#2023MazdaMX5Miata

Fun in the Sun: Mazda MX-5 Miata and Mini Cooper S Convertible

What else can be said about the most enduring symbol of semi-affordable droptop motoring? We’ve driven the Miata a few times since the “ND2” facelift of 2019 brought a bump in power and tweaked the chassis, and it flat-out refuses to disappoint. The little 2.0-liter four-pot is still a sweetheart, with sharp throttle response and a willingness to rev well past 7,000 rpm. In America, Mazda has cut the automatic transmission from most of the Miata’s trim levels these days, and that’s good, because the slick six-speed manual is a joy to row. The throws are short and direct, while the clutch pedal is silly easy to operate.