2008 Mazda MX-5

The exceptional soul of the Mazda MX-5 is described by the expression Jinba Ittai: rider and horse as one. This concept of oneness of motion most aptly depicts the relationship between the driver and a Mazda MX-5 roadster.

Mazda used the rider and horse idiom to create a car that would be universally seen as “lots of fun”. Jinba Ittai is the essence of Zoom-Zoom, and it is what makes the Mazda MX-5 so appealing to sports car enthusiasts.

The Mazda MX-5 demonstrates an ideal balance achieved with minimal weight and propelled by a small but spirited engine. Every aspect of design, mechanical function and dynamic response ultimately contribute to complete driving satisfaction.

The 6 major attributes considered to realize the Jinba Ittai concept:

• Styling (inside and outside)
• Touching (every aspect concerned with the tactile sense)
• Listening (dominated by the engine voice)
• Cornering (handling dynamics)
• Driving (from ride quality to acceleration response)
• Braking

Exterior

The exterior design of the Mazda MX-5 is approachable and fun, with modern cues that communicate both the simple functionality of a modern lightweight sports car and the athletic solidity of a true sports car.

Interior

The interior environment design themes of the Mazda MX-5 are modern and sporty, with the high quality materials and superior ergonomics expected from the Mazda brand.

Key highlights include:

• Available leather upholstery and heated seats (GT models) with seat height adjuster of driver's seat (GS and GT models)
  
• Leather wrapped sport steering wheel and shift knob enhance grip for better driver control
  
• Extensive functional storage features
  
• Available air conditioning with micron air filter provides year round comfort (optional on GX and GS, standard on GT)
  
• Available 7 speaker Bose® audio system with in-dash 6 CD changer (GT models) engineered to provide optimal listening pleasure for both closed- and open-top driving
  
• Steering wheel mounted audio and cruise controls standard on all models, with a manual tilt feature for the steering column, providing enhanced driver convenience and comfort
  
• Intelligent Key passive keyless entry system standard on GT models

Two levels of interior trim are offered: fabric and leather. The fabric interior is an attractive monotone package with black fabric seat upholstery and silver finished accents on the steering wheel, gauge rings, and inner door handles. The black leather interior provides a more elegant, high-tech look; prominent stitching with heavy thread enhances the appearance of the soft trim. There is also an alternative saddle-tan leather with the feel of expensive footwear, horse saddles, and designer luggage. Areas of the dash and doors are finished with two-tone black and saddle trim. Silver finished accents are provided for the door handles, door assist grips, and speaker rings.

Performance

A dynamic and fun-to-drive personality has always been a hallmark of the popular Mazda MX-5. The third generation, introduced for the 2006 model year, improved upon these Zoom-Zoom characteristics with even more power and superior handling. 2008 finds the MX-5 continuing to deliver the driving experience that enthusiasts expect from a lightweight two seater sports car.

• MZR family 2.0 litre DOHC 4 cylinder engine with 166 horsepower (163 with automatic transmission) and 140 lb-ft of torque
  
• Optional Sport mode 6 speed automatic transmission (with available paddle shifters on GT models)
  
• Independent front strut/rear multi-link suspension geometry provides stable handling and responsive control
  
• Performance features such as sport suspension tuning, Bilstein shocks and a limited-slip differential are offered (standard on GS and optional on GT models)
  
• Performance rated tires supply enhanced grip for better handling