The top-tier Miata will also lose 7 mm (about a quarter inch) in ride height, the result of shorter, tauter springs. Other suspension enhancements include Bilstein dampers, larger diameter front and rear stabilizer bars plus a strut tower brace spanning the engine bay. Its impressive 5-spoke alloy rims are supplied by Racing Hart, wrapped in R28 205/40R17 80W Toyo Proxes performance tires. The MazdaSpeed Miata's 4-wheel disc brakes feature silver-painted brake calipers while ABS is standard.

Inside, black leather with red stitching covers the steering wheel, shift knob and handbrake lever, color-matched to the black and red cloth seats. (Photo: Mazda)

A distinctive coat of Velocity Red Mica was featured on the SEMA show car, but unlike what was initially an orange-only 4-door MazdaSpeed more than one color will be offered from day one. The alternative hue will be Titanium Gray Metallic. Differentiating exterior trim details include smoked headlamp clusters and a unique front lip spoiler incorporating recessed fog lamps. At the rear is a spoiler extension and larger diameter exhaust tip.

Mazda has made a name for itself by offering state-of-the-art audio systems, and the MazdaSpeed Miata will be no different. (Photo: Mazda)

Inside, black leather with red stitching covers the steering wheel, shift knob and handbrake lever, color-matched to the black and red cloth seats. A familiar Miata instrument cluster features silver-face gauges and the MazdaSpeed logo, which also appears on the foot pedals, rocker plates, floor mats and body-color rearview mirror cap.

In recent history Mazda has made a name for itself by offering state-of-the-art audio systems. While an MP3 player is not part of the Miata package, the 6-speaker 225-watt Bose system boasts a 6-disc CD changer and automatic speed-sensitive volume control.

A black vinyl soft top comes standard, but if the Grand Touring Package is ordered the top becomes a richer looking cloth. Additionally black leather seats feature the same red stitching as the steering wheel, shifter and handbrake. This package is the entire options list.