The two-passenger 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata convertible offers drivers a thrilling ride while maintaining a low enough base price and above average fuel efficiency that raise the status of this Mazda beyond entertaining weekend toy to competent and viable form of daily transportation - with European style and zest. Although all Miata trims are available with a soft-top, upscale trims are also available with a retractable hardtop-the lowest priced on the market today-that offers the same 5.3 cubic feet of trunk space as its soft top partners. This favorite amongst Mazda and roadster fans alike sees only minor changes for the 2008 model year which include a slight reduction in horsepower for Miata's equipped with an automatic transmission and the addition of a new Special Edition trim level to the MX-5 Miata lineup.

The spirited MX-5 Miata is available in 5 trims: SV, Sport, Touring, Grand Touring and the Special Edition. The light weight, minimally equipped SV features a 16 inch alloy wheels, power side view mirrors and windows, a black vinyl convertible top, a 4 speaker AM/FM/CD stereo and a height adjustable driver seat. The Sport upgrades with a leather wrapped steering wheel and air conditioning. The Touring replaces the 16-inch wheels with 17-inch alloy rims and adds keyless entry, a strut tower brace, cruise control and upgrades the stereo to a 6 speaker AM/FM/CD system with CD changer and steering wheel mounted audio controls. The Grand Touring is equipped similarly to the Sport then adds heated leather seats, a 7 speaker premium Bose audio system and a premium quality cloth soft top that is available in black or parchment. The Sport, Touring and Grand Touring are all available with one of the best retractable hard tops in the industry and labeled 'PRHT' models. The brand new Special Edition trim comes in Icy Blue and equipped identically to the Grand Touring then adds a limited slip differential, stability control, xenon HID headlights and an advanced keyless entry system. A variety of stand alone options, bundled options packages, appearance packages and interior trim packages allow for optimized customization and include all of the most popular luxury, comfort and convenience features.

All versions of the 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata are rear wheel drive and equipped with a 2.0 liter 4 cylinder engine that produces 158 horsepower when paired with an automatic transmission and 166 horsepower when mated to a manual. The SV and Sport versions come with a 5 speed manual transmission, while the Touring and Grand Touring trims are equipped with a 6 speed manual. A 6 speed automatic with paddle shifters is available as an option for all trims with the exception of the SV and the Sport PRHT. Above average gas mileage of 20-22 mpg in the city and 27-28 on the highway make this sophisticated roadster suitable for daily driving. Although not the fastest drop top on the block, the Miata easily goes from 0 to 60 in 7.5 seconds and offers smooth and precise handling in addition to sheer, unadulterated enjoyment.