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What Price Fun? 2007 Mazda MX-5 Power Retractable Hard Top Priced From $24,350


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Mazda MX-5 Miata Power Retractable Hard Top (European Specification) (

IRVINE, Calif., Aug. 16, 2006 -- Adding a new dimension to the Mazda MX-5 without diminishing its driving joy is no mean feat. The MX-5 Miata reinvented the lightweight, fun-to-drive, two-seat category in 1989, and has since become the world's best-selling two-seat roadster. For 2007, Mazda's iconic MX-5 will again set a new standard for the segment with the introduction of a Power Retractable Hard Top (PRHT). And with pricing beginning at only $24,350 (MSRP, not including tax, license and destination and handling fees), it provides drivers with year-round comfort and security as well as the joy of an open-top roadster at a truly affordable price.

Powered by a 170-hp, 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine, the MX-5 PRHT provides exactly the same trunk capacity as its soft-top cousin, regardless of whether the roof is stowed or over-head -- a feat no other retractable hard top-equipped car sold in North America can boast. This breakthrough system requires only 12 seconds to open or close.

For $24,350, buyers will receive a Sport-trim MX-5 PRHT which includes the power retractable hard top, power windows, mirrors and door locks, anti-lock brakes, seat-mounted side SRS airbags and an AM/FM/CD player. Available options (some only available in packages) include leather seating, dynamic stability and traction control, Bilstein gas shock absorbers and run-flat tires. MX-5 PRHT will be available at Mazda dealers throughout the nation starting in late September.

Even fitted with its coupe-like hard top, the MX-5 PRHT continues to be a light-weight roadster offering a truly fun-to-drive experience, adding only approximately 77 pounds net weight. Some minor adjustments were in order to compensate for the added weight, though, including firmer shock absorbers, higher spring rates and a larger diameter front anti-roll bar.

When the top is down, MX-5 PRHT models can be identified by a fine chrome ring around the grille opening, bright bezels inside the headlamps, a chrome band in each door handle and a white lens on the CHMSL.

Mazda MX-5 PRHT comes with seven exterior colors having two new colors -- Stormy Blue Mica and Highland Green Mica replacing two existing colors. Three interior packages -- black fabric, black leather, and saddle-tan leather -- carry over from the MX-5 soft top.

Headquartered in Irvine, Calif., Mazda North American Operations oversees the sales, marketing, parts and customer service support of Mazda vehicles in the United States, Canada and Mexico through nearly 900 dealers. Operations in Canada are managed by Mazda Canada, Inc, located in Ontario, Canada, and in Mexico by Mazda Motor de Mexico in Mexico City.