2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata (photos)

After more than 20 years of production, the Mazda Miata is still going strong. The Miata single-handedly brought back the roadster. It may not be the most practical car around, but it is a lot of fun. It has excellent driving dynamics and the retractable hard top gives it security and weather proofing.

Mazda goes a little overboard with the happy face on the front of this car, but its pronounced fenders give it a stronger look on the sides.

The 2-liter four cylinder engine produces 167 horsepower and 140 pound-feet of torque, not a great amount of power for this car.

For open-top driving, Mazda includes a few tricks for the climate control and audio system, each designed with special modes to deal with an open cockpit and increased wind noise.

This retractable hard top is an excellent option on the Miata. It stows behind the cabin, and does not impact trunk space.

With the top up, the Miata has a race car-like profile.

Our car came with the optional Suspension package that adds a limited slip differential and Bilstein shocks. At $500, this package is a steal.

Trunk space is not huge with the Miata, but it is adequate.

In Grand Touring trim, the Miata gets leather sport seats, giving the cabin an upscale feel.

Where the Miata falls behind is in its cabin tech. Navigation and iPod integration are not available on the Mazda, but it does come standard with a Bluetooth phone system and Bose audio.

The steering is exceptionally tight in the Miata, which makes it very fun to drive.

The gauges are simple, with a classic look. The center display shows trip information, including fuel economy.

The six-speed-manual transmission has a very precise gate, with short throws making for quick shifts.

The stereo is fairly simple, although it does have a six CD changer that can play MP3 CDs. Along with satellite radio, there is also an auxiliary audio jack.

The Bluetooth phone system is voice operated, but does show some feedback on the radio display.