The Mazda MX-5 Miata, after more than 20 years, continues to, provide sports car enthusiasts with a pure and simple, fun-focused roadster at an affordable price. The experts at the Guiness Book of World Records, proclaim the MX-5 to be the most popular two-seat convertible sports car in the world, with more than 900,000 produced. Is Miata by any other designation still a Miata? Definitely! The latest generation of the popular roadster now referred to as the MX-5, literally revived open-air motoring on our shores, and now happens to be better than ever. Did it make sense to drop the Miata name reference that has built such positive brand equity? Probably not, but in the final analysis, true aficionados will still revert to using the Miata name when talking about the MX-5 anyway.

The Miata was first introduced at the Chicago Auto Show in February, 1989, and the focus of the car remains on driving that is FUN and exhilarating. The emphasis in all phases of development for every generation MX-5 has been “Jinba Itai”, which translates into western culture terminology as ” Horse and Rider as One”. Key elemental issues in building the MX-5 continue to be: a body structure utilizing new weight-saving technologies and materials that improve crashworthiness while increasing rigidity; freshened interior and exterior styling and design that remain true to the car’s original concept with slightly enlarged exterior dimensions that yield more room for taller occupants with greater comfort and safety; livelier, linear engines; better steering response; improved suspension componentry and enhanced braking systems; and finally, workmanship indicative of higher quality with added feature content.

At first glance from a distance, the MX-5 doesn’t appear to be radically different from its forbears. Upon closer scrutiny however, even though it is an evolutionary advancement of the 2-seat icon, it seems to continually evolve into a new vehicle done in the basic style and concept of the original. The synergy of the original remains, with all elements continually revised for the better.

As if that weren’t enough, in 2008, Mazda took the concept of the two-seat roadster and advanced it to the next level of refinement by adding a Power Retractable Hardtop convertible design to its model offering. The MX-5 Power Retractable Hard Top (PRHT) features a roof consisting of three major parts—a front section, a middle section, and the rear window—which hinge and move tonest atop one another in exactly the same space as the soft top. No trunk space is sacrificed, and the top mechanism only adds 78 pounds over the cloth top model’s weight.

The two roof sections fold in clamshell fashion; with the window separating from the middle section and moving forward to the in-between space, descending into the same storage well located above the rear axle and the fuel tank where the soft top would have resided. A deck cover mates with the top when closed, shrouding the folded top from view. A center-locking handle secures the PRHT to the windshield header. Two buttons positioned on the instrument panel operate the top – one for up, the other for down, activating four small, quiet-running electric motors—two for the folding hard top, two for raising and lowering the deck cover. The entire operation takes a mere 12 seconds, but the motor must be running with the transmission in neutral (or Park with the automatic transmission), the brake applied and the header latch released – windows lower partially automatically, but remain in that position and won’t function further until the top operation is completed. The PRHT offers the security of a Coupe when closed, is certainly more convenient than a removable hardtop and is the fastest power-operated retractable hard top in the U.S. An indicator lamp and warning beep advises the driver when the top operation is complete. As with the soft-top MX-5, the PRHT edition provides a wind deflector to block cockpit drafts.

Power is still provided by a 2.0-liter DOHC, 16-valve VVT inline four-cylinder engine that generates 167 horsepower and 140 pound feet of torque routed through either a six-speed short-throw manual gearbox as standard, or optional 6-speed automatic transmission with steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters, to the rear wheels. The engine is longitudinally mounted forward, driving the rear wheels.

My latest test 2012 Mazda MX-5 PRHT was finished in a Crystal White Pearl (metallic) exterior, with a Gloss black top and mirror caps, and a complementing Black interior. The base price was set at $28,660. while the optional features and equipment and Delivery, processing and handling charge bumped the final sticker to $33,823.

SUMMARY:  The 2012 Mazda Miata PRHT (Oops, MX-5) has lost absolutely none of its appeal. In fact, there are virtually no changes from last year’s model except in the option change department – the Dynamic Stability Control and Traction Control have been removed from the optional premium package and are now standard fare and the diminutive roadster has, in essence, gained a higher status across the board. The 6-speed manual gearbox delivers a positive response in the driving experience without question.

