2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata gets a mid-cycle refresh rather than a full redesign. The main change is a broad update that brings revised styling, a livelier manual-engine tune, sharper responses, and upgraded audio features.
About the 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata
3rd generation (NC, 2006-2015), mid-cycle refresh and first year of the refreshed NC2 design.
Mazda positions the MX-5 Miata as a pure, lightweight, rear-wheel-drive roadster built around simple open-air driving fun rather than raw power or luxury. Its appeal is direct steering, balanced handling, a compact two-seat layout, and an easy-to-use convertible top. Against rivals, the Miata stands out by being lighter, less complicated, and more focused on driver involvement. It is the kind of sports car buyers choose for back-road enjoyment, weekend drives, and a strong sense of connection with the car.
The 2009 lineup ranges from the stripped-back SV and more everyday-friendly Sport to the enthusiast-focused Touring and comfort-focused Grand Touring. Touring pairs a 6-speed transmission with 17-inch wheels and useful extras such as cruise control. Grand Touring adds heated leather seats, automatic climate control, and Bose audio.
What changed, by category
2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, 2.0L 167 HP | 4-Cyl, 2.0L, 167 HP | 4-Cyl, 2.0L, 167 HP | 4-Cyl, 2.0L, 167 HP |
| Transmission | Manual, 5-Spd w/Overdrive | Manual, 5-Spd w/Overdrive | Manual, 6-Spd w/Overdrive | Manual, 6-Spd w/Overdrive |
| Drivetrain | RWD | RWD | RWD | RWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 22 mpg | 21 mpg | 21 mpg | 21 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 28 mpg | 28 mpg | 28 mpg | 28 mpg |
| Horsepower | 167 hp | 167 hp | 167 hp | 167 hp |
| Torque | 140 lb-ft | 140 lb-ft | 140 lb-ft | 140 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 5.3 cu-ft | 5.3 cu-ft | 5.3 cu-ft | 5.3 cu-ft |
| Seats | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Doors | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Alarm System | ||||
| Cruise Control | ||||
| Stability Control | ||||
| Traction Control | ||||
| Alloy Wheels | ||||
| Fog Lights | ||||
| HID Headlights | ||||
| Power Retractable Hard Top | ||||
| Rear Spoiler | ||||
| Bluetooth | ||||
| Premium Audio | ||||
| Satellite Radio | ||||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | ||||
| Automatic Air Conditioning | ||||
| Heated Front Seats | ||||
| Integrated Garage Door Opener | ||||
| Leather Seats | ||||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | ||||
| Power Locks | ||||
| Remote Keyless Entry | ||||
| Tilt Wheel | ||||
Frequently asked questions
Is the 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata a full redesign?
No. The 2009 MX-5 Miata is a mid-cycle refresh of the third-generation car, not a full redesign. It keeps the same basic platform but marks the first year of the refreshed version commonly called the NC2.
How does the 2009 MX-5 Miata differ from the 2008 model?
The 2009 model has revised front and rear styling, a 167-hp tune and 7,200-rpm redline for manual versions, sharper suspension and steering tuning, refined shifting, and updated audio features. These changes make 2009 a meaningful refresh rather than a quiet carryover.
Do all 2009 MX-5 Miatas have 167 horsepower?
No. The 167-hp rating applies to 2009 models with a manual transmission. Automatic-transmission versions remain rated at 158 hp.
Which trims were added to the 2009 MX-5 Miata lineup?
The 2009 lineup adds SV, Sport, Touring, and Grand Touring. SV is the stripped-back version, Sport adds everyday basics, Touring brings a 6-speed setup and more convenience equipment, and Grand Touring focuses on comfort with heated leather seats and automatic climate control.