Model year 2009 marked the Mazda MX-5’s twentieth anniversary.  Although it's seen a few redesigns since its introduction two

Subtle updates to Mazda's now classic MX-5 roadster keep it fresh and current. (Photo: Mazda)

decades ago, the MX-5 (formerly known as the Miata) remains an instantly recognizable automotive icon.  Considering that among cars twenty is well into middle age, if not senior citizen-hood, Mazda's sporty roadster is looking pretty good. 

The MX-5 celebrated its birthday with a total makeover that included new styling, new colours and interior trim, not to mention a stronger, more efficient engine.  With all of those freshened items, the MX-5 cruises into 2010 with only detail changes, keeping it one of the premier affordable roadsters. 

The MX-5’s long hood-short deck sports car proportions are classic, and the car's rounded shape is reminiscent of a little speedboat.  New styling elements include a larger, more aggressive cut to the air intake,

With Pontiac's Solstice and Saturn's Sky gone, the MX-5 is the sole survivor in the entry-level roadster segment. (Photo: Mazda)

a distinctive five-point grille and a bigger Mazda logo riding above it.  The fender flares and tapered nose remind of big brother RX-8, and the taillights incorporate silver accent elements.  Twin roll hoops behind the front seats are visible with the top down, and their satin silver trim is reminiscent of classic sports-racers. 

The minimalist cockpit is built for two, and a handsome piano-black panel decorates the T-shaped dash.  Minor revisions improve comfort and space usage.  Sirius Satellite Radio and Bluetooth connectivity are now available, as are heated leather seats and a seven-speaker Bose sound system.  The MX-5 is available with a traditional ragtop, or practical retractable hardtop.  Both the hard and soft tops raise and lower easily; the Z-fold soft top is designed to be stowed with one hand, and

The MX-5's interior has come a long way since the original, with premium-like quality and features. (Photo: Mazda)

the power-operated hard top cycles in just twelve seconds.  When underway with the top down, the cabin is generally free of buffeting thanks to clever air management around the windshield and rear of the car.

Under the lightweight aluminum hood, the 2.0-litre double overhead cam four-cylinder engine features variable valve timing, a new forged crankshaft and connecting rods coupled with redesigned pistons and an oil cooler.  These changes raise the redline to 7,200 rpm in manual transmission-equipped models, and output has increased to 167 horsepower.  While such numbers aren’t as impressive as those from big-engine supercars, the MX-5 doesn’t have as much weight to muscle around. 

The MX-5's light weight makes it a joy to fling through the corners. (Photo: Mazda)

Curb weight is only just over 1,100 kilos (about 2,500 pounds), so the MX-5 is capable of surprising performance in spite of having only 167 horses.  A classic sports car sound is still a part of the package as well, thanks to a specially tuned intake manifold with a unique “Induction Sound Enhancer” that projects the engine's natural induction noises to a spot just in front of the cowl for maximum auditory pleasure.  An ultra short-throw five-speed manual transmission is standard equipment, with a six-speed manual and a paddle-shifted six-speed automatic available. 

The MX-5 Miata’s lightweight double wishbone front suspension is the stuff of racecars,

Optional retractable hardtop gives the MX-5 year-round coupe-like functionality. (Photo: Mazda)

and the multi-link rear allows a degree of throttle steer that is designed to delight enthusiasts.  The engine is mounted far back in the chassis, offering neutral balance.  Traction control and stability control are available as well, and for 2009 they were retuned with the intent of making them less intrusive during spirited driving.  For drivers who plan to take the MX-5 to the track, the optional limited-slip differential, front strut tower brace, Bilstein shock absorbers and the aforementioned stability and traction control come with GS trim and help to sharpen the already excellent handling. 

Twenty

Small but serviceable trunk adds enough storage for weekend getaways with the top down. (Photo: Mazda)

years is a significant milestone for any car, and it looks like the MX-5 is prepared to be with us for another two decades.  It's not just a wind-in-the-hair roadster; this car has also got a serious sporting record, participating in numerous racing series worldwide.  It's not often that a vehicle with this much pedigree is as affordable as the MX-5.  Pricing starts at $28,995 for the MX-5 GX with a five-speed manual transmission.  A track-ready MX-5 GS model with six-speed manual transmission and Suspension Package stickers for $33,495, while the top-line luxury-oriented GT with its standard retractable hard top goes out the door for $39,995.