2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata PRHT

In 2006 Mazda introduced the power retractable hard top MX-5, or PRHT MX-5 for short. Replacing the tan or black cloth on the roadsters convertible top is a body colored, powered hard top. Taking a mere 12 seconds from open to close the powered top drops effortlessly. Known as the "MX-5 Miata PRHT" in North America and simply called "Roadster PRHT" in Japan, the MX-5 sets a new standard for the affordable two-seater sports car market. Car and Driver magazine proclaimed the MX-5 as "the best roadster" and included it in its "10 best cars of 2008". The MX-5 is powered by an aluminum, 2.0 liter, four-cylinder motor which is good for 140 foot pounds of torque, and as previously mentioned, 166 horsepower (158 when equipped with an automatic gearbox). Being a performance minded product, premium fuel is of course recommended for optimal performance and fuel economy.

The PRHT MX-5 starts at $25,035 and has lengthy list of standard equipment. Exterior standard features include 16" alloy wheels and color-keyed mirrors and door handles. Anti-lock brakes with brake assist and front and side airbags are standard on all MX-5s as well. The starting trim for the MX-5 PRHT is called "Sport". On the interior of Sport models power windows and A/C are standard while cruise control, power locks, keyless entry, fog lamps, and steering wheel audio controls come via the convenience package.

The sport trim is available with your choice of an automatic transmission with paddle shifters or a five-speed manual transmission. Moving to the "Touring" model will make all power equipment standard as well as provide 17" wheels. Starting with Touring models a sport-tuned suspension package is available which provides blistein shocks and a limited slip differential. All Touring and Grand Touring models featuring manual transmissions are equipped with a six-speed gearbox (with overdrive) instead of the standard five-speed. Run flat tires are also an option available on these two trims.

The top of the line PRHT MX-5 is dubbed "Grand Touring". Equipped with Leather seats, a seven-speaker Bose radio, and silver accents the Grand Touring is the most luxurious MX-5 money can buy. As if the Grand Touring model wasn't already loaded to the hilt Mazda has two premium packages available. Premium package #1 includes Xenon headlamps, an anti-theft alarm, traction control, advanced keyless entry and a limited slip differential. For those who wouldn't enjoy the limited slip differential package #2 provides all of the features listed above but with a standard differential.