type of vehicle has been made more affordable by certain car companies, such as Mazda. Are you thinking of looking into a Mazda MX-5 in Kansas City? Here is what you might want to know about this convertible sports car before you visit your dealership.

MX-5 Miata History 

Mazda debuted the MX-5 Miata in 1990. The first generation of the MX-5 featured a five-speed manual transmission and a 1.6-L, four-cylinder engine with 116 hp until 1994 when it received an upgrade to a 1.8-L engine with 128 hp. The first generation was produced until 1997. The second generation would not be released until 1999, however, and would see the addition of an optional four-speed automatic transmission along with its upgrade to a 1.8-L engine with 140 hp. In 2000 a special edition MX-5 was released with a six-speed manual that would become a permanent option in 2001. The engine would also receive an upgrade in 2001 to 142 hp. In 2004 a turbocharged MX-5 became available offering 178 hp. The current third generation arrived in 2006.

2014 MX-5 Miata 

The 2014 MX-5 Miata is still a two-seat, sport convertible now with a 2.0-L four-cylinder engine with 167 hp when paired with the five- or six-speed manual transmission, and 158 hp when paired with the six-speed automatic transmission. The five-speed manual offers 22 mpg for city and 28 mpg for highway, while both six-speed transmissions average 21 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. This rear-wheel drive vehicle also has the option of a soft top or a power retractable hard top, as well as Sport, Club, and Grand Touring trim levels. Standard features include 16-inch wheels, power windows, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, satellite radio, and an auxiliary port. Upgrading to the higher trim levels on a Mazda MX-5 in Kansas City offers such features as automatic climate control, power door locks, cruise control, remote keyless entry, and a trip computer. Some of the standard safety features found on the MX-5 Miata include front and side impact air bags, passenger detection air bag sensors, a tire puncture repair kit, dynamic stability control, and a traction control system.