Acceleration, while perhaps not blistering to some, is quick enough, even if the engine is slightly on the “buzzy” side when prodded with gusto, but it doesn’t rate as offensive at all. A throatier note from the four-banger as well as from the exhaust would surely contribute considerably to even wider smiles and perhaps even a little giggling.   Handling is crisp and precise with pleasing throttle steer properties, and the car exhibits a very nice front to rear balance.

The biggest plus for me in driving the MX-5, was the added interior volume that accommodates my 6’4″ frame more readily than before. The trunk capacity was increased by four percent over that of the second generation. It’s still not huge, mind you, especially with the top down, but I was able to stash two full size bags and a full-face motorcycle helmet without a problem.

  The MX-5 remains a true sports car with heart in conjunction with Mazda’s “Zoom-Zoom” spirit.  In my mind, it’s still really a Miata, (MX-5 or not) regardless of the top configuration. Kudos for the genuine sports car feel and looks, the slick, fast operating retractable hardtop and the totally adequate and comfortable interior accommodations for two. Essentially, the 2012 MX-5 Miata PRHT is race ready off the showroom floor. Okay, you will probably need to add a roll bar and five-point harness.

SPECIFICATIONS: Mazda MX-5 Miata PRHT-‘12

Base Price:                           $28,660.

Price as Tested:                        $33,823.

Engine Type and Size:            2.0-liter DOHC, 16-valve Inline VVT four-cylinder with multi-port fuel injection.

Horsepower (bhp):                        167            @ 7,000            rpm (158 w/ 6AT @ 6,700 rpm).

Torque (ft./ lbs.):                        140            @ 5,000            rpm

Transmission:                        Six-speed short-throw manual.

Drive Train:            Longitudinally mounted front engine / Rear-Wheel drive.

Suspension:            Front – Double wishbone with forged aluminum control arms, gas-filled twin tube shock absorbers and stabilizer bar.

Rear - Multilink with tubular control arms and aluminum knuckle, gas-filled shock absorbers and stabilizer bar.

Brakes:            Power-assisted hydraulic four-wheel discs (vented front) with ABS, EBD.

Tires:            Bridgestone Potenza 205/45 R17 84W mounted on 5-“V”-spoke black painted alloy wheels.

Wheelbase:                                      91.7            inches

Length Overall:                        157.3            inches

Width:                                                  67.7            inches

Height:                                      49.4            inches

Curb Weight:                                    2,562            lbs.

Fuel Capacity:                          12.7            gallons

EPA Mileage Estimates:              21            mpg city / 28            mpg highway

Drag Coefficient:                        0.32

0 – 60 mph:                                    Not tested.

When it comes to vehicle usefulness, it’s impossible to find a vehicle with the capacity, comfort and capabilities of a minivan.  Unfortunately, minivans have been painted with the “soccer mom” stigma that has turned many trendy families away in favor of sport utes or more recently crossovers.

Well, it’s time to re-think buying the minivan.  There are some great values on the market from Chrysler, Toyota, Honda, Nissan and Kia, but the one that stands out from the herd, is the Mazda5, because it’s so different and so much fun to drive.

It’s also the only minivan, that’s still mini.  At 180-inches long, it is about the same length as a Toyota Corolla and Honda CR-V.  It’s nearly two feet shorter than the iconic Chrysler Town and Country van and weighs about1,300 poundsless.

Aside from the demur size, the Mazda has the highest fun to drive quotient and it sports an EPA fuel economy rating of 21 mpg city and 28 mpg highway, making it the best, in the segment.  And for enthusiasts that lust for manual transmissions, the Mazda5 Sport is available with a six-speed manual transmission.

