2009 Mazda MX-5 GT PRHT Review (video)

It has to be admitted: I have an abnormal love affair with the Mazda MX-5. Not for the convertible roof, long history or even the stand-out (albeit bubbly) styling.

Beauty is on the inside, they say. And boy, is it ever. In many regards, this is a perfect sports car: very fun to drive, very easy on fuel, quick, nimble and racetrack-ready.

If you’ve ever thought the MX-5 came off as a bit too cartoony, the latest facelift will grow on you.

A new face
This year, designers have dialed down some of the cuteness and dialed up some more aggression. There are new wheels, a new fascia, new taillamps and less roundness to the car’s face. If you’ve ever thought the MX-5 came off as a bit too cartoony, the latest facelift will grow on you.

It’s one of numerous upgrades. Mazda’s worked to freshen the MX-5 for 2009 while addressing some common issues taken by owners and press to date. It’s all done carefully, so as not to upset the underlying character.

A new snarl for the engine
The latest 2.0 litre MZR engine delivered adequate motivation, but it could be described as a touch short on sound effects-- not to mention a bit rev-happy at speed.

The fix? Some taller gearing for lower highway-speed RPM’s and a clever new intake system. By attaching a so-called ‘Induction Sound Enhancer’ (ISE) to the intake, the engine’s snarl is projected towards the driver, giving the MX-5 a bit more bark.

The ISE basically consists of some extra intake plumbing and a flapper-valve, though it generates a tuner-inspired note that resonates when your right foot drops.

Redline has been raised past the 7,000 RPM mark, and the tester also benefitted from a super-slick short-throw six-speed manual transmission. No enormous drivetrain changes, but the upgrades are sure to be appreciated nonetheless.

Still no turbocharged ‘Mazdaspeed’ variant yet, though.

The ISE basically consists of some extra intake plumbing and a flapper-valve.