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2013 Mazda MX-5 Preview

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Justin Pritchard
Mazda's convertible bestseller updated for 2013
Price Range: $29,250 and up

Description: Thanks to a finely honed recipe consisting of equal parts lightweight engineering, peppy powerplants and agile, dynamic and track-ready handling, the Mazda MX-5 enters 2013 just as popular as ever. Since 1989, this best-selling sports roadster has been a popular item for how simply, purely and efficiently it captures the joy of open-topped motoring.

2013 Mazda MX-5

A slew of enhancements, grade-level content revisions and cosmetic updates are applied for the 2013 model year as well, making the MX-5 an even more appealing overall package.

All models are two-seat convertibles, featuring either a simple, fast-acting manual cloth roof, or a motorized Power Retractable Hardtop (PRHT) unit comprised of composite panels. Both roof assemblies fold compactly into their own specially designed storage spaces, leaving the 150 litres of trunk space untouched.

Drivetrain:
All MX-5 models are powered by a proven and robustly built MZR-series 2.0L 4-cylinder dual-cam powerplant that generates 167 horsepower when paired with a manual transmission. An automatic with paddle-shift control is available for drivers who prefer not to shift their own gears.

The MZR powerplant at the heart of the 2013 Mazda MX-5 is track validated, fuel-efficient and noted for its eager mid- and high-rpm pull. All models are rear-wheel drive, and most get a Limited Slip Differential (LSD) for optimal power delivery in all driving situations.

Consider it if: fuel efficient, sensible and affordable fun are deliverables required of your next sports car. The MX-5’s modest power and light weight mean it’s great on fuel while still being a blast to drive. Engineered from square one as a drop-top, the 2013 Mazda MX-5’s stiff chassis encourages high handling limits. This is also an ideal car for someone interested in participating in motorsports.

Skip it if: you need a rear seat, or if you need more than 167 horsepower. Performance should prove pleasing for most shoppers, though no up-level engine is available.

Other Notes: Power accessories, xenon lights, satellite radio, a Bose audio system, and heated leather seats are all available to enhance long-haul comfort. Automatic climate control furthers that goal. A wide range of dealer accessories is available, too.

All models get an anti-theft alarm, dual front airbags, side-impact door beams, side airbags, and seatbelt pretensioners with force limiters. At-hand storage space is surprisingly generous, too.

Thanks to “best practices” learned through years of engineering lightweight sports cars, Mazda’s MX-5 boasts a virtually perfect weight balance between the front and rear axles which results in more stable, predictable handling at the limit, and a feeling of increased agility all around.

Don’t Miss: the aerodynamic “barrier” that forms over the top of the MX-5 at speed, trapping warm air in the car when the roof is stored away. Combined with a powerful heater that features special vents for roof-off operation, sub-zero topless driving is possible without heavy clothing.

The Bose stereo self-adjusts its equalizer to fine-tune audio delivery between top-up and top-down modes.

Billstein shocks and a sports suspension calibration are standard on most Mazda MX-5 models.

The MX-5 GS gets its hardtop lid painted in gloss black for a unique look.

2013 Mazda MX-5  front 3/4 view
Photo: Mazda


Justin Pritchard
Justin Pritchard
Automotive expert
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