All-new for 2012, the Mazda5 has a cutting edge styling, which Mazda calls “Seductive Smartness.”  The vehicle silhouette is similar to the original with its dramatically laid back windshield and the roofline that tapers down toward the rear.  What is dramatically different is the new Mazda family broad smiley face grille and a unique wave-like pattern stamped into the side panels.  At a distance the waves first looked like graphics, but they are very much real and stamped into the steel doors.  The result is a dramatic and sophisticated “Nagare flow design language” which is said to represent the forces of wind and water…and it works creating a unique look.  The design also produces a super slippery 0.30 coefficient of drag.  No other van has the same styling drama.

         Inside the same Nagare design language is used on the instrument panel, trim, seats and even the seat fabrics.  The result is a rich, sporty looking interior that is both comfortable with supportive seats for longer trips.  Seating is in a 2-2-2 configuration, with the third row best suited for smaller children. Nevertheless, four passengers in individual bucket seats can be very comfortable and have room for up to 44 cubic feet of cargo with the third row seat folded and significantly more with the middle seats folded flat.  Interior space is maximized, too, with features like hidden storage spaces under the middle seats and spacious storage space between the first and second row seats.

  Unlike the larger minivans, Mazda5 doesn’t have the power sliding side doors and rear hatch.  Rather the lightweight doors slide easily opening and closing with a very light touch.

Powered by the same 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that is used in the Mazda3, Mazda6 and CX-7, the new larger (increased from 2.3-liters to 2.5) Mazda5 engine is rated at 157-hp.  The engine is mated with a standard six-speed manual transmission on the Sport model or an optional five-speed automatic with manual shift control.  The automatic is standard equipment on the Touring and Grand Touring trim levels.

With the new larger engine, 0 to 60 mph acceleration times are dropped by about a second to 9.1 seconds.  That’s about a second or two slower than the larger competitors with V-6 engines, but they take more fuel.  We actually averaged 25.6 mpg during our week driving the Mazda5, that’s 5 to 7 mpg better than the competitors.  That could save you enough money on fuel in a year to make a payment or two.

The Mazda beats all the larger minivans easily in the corners.  It has a strong dose of the Mazda Zoom-Zoom DNA, which includes four-wheel independent suspension and four-wheel disc brakes.  It stays flat and firmly attached to the road with good feedback and a precision feel, more like a sport sedan than a bulky van.  It was also superior in town fighting through traffic or maneuvering through tight parking lots.  The tight 36.7-foot turning radius is a big plus, too.

           The Mazda van comes in three trim levels – Sport, Touring and Grand Touring – with the base price starting at $19,990, including the destination charge, for the Sport.  At that price, the Sport includes the manual transmission, 16-inch alloy wheels, automatic climate control, power windows and locks, keyless entry and cruise control in addition to all the standard safety equipment that’s included on all trim levels.

Step up to the Grand Touring,  model with automatic transmission for $24,720 and the equipment list grows with 17-inch alloy wheels, xenon headlights, leather seating (heated in the front), premium audio with Sirius Satellite Radio, Bluetooth and a few other cosmetic and convenience goodies.  Options are limited to a few cosmetic and convenience upgrades that add only $1,000 if all the option boxes are checked.  The only down side is there is no built-in navigation option.  But on features alone, the Mazda5 Grand Touring gets extra points for its value.

For someone who wants the convenience of a minivan, but doesn’t need seven or eight passenger capacity, the Mazda5 is a winner for $5,000 to $20,000 less than the competition with the added bonus of sporty handling and better fuel economy.

By Barbara & Bill Schaffer

Mazda’s next new technology will debut in September at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show, with the introduction of the all-new CX-5 compact crossover SUV.  Joining the Mazda CX-7 and CX-9 crossovers the CX-5 will be the first vehicle to adopt the full range of Mazda’s latest and greatest SKYACTIV® TECHNOLOGY and new design theme, ‘KODO – Soul of Motion.’

The SKYACTIV® TECHNOLOGY engine is the world’s first gasoline engine for mass produced vehicle to archived a high compression ratio of 14.0:1.  Mazda engineers say the increased compression results in a 15 percent increase in fuel efficiency and torque.

