For 2006, an all-new MX-5 will be introduced with more power, bold new styling and room inside for taller drivers. Providing the power increase is a 2.0-liter 170-horsepower engine which can be teamed with a 5-speed manual, a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission. Chassis rigidity has been improved over the current generation, and weight increase has been kept to a mere 22 pounds. The manual-operation top features a glass rear window and can be lowered with the release of one latch.

The new Miata boasts a number of new safety features, including standard side airbags and available Dynamic Stability Control (DSC). The third-generation Miata will start at just under $21,000 when it goes on sale this August. Meanwhile, Mazda will come to market this year with the all-new Mazda5. Smaller than the MPV but larger than the Mazda3, the Mazda5 features seating for six in three rows of theater-style seating. There are slide and recline adjustments for the second row seats, and folding the second- and third-row seats creates nearly a flat cargo floor. Additional Coverage: Mazda MX-5 Miata