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2006-2015 Mazda Miata: More refinement, more weight

The third-generation Miata might be our least favorite, but that doesn't mean it isn't great.

Steven Ewing
Steven Ewing spent his childhood reading car magazines, making his career as an automotive journalist an absolute dream job. After getting his foot in the door at Automobile while he was still a teenager, Ewing found homes on the mastheads at Winding Road magazine, Autoblog and Motor1.com before joining the CNET team in 2018. He has also served on the World Car Awards jury. Ewing grew up ingrained in the car culture of Detroit -- the Motor City -- before eventually moving to Los Angeles. In his free time, Ewing loves to cook, binge trash TV and play the drums.
Steven Ewing
NC Mazda MX-5 Miata
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Officially, the NC Miata was just called the "Mazda MX-5."

NC Mazda MX-5 Miata
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Power came from a new 2.0-liter engine, with 170 horsepower and 140 pound-feet of torque.

NC Mazda MX-5 Miata
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In addition to five- and six-speed manual transmissions, buyers could opt for a six-speed automatic.

NC Mazda MX-5 Miata
4 of 14 Mazda

The NC Miata was the heaviest of all the MX-5s, weighing over 2,400 pounds.

NC Mazda MX-5 Miata
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The 2009 model year facelift brought smiley style.

NC Mazda MX-5 Miata
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The NC Miata got a power retractable hardtop option.

NC Mazda MX-5 Miata
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A few special edition models were introduced throughout the NC's life, including a Club package.

NC Mazda MX-5 Miata
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The NC is arguably our least-favorite Miata, but it's still a joy to drive.

NC Mazda MX-5 Miata
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Another facelift in 2013 brought the addition of a lip spoiler.

NC Mazda MX-5 Miata
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Keep scrolling for more photos of the third-generation Mazda Miata.

NC Mazda MX-5 Miata
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NC Mazda MX-5 Miata
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NC Mazda MX-5 Miata
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Mazda MX-5, 2009

NC Mazda MX-5 Miata
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Mazda MX-5, 2009

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