The Mazda CX-5 evolves Mazda’s hallmark fun-to-drive character and will be progressively introduced to global markets from early 2012. Developed around the full range of SKYACTIV® TECHNOLOGY — including all-new Mazda gasoline and diesel engines, manual and automatic transmissions, body and chassis — the CX-5 delivers precise response and a high-quality ride matched with environmental and safety performance.

The engine lineup for the European specification CX-5 will include Mazda’s SKYACTIV®-G 2.0 gasoline engine SKYACTIV®-D 2.2 diesel engine available in Standard Power and High Power versions. Mazda has not yet announced availability of the diesel version in the U.S.

The CX-5 is also the first production model to showcase Mazda’s new design theme, ‘KODO – Soul of Motion’, which was previewed with the Mazda SHINARI and Mazda MINAGI concept cars. Unique themes of KODO design include a prominent new front view with a bolder family face and dynamic styling that conveys a strong sense of vitality and agility.

U.S. model production of the Mazda6 is currently at the AutoAlliance International, Inc. (AAI) plant operated jointly with Ford in Flat Rock, Mich. The joint operation with Ford was started in 1985, and the Mazda6 has been built there since 2002.  The Mazda6 was the first of the brands products to personify the Zoom-Zoom brand message; however the sales of the largest Mazda sedan have declined recently.

The Mazda6, which is known at Atenza in Japan, is currently being built in two other locations:  the Hofu plant in Yamaguchi Prefecture, Japan, and the Mazda plant in Changchun, Jilin province, China.

“Our intention is to transfer production of our next CD-car (mid-size sedan) for North America from AAI and consolidate it at Hofu in order to improve production and investment efficiencies and optimize our business,” said Takashi Yamanouchi, Representative Director and Chairman of the Board, President and CEO of Mazda Motor Corporation. “The decision was made after carefully assessing all risks and opportunities, including global needs, changing demand in North America, and exchange rate exposure. Going forward, Mazda will strive to maintain and grow our business in America.

“The decision to relocate to Hofu and consolidate the production of the next CD-car makes the most sense for our business,” stated Mr. Yamanouchi. “However, we are committed to working with Ford, our joint venture partner in AAI, to identify potential future opportunities for the plant. Mazda and Ford have enjoyed a close relationship for over 30 years. We have collaborated on projects where there are mutual benefits, and both companies remain committed to continuing this strategic partnership.”

Mazda is currently sharing the Mazda5 minivan platform with Ford’s upcoming C-Max Minivan.

The current North American Mazda6 will continue to be built at AAI until the end of its current cycle plan. Mazda is conducting various studies with Ford on the future of AAI and will announce details at the appropriate time.

San Diego –

There are several things that set the Mazda5 apart from other so-called minivans, but the most obvious is its demur size.  At 180-inches long, it is about the same length as a Toyota Corolla and Honda CR-V.  It’s nearly two feet shorter than the iconic Chrysler Town and Country van and weighs about 1,300 pounds less.

The most dramatic change in the second generation Mazda5 is the styling, which Mazda calls “Seductive Smartness.”  The vehicle silhouette is similar to the original with its dramatically laid back windshield and the roofline that tapers down toward the rear.  What is dramatically different is the new Mazda family broad smiley face grille and a unique wave-like pattern stamped into the side panels.  At a distance the waves first looked like graphics, but they are very much real and stamped into the steel doors.  The result is a dramatic and sophisticated “Nagare flow design language” which is said to represent the forces of wind and water…and it works creating a unique and very sophisticated look.  The design also produces a super slippery 0.30 coefficient of drag.  There’s no mass market vehicle that has the style drama of the Mazda5.

Inside the same Nagare design language is used on the instrument panel, trim, seats and even the seat fabrics.  The result is a rich, sporty looking interior that is both comfortable and supportive for longer trips.  Seating is in a 2-2-2 configuration, but the third seat is better suited for children. Nevertheless, four passengers in individual bucket can be very comfortable and have room for up to 44 cubic feet of cargo with the third row seat folded and significantly more with the middle seats folded flat.  Interior space is maximized, too, with features like hidden storage spaces under the middle seats and spacious storage space between the first and second row seats.

