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EXECUTIVE EDITOR--AUTOWEEK.COM BOB GRITZINGER: In looking up the changes for this model year, I learned that for 2010, the six-speed manual versions are fitted with something called an Induction Sound Enhancer. According to the Mazda product release, the system “delivers the engine's natural induction sound to the cowl, just ahead of the windshield, so pleasing engine sounds can be delivered at a comfortable volume without resorting to simply being loud.” Here's to that. It works.

I say that because the last MX-5 I drove--which couldn't have been more than year ago--seemed considerably rougher around the edges, with a raw-sounding powertrain. This example, with the power-folding hardtop, seems solid as a rock, highly responsive and fun to just listen to--which makes it a blast to drive.

I powered the roof down for the evening drive home, which made the car a six-speed blast for ripping up the highway--even though I rarely ran above the speed limit. Open-air driving can be speed-limiting in that way--it always seems like you're running faster than you are with the wind in your hair. I ran some evening errands, also top down, and enjoyed hearing the engine wind toward redline as much as I recall liking it in much more expensive cars. So that's a great accomplishment for Mazda.

Coming back in to the office in the morning, I left the top up and the car felt even stiffer and steadier--but the good sounds still permeated the cabin. This car is like a water bug in traffic--it responds intuitively and is so light and tight that nothing short of a motorcycle would be a better tool for running through the malaise of morning traffic.

MOTORSPORTS EDITOR MAC MORRISON: Even though the Miata has gained weight and a certain level of sophistication over the years--hard to believe it's been, what, 20 years since its launch? It is still just about the purest representation of a mostly bygone era of small two-seat sports cars. Sure, there are low-volume, specialty vehicles available at premium prices, but let's not count those. If you want a relatively affordable, series-production modern sports car in the mold of old-school roadsters, this is about the only choice right now. And it's a good one.

I have to be honest, though--as opposed to lying to you as usual, right?--I wouldn't have guessed anything was different in terms of this Induction Sound Enhancer. Maybe if I drove this straight away after testing the old car, I could tell a big difference.

Regardless, that's relatively inconsequential. Everything about the Miata--I've said it before and I'll say it again: I refuse to call it the MX-5--is made for drivers, from the tossable chassis, to the light weight, nice steering, instant responses and quick shifter. For me, the engine is the weak point. Sure, 167 hp is adequate for a small, light car such as this, and it provides you with a quick-driving sensation, but I know this chassis can handle more power. And when you look at the increase in power levels in recent years in cars spanning all classes, I just wish the Miata featured more punch to go along with the great balance and grip.

At 6-foot-1, I'm unfortunately a little too big for this car as a daily driver. I'm comfortable enough to take it for inspired spins (literally, sometimes), but I couldn't drive it for hundreds of miles straight. I have a difficult time finding a great seating position, and my head is at the top of the windshield frame. I don't like that sensation, and it impedes my vision in certain real-world situations, such as when I'm stopped at a red light and have to cock my head and look under the frame and up to see when the light changes. If the car is positioned in a certain way/distance relative to the light, the frame blocks my straight-ahead vision.

I also would feel no need to buy this convertible hardtop version. It just adds weight, and I feel like it's just out of place on this modern throwback. Give me the base cloth top and I'd be good to go. In my opinion, the traditional roof looks better, too.

NEWS EDITOR GREG MIGLIORE: From a pure fun standpoint, it's hard to beat this Miata. It's tight, interactive, fairly potent and rather pretty. It remains true to its roots and character, and the driver is instantly reminded of this. Mazda's dynamics are always invigorating, from the tight chassis, to the fairly rigid steering to the responsive six-speed manual--it's an enthusiast's car.

I had no problems making the most of 167 hp thanks to the manual gearbox. It's a swift feel, and passing is no problem. I like the maneuverability of this car, too, and changing lanes with this stiff steering is accomplished with the flick of a wrist. I darted in and out of expressway traffic, no sweat. I like the revvy feel of this engine. (Yes, I'm going to say that's a word). It's so Mazda--you just feel energetic when hammering the throttle.

I stereotypically think of this roadster in red, but the silver shade works fine. It's a little tight inside, but it's laid out very well with the gauges and controls in easy view. And this one-button (and hook) hardtop is a breeze. I agree with Morrison, the cloth is purer, but no complaints from my viewpoint. It's a fun summer ride.

ASSOCIATE EDITOR JONATHAN WONG: It's been a while since I've had some seat time in a Miata, which has made me forget just how good and tight this package is. I can say without a shadow of a doubt that the late Pontiac Solstice/Saturn Sky didn't stand a chance up against the Miata. Sure, those two cars had the Miata beat in the visual department with all of those curves, but from a driving standpoint, they were light-years behind.

While the Solstice/Sky had drivetrains that seemed to have come straight off a John Deere tractor, the Miata's just oozes with refinement. The slick shifter, light clutch effort and responsive four-cylinder work so well together. The only thing better that I can think of would be the S2000, but alas, that is now gone, too. Sniff.

I had no problems fitting into the car with my 5-foot-6 frame. Compared with the Pontiac/Saturn, this interior is so much more airy and roomy. In all honestly, the acres of plastic in those General Motors roadsters was downright claustrophobic at times. High marks also go to the trick power folding hardtop. It's easy to operate and opens and closes very quickly.

In the end, the Miata has remained fairly simple and true to its original formula we all fell in love with 20 years ago. Take a solid chassis with a good engine/transmission combination and keep weight in check, and you're bound to have a winner.

2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata Grand Touring PRHT

Drivetrain: 2.0-liter I4; RWD, six-speed manual

Output: 167 hp @ 7,000 rpm, 140 lb-ft @ 5,000 rpm

Fuel Economy (EPA/AW): 24/25.5 mpg

Options: Premium package including antitheft alarm, Mazda keyless entry, Bluetooth, xenon headlights, DCS with traction control, satellite radio ($1,650); suspension package with sport-tuned suspension, Bilstein shocks, limited-slip differential ($500)