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What Mazda has called a "refresh" is actually a seriously thorough tweaking
of the MX-5's mechanics and aesthetics. Outside the rag top, known as the
Roadster in Japan where it's just gone on sale, gets a smaller version of the
smile we've seen on the Mazda3, new alloy wheels, a stronger character line and
three new colors. Inside it gets new gauges, more supportive seats and a new
MX-5-specific BOSE system. And underneath the hood, the engine gets a higher
redline, the automatic transmission gets a couple of new modes, and manual
gearbox just gets more refined and the front end has been lowered. And those
changes represent just the tips of many icebergs. One thing we can all be
thankful Mazda hasn't changed about the MX-5 is its Jinba Ittai. That's Japanese
for "rider and horse as one." Who knew?
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