Unlike the larger minivans, Mazda5 doesn’t have the power sliding side doors and rear hatch.  Rather the lightweight doors slide easily opening and closing with a very light touch.

Powered by the same 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine as is used in the Mazda3, Mazda6 and CX-7, the new larger (increased from 2.3-liters to 2.5) Mazda5 engine is rated at 157-hp.  The engine is mated with a standard six-speed manual transmission on the Sport model or an optional five-speed automatic with manual shift control.  The automatic is standard equipment on the Touring and Grand Touring trim levels.

With the new larger engine, 0 to 60 mph acceleration times are dropped by about a second to 9.1 seconds.  That’s about a second or two slower than the larger competitors with V-6 engines.  The plus side is the fuel economy, which at 21 mpg city and 28 mpg highway, by the EPA estimate, is as much as 10 mpg better than the competitors in the city and a mile or two per gallon better than most for highway driving.

The Mazda beats all the larger minivans hands down in the corners.  It has a strong dose of the Mazda Zoom-Zoom DNA which includes four-wheel independent suspension and four-wheel disc brakes.  The Mazda5 is a blast to drive quickly through sharp corners and sweeping curves alike.  It stays flat and firmly attached to the road with good feedback and a precision feel, more like a sport sedan than bulky van.  It was also superior in town picking through traffic or maneuvering through a tight parking lot.  The tight 36.7-foot turning radius is a big plus, too.

The Mazda van comes in three trim levels – Sport, Touring and Grand Touring – with the base price starting at $19,990 for the Sport.  At that price, the Sport includes the manual transmission, 16-inch alloy wheels, automatic climate control, power windows and locks, keyless entry and cruise control in addition to all the standard safety equipment that’s included on all trim levels.

Step up to the Grand Touring model with automatic transmission for $24,720 and the equipment list grows with 17-inch alloy wheels, xenon headlights, leather seating (heated in the front), premium audio with Sirius Satellite Radio, Bluetooth and a few other cosmetic and convenience goodies.  Options are limited to a few cosmetic and convenience upgrades that add only $1,000 if all the option boxes are checked.  The only down side is there is no build-in navigation option.  On features alone, the Mazda5 Grand Touring gets extra points for it value.

For someone who wants the convenience of a minivan, but doesn’t need seven or eight passenger capacity, the Mazda5 is a winner for $5,000 to $20,000 less than the competition. The big bonus is the sporty handling and better fuel economy.  This is a minivan I could get excited about.

Bill Schaffer

The CX-5 is derived from the Mazda MINAGI concept shown at the Geneva Motors Show in March and the New Your International Auto Show in April.

The CX-5 will be the first production vehicle to incorporate Mazda’s new design theme, ‘KODO – Soul of Motion’ as debuted on the Mazda SHINARI concept car, as well as the full range of breakthrough SKYACTIV technologies, including engines, transmissions, body and chassis.

The SKYACTIV technologies include the a next-generation highly-efficient direct-injection gasoline engine with the world’s highest compression ratio of 14.0:1 and  the next-generation clean diesel engine with the world’s lowest compression ratio of 14.0:1 (although it’s not know if the diesel will be offered in the U.S.)

The SKYACTIV technologies also include SKYACTIV-Drive: a next-generation highly-efficient automatic transmission, the next-generation manual transmission with a light shift feel, compact size and significantly reduced weight along with a highly-rigid body with outstanding crash safety performance.

SKYACTIV is a blanket term for Mazda’s innovative next-generation technologies that are being developed under the company’s long-term vision for technology development, Sustainable Zoom-Zoom.

The SKYACTIV name is intended to reflect Mazda’s desire to provide driving pleasure as well as outstanding environmental and safety performance in its vehicles. To achieve this goal, Mazda has implemented an internal Building Block Strategy to be completed by 2015. This ambitious strategy involves the comprehensive optimization of Mazda’s base technologies, which determine the core performance of its vehicles, and the progressive introduction of electric devices such as regenerative braking and a hybrid system. All the technologies that are developed based on the Building Block Strategy will fall under the SKYACTIV umbrella.

