On a beautiful day this past fall in Alexandria, Virginia, I gathered with my fellow auto journalists in the DC area at our monthly WAPA (Washington Automotive Press Association) event and got a chance to drive the all-new Mazda MX-5 and also speak to the team at Mazda. An exclusive interview with Rod McLaughlin, the MX-5 vehicle line manager, is also featured in this publication. The MX-5 is an icon and as such there was a lot of anticipation in regards to how the new car would evolve, how the KODO design language would be interpreted, and the difference SKYATIV would make on this platform. I got some short driving time and was impressed, though I would love to get more extended time with the vehicle to make a more constructive observation. The handling is exceptional and the integrated technology is class-leading. The MX-5 uses a 2.0 L 4-cylinder direct injection engine that makes 155 hp and 148 lb-ft of torque for a vehicle that weighs a little over 2300 lbs. The packaging now comes in three distinct trims: the Sport at $24,915, the Club at $28,600, and the Grand Touring at $30,065. A 6-speed sport automatic transmission with paddle shifters is available for each trim. Check out my interview with Rod McLaughlin for more details about the MX-5 and visit www.mazdausa.com.