Like its all-new exterior, the Miata's cockpit looks familiar even though almost everything has been subtly altered. The switches, for example, have been relocated, the instrument panel has been redesigned, rotary knobs replace the old climate control sliders, audio systems are now stacked above the climate controls, and a new three-spoke Nardi steering wheel lends a spiffy appearance, as well as a better view of the tachometer and speedometer.Mazda has also developed a new and more effective wind-blocker, to keep cabin turbulence to a minimum when the top is down. You still get wind in the hair, but without having your hair standing straight up. And speaking of the top, Mazda has substituted a glass rear window, complete with an electric defogger, for the old plastic panel. This is a big improvement, because plastic windows inevitably yellow with age and also develop optical distortion when they're folded. Plastic windows on previous models would often crease if the owner forgot to unzip them before dropping the top. There's also a bit more room in the trunk--about a half a cubic foot--created by stowing the spare tire and battery under the floor. It's still tiny, but you can wedge a couple of golf bags back there, or enough luggage for a weekend excursion. Interior dimensions have not changed. The cockpit still feels a tad snug to folks over six feet tall. And those who sit tall in the saddle are likely to find the top brushing against their hair. Our solution: drive with the top down whenever possible. It's still the same easy one-hand operation.
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