The first thing that you’re likely to notice about the latest 2012 iteration of the Mazda5 is its innovative and unique design. The Mazda5 is categorized as a multi-activity vehicle, with an exceptional level of versatility, class-leading performance attributes and credible fuel efficiency. It actually defies specific classification – it’s kind of a mini-minivan, but in reality, it’s really much more. Let’s just refer to it as a MAV for the sake of simplicity.

Back to the Mazda5’s key appeal – the Nagare “flow” design language, which is essentially inspired by the elements and beauty of nature, particularly in the forces of wind and water. It displays a look of grace and elegance not found in any other vehicle being produced today. Mazda also refers to the styling philosophy as “Seductive Smartness” – an approach that sets it apart from the box-like images offered by more conventional competitors in the marketplace. The design team of the Mazda5 visualized the overall vehicle image as a single bead of water with ripples left intentionally on the surface, with the body’s lines expressing the flow of motion. The flow starts forward at the front grille and passes smoothly over the headlamps, hood and fenders, continuing over the sides of the body, rear combination lamps and tailgate in a consistent stream. The lines and motifs appear, disappear and reappear in a theme of change and fusion.

The five-point front grille shares the uniquely familiar face found on every Mazda, making it immediately distinguishable as a Mazda product, and lending it a dynamic and sporty expression true to Mazda’s DNA.  The ‘flowing’ lines of the hood and headlamps gather in the center of the grille to create a powerful sense of motion.  And the curved lines that form the mesh pattern adopted for the grille lend the impression that the mesh flows out from the center to the sides, which expresses the essence of Nagare design. Fog lamp bezels were designed to form a continuous line with the side shoulders and wheel arches to present a wide, dynamic image, which blends harmoniously with the gentle S-shaped contour established by the flowing lines off the sides of the front grille and up toward the headlamps.  In addition, the mesh pattern surrounding the fog lamps creates a design that flows back toward the rear of the vehicle.  The deeply sculpted form of the area around the hood and fog lamps gives the front a firm countenance emphasizing its aggressive styling.

The Mazda5’s interior also showcases the Nagare design influence, ranging from the lines above the dials and along the instrument panel to the stitch pattern in the seats and the design of the seat fabric. The overall ambience evokes the feel of a sporty, high-quality cabin, that focuses on the driver, positioning the peak of the meter hood as the tallest point, with all lines flowing from there, comfortably wrapping around the driver.  The instrument panel flows from the cockpit to the center panel and on to the passenger-side of the dash in a rippling effect that suggests a liquid composition. The same flow continues on through the lines of the seat pattern, which connects seamlessly with the second and third row seats, creating a strong sense of unity throughout. The twin deep-set gauges deliver a sporty flair, and the center panel is fitted with chrome plating and silver-trimmed control knobs that create a top quality look.

Okay, that takes care of the visual description of the Mazda5, but in addition to presenting an emotionally appealing design from, the production objective was to make sure that it was fun to drive while also being versatile and practical. The sensual looks and exhilarating performance have no  compromising effect on the packaging. The Mazda5 provides roomy comfort, while being deceptively compact.

A low profile fuel tank, the compact multi-link rear suspension and stepped floor combine to provide a spacious cabin with three rows of seats, which may be configured to accommodate two, three, four five or six passengers. The second row offers separate captain’s chairs that slide, recline and fold flat and feature storage beneath the cushions, with the right middle row seat also providing a fold out basket for additional storage. Third row seats provide a 50/50 split, and can be tipped forward and folded individually to form a flat load area. Even with all seats up, the space behind the third row is large enough to allow stowing a standard-size baby stroller along with all of baby’s accoutrements. Seating is arranged in a theatre-style format.

