2006 Mazda MX-5 Road Test

There are only 3,500 Limited Edition MX-5s distributed worldwide, and I had the chance to drive 0072. (Photo: Alexandra Straub,Canadian Auto Press)

Impressive as the facts and details are about the new MX-5, the driving experience is hands down fantastic. From the moment I dropped the clutch on the 6-speed manual transmission, to the last turn of the driver's route, it was sheer fun. Mazda provided me with two top-of-the-line testers, my first being the 3rd Generation Limited model, which retails at an MSRP of $34,495 and includes such amenities as its exclusive Velocity Red Mica exterior colour, unique 17" alloy wheels, a premium Bose audio system with 7-speakers including 2 tweeters with AudioPilot noise compensation technology, silver-trimmed windshield frame, heated red leather seats and more. There are only 3,500 units distributed worldwide for this edition, and I had the chance to drive 0072, although production model 0001 was on display. What a treat.

Although the 3rd Generation Limited comes with exclusive features, each trim level of MX-5, and there are 3 including GX, GS and GT, comes with the same rip-roaring, highly-responsive front-mounted MZR, 2.0L, 16-valve, DOHC I-4 engine that produces 170 horsepower at 6,700 rpm and 140 lb-ft of torque at 5,000 rpm, and sends the power down to the rear wheels. The shift from a 1.8L to a 2.0L engine boosts output by 28 horsepower and increases torque by 15 lb-ft. The base GX model comes with a 5-speed manual transmission (the other 2 trims offer standard 6-speed manuals,

The shift from a 1.8L to a 2.0L engine boosts output from 142 to 170 horsepower. (Photo: Alexandra Straub, Canadian Auto Press)

including the Limited), or an optional 6-speed automatic transmission ($1,200). The GT trim also offers a 6-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters for an additional $1,255.

As much as I like the option of having and automatic transmission, it's the 6-speed manual all the way for me baby. The clutch pedal is ideally placed allowing for precise and quick heel-and-toe shifting. It also moves in and out fluidly, and isn't so sporty that it's stiff as a board, and the gear ratios are close, again allowing for quick shifts -- the leather-wrapped shift knob is a nice touch too. And along with that is a leather-wrapped 3-spoke steering wheel offered in all trim levels, therefore life in the fast land couldn't be more comfortable.