2006 Mazda MX-5 (Photo: Mathieu St-Pierre)

The chassis of the MX-5 displays amazing rigidity, more so than the second generation (which was also very stiff). The all-new car's ethos is: "jinba ittai". It means that the rider and the horse are as one. This saying perfectly reflects the relationship between the driver and the car when they are chewing up tarmac together. The most important element for this bond to work is communication. Well, the MX-5 has tons to say. Be it through the steering wheel that directly transmits everything that the tires are going through or by means of the definite feeling of near limitless grip and adherence from the same tires, the Mx-5 is always talking to the driver. A predictable suspension which maintains total control is also part of the equation.

The Michelin Pilot Preceda tires impress by how quiet (for a performance tire) they are and by their level of authority in both wet and dry conditions. With the top down and the small wind deflector in place, it is possible to have a normal conversation at 110 km/h. Steering is perfectly balanced and razor sharp. Brakes are superb and the pedal is firm as they also help to keep the conversation alive.

The new 2006 MX-5 is more civilised than the 2005. Overall, it feels more

2006 Mazda MX-5 (Photo: Mathieu St-Pierre)

sophisticated and mature. Its ride is smoother and better adapted to city driving. The mild harshness that I experienced in the 2005 Mazdaspeed had been replaced by a more refined nearly European driving experience. It almost seems polished in comparison.

Safety

The 2006 MX-5 has standard dual front air bags, available side air bags, available ABS brakes and seatbelt pre-tensionners. The 2006 also has available traction and stability control and optional side air bags. The NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) and the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) have yet to crash test the MX-5.

Conclusion

The 2006 MX-5 is a more user-friendly roadster that has not lost any of its incredible driving abilities. The difference is immediately apparent if you drive both roadsters back to back. The new car feels grown up and more mature as a daily driver. The real beauty lies in the fact that it can still be an excellent performer for those that take their 2-seaters to the track. It is almost too good to be true; we can now have our cake and eat it too.

2006 Mazda MX-5 (Photo: Mathieu St-Pierre)

Mazda has decided to drop the "Miata" out of the name of the car and I think it is unfortunate because most people know it as the Miata. The reason is because only here, in North America, do we refer to the MX-5 as the Miata. The rest of the World has always called it "MX-5". Many people ask me every week about the vehicle that I am presently testing. When I would tell them "Mazda MX-5", most had no clue what it was. Very sad indeed.