The 2012 MAZDA5 is available in three levels of trim: an entry-level Sport, the Touring and top-of-the-line Grand Touring. The MAZDA5 Sport is available with either a six-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmission.  The MAZDA5 Touring comes only with a five-speed automatic transmission and takes everything on the MAZDA5 Sport and adds even more goodies, while the Grand Touring model enhances the Touring model’s content by adding a power moonroof, xenon high-intensity discharge (HID) headlights, automatic on/off headlights, heated door mirrors, rain-sensing windshield wipers, anti-theft alarm system, driver’s seat lumbar support adjustment, heated front seats, in-dash 6-disc CD changer, leather-trimmed seats and Sirius^® satellite radio.

Power for all Mazda5 models is provided by a 2.5-liter, DOHC, 16-valve 4-cylinder engine with VVT and electronically controlled fuel injection that delivers 157 horsepower at 6,000 rpm along with 163 pound feet of torque at 4,000 rpm. Transmission choices include either a 6-speed manual gearbox (Mazda5 Sport only) or a five-speed automatic with overdrive. The engine resides up front in an East/West orientation, driving the front wheels.

My test Mazda5 came in Grand Touring trim finished outside in Copper Red Mica and inside in a Sand tone. The base sticker read $23,875 while the addition of a rear bumper guard and Delivery, Processing and Handling fee bumped the final total to $24,720.

SUMMARY: The 2012 Mazda5 represents an almost unbelievable value in an extremely attractive and appealing package. Pricing for the Sport level trim with the manual gearbox starts at $19,990 while the Grand Touring model begins at $23,875 and comes fully loaded at $24,875.

The design is truly an emotional one with the intriguing Nagare design flow offering the innovative wave motion pattern to the side panels, which blend with all of the vehicles other planes and lines with a sweeping continuity. Initially, the thought was that such unusual contours in the sheet metal would prove to be a bodyman’s nightmare, but in fact, the flow pattern is actually easier to match than a flat smooth surface. The “B”, “C” and “D” pillars are all blacked out, projecting a floating roof imagery.

The interior is loaded with ambience and is truly driver oriented, while providing both comfort and support.

Acceleration is surprisingly ample – even abundant for a naturally aspirated 4-cylinder engine, and the handling characteristics are genuinely equivalent to that of a sporty sedan – the vehicle stays flat and planted in challenging, twisty scenarios. Safety features include: ABS, EBD, DSC, TPMS and LATCH.

The 2012 Mazda5 is an outstanding, lifestyle-serving vehicle that is both fun to drive and affordable. The frontal appearance displays Mazda’s “smiley face” grille, which seems most appropriate.

The Mazda MX-5 continues to be the world’s “Best selling two-seater sports car” as production rolls pas the 900,000 mark in February 2011.  This significant milestone was achieved 21 years and 10 months after mass production of the first-generation MX-5 commenced in April 1989. The MX-5 was initially certified by Guinness World Records as the when production reached 531,890 units in May 2000. Guinness updated the record when production passed 700,000 and, later, 800,000 units. Currently, Mazda is reapplying to Guinness World Records to have the record updated to 900,000 units.

During the 1960s and 1970s, numerous lightweight and fun-to-drive sports cars offered nimble handling and free-spirited open-air motoring. In the 1980s, Mazda decided to resurrect this spirit with a new roadster for the modern age. Using the latest engineering techniques, Mazda developed the MX-5 and announced it in February 1989 as a reminder that driving could still be fun despite ever-stricter safety and quality standards. To this day, the MX-5 remains the longest enduring nameplate in Mazda’s global lineup.

Nobuhiro Yamamoto, program manager of the current MX-5, said, “Since Mazda launched the original MX-5, it has undergone two complete product redesigns and a series of upgrades. Its enduring success is due to the strong support it enjoys from MX-5 fans around the world.”

“As we head toward the next production milestone of one million units,” Kanai continued, “Mazda is committed to further evolving the MX-5. We will refine its fun-to-drive character and further enhance its environmental and safety capabilities. As Mazda passes its 91st birthday, we are turning our sights toward our 100th anniversary. In the years ahead, we will continue to cherish the MX-5, alongside its loyal fan base, as the symbol of the Mazda brand.”

With U.S. subcompact sales expected to double in the next two years, Mazda is finally bringing their littlest car to the U.S. after a very successful three-year run in Europe and Asia.

