Exterior
The 2007 redesign was as substantial as the 1999 reworking, which did away with the pop-up headlights in favor of fixed units and a more curvaceous body. The current generation retains the fixed headlights but returns somewhat to the original shape, with fewer curves — except for the accentuated wheel arches that recall the Mazda RX-8.
The folding soft-top incorporates a Z-fold design that uses a single, centrally positioned latch handle. The top fits flush in its lowered position, so a detachable boot cover isn't necessary. Standard wheels measure 16 inches in diameter, but 17-inchers are available.
See also:
Exterior
How could Mazda not get attention with a sedan this good-looking? My Sangria
Red test car didn't necessarily draw stares, but it stood out when parked in my
driveway on a suburban street. It looke ...
Substantially reduced road and wind noise
Many improvements were made to structural rigidity and powertrain NVH
performance to provide a quieter, more pleasant ride, including the reduction of
high frequency booming noise sometimes heard ...
Immobilizer System (with Advanced Key)
The immobilizer system allows the engine
to start only with an advanced key the
system recognizes.
If someone attempts to start the engine
with an unrecognized advanced key, the
engine will not s ...