Originally launched in 2007, the Mazda2 has won 48 automotive awards, including “Car of the Year in Japan, New Zealand, Chile, Bulgaria and Greece along with being named the “2008 World Car of the Year” at the New York International Auto Show.

Initially developed by Mazda engineers for the Mazda 2 and the Ford Fiesta, both companies have taken the same vehicle architecture and injected heavy doses of their own DNA with very few component duplications.

Mazda engineers placed a heavy emphasis on cutting weight with the Mazda2 tilting the scales at 2,306 pounds, which is about 150 pounds less than the Fiesta and a chief competitor, the Honda Fit.  The resulting five-door hatchback, even weighs less than Mazda’s signature sports car, the MX-5 or Miata.

Powered by a 100-hp, 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine, the Mazda2 has one of the smallest engines in its class, but thanks to the lighter weight, 0 to 60 mph acceleration times are about the same or faster as the major competitors.  Fuel economy with the five-speed manual transmission is 29 mpg city and 35 mpg highway; we averaged 33.4 mpg during a week of local driving.  The optional four-speed automatic gets 2 mpg less.  Some four-cylinder engines sound tinny or cheap, but the Mazda2 has a solid powerful sound both from the engine itself and the exhaust note.

Even though the automatic transmission was only a four-speed, it is smooth, makes positive shifts and does not leave the car feeling underpowered.  We did, however, prefer the better control offered by the smooth shifting five-speed manual shifter and we like the way the shifters are mounted on a peninsula jutting out of the center stack.

With important controls mounted on and close to the tilt steering wheel and the others tightly grouped in the center stack, the interior is an efficient workspace for the driver.  The stylish fabric seats with patterned insets and contrasting piping set the interior apart from a typical entry-level subcompact.

Mazda’s signature broad smiling grille, sophisticated headlight pods and wedge-shaped body give the 2 a cool almost coupe-like look.

Available in two trim levels, Sport and Touring, the Mazda2 will likely be a top choice of many first-time new car buyers.  The 2011 Sport is priced at $14,730 including the destination charge. Both models are well equipped with features like air conditioning, keyless entry, power windows and other conveniences.

The Touring version is priced at $16,185 adding cruise control, roof-mounted rear spoiler, steering wheel-mounted controls, upgraded interior, premium audio, trip computer and alloy wheels.  Options are limited to a few inexpensive convenience and cosmetic enhancements.

Both models have the full package of safety equipment, which includes six airbags, tire pressure monitors, stability control and traction control.

The Mazda2’s Zoom Zoom attitude was a favorite in our garage mainly because it was a joy to drive, agile and comfortable.

After spending a week in this very enjoyable little car, we could not help but wonder (hope) there might be a MazdaSpeed2 variant in the works.  Like with the MazdaSpeed3, it could take this littlest Mazda to another level.

NWAPA

Imagine driving a very cool new car for a distance between 9 to 25 miles, getting out and then into another very cool car for another 9 to 25 mile leg and then repeating the same routine through 23 cars in a two day period.

NWAPA

Welcome to the 2010 NWAPA (Northwest Automotive Press Association) Run to the Sun held recently in western Washington.  After 23 cars and more than 450 miles of smiles, here are our quick impressions of the MazdaSpeed3 Sport.

We can always count on Mazda for a fun-to-drive car, and the MazdaSpeed3 is one of the brand’s best.  Anyone can put a 263-hp, turbocharged four-cylinder engine in a 3,200-pound front-wheel drive vehicle, but the Mazda engineers inject a shot of Zoom-Zoom to create something that just feels right.  Yes, it’s fast with a 0 to 60 mph time of 5.8 seconds and a track top speed of 155 mph but this little five-door hatchback is loaded with flare and precision, too.  The only downside is some torque steer under hard acceleration.  For under $24,000, ($26,000 with options including a compact navigation system), this car has a universal appeal with a well-organized comfortable interior, excellent performance and a top-level fun factor.

See the other 22 “Run to the Sun” Cars here.