1995 Mazda Miata Mx-5, Monster Miata, 5.0l, 302, T-5 on 2040-cars

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Mazda and Lexus crowned with KBB 5-Year Cost To Own awards

We report on a lot of awards, some of which are given out based on more solid criteria than others. This one, the Kelley Blue Book 5-Year Cost to Own awards, seems like one that new car shoppers should pay attention to.
The cost of a car goes far beyond what you pay for the actual metal, leather and rubber at the point of purchase. Fuel, insurance, maintenance and repair costs, and the cost of fees from the state and financing will all weigh on your wallet while you own the car. That's not even taking into account the biggest cost: depreciation, or the amount of money you lose based on what your car is worth years from now versus the day you bought it.
KBB tracks these sorts of things, and they've compiled a list of winners for 2013 models. On the brand level, Mazda and Lexus earn the 5-Year Cost to Own award for having the lowest overall projected five-year totals (though, curiously, we note that Mazda and Lexus each had only one segment winner). There are lots of winners for all the various segments, so we'll just pick out a few surprising ones to share and you can view the rest here.

More powerful 2019 Mazda MX-5 also more efficient

Bumping the 2019 Mazda MX-5 Miata's power from 155 horses to 181, plus little interior upgrades such as a telescoping steering wheel were more than enough to make the appealing roadster even more so. But there's yet another bonus in store for those that pick up the new Mazda: more efficiency. As initially spotted by industry watcher Bozi Tatarevic, the EPA released fuel economy numbers for the new model, and they're better than the 2018's. And between the automatic and manual versions, the manual sees the biggest increase. Now, these are, very, very minor increases in EPA fuel economy, but any increase is welcome when nothing is lost. The automatic continues to be the most efficient. While the city and highway ratings are unchanged at 26 and 35 mpg respectively, the combined rating increases by 1 mile per gallon to 30. The manual transmission model isn't far behind. City mileage stays the same at 26 mpg, as does the combined rating of 29 mpg. However, highway fuel economy picks up 1 mpg for a total of 34. So to recap, the 2019 Miata retains its good looks, and likely its playful handling and snickety shifter. But it also gets more power, better fuel economy, a better interior, and more options to customize than ever before. This is sounding like it could be the best Miata, yet. We can't wait to try it out. Related Video: Mazda Convertible Performance

2014 Mazda3 breaks cover early, in Euro-spec at least

We're set to get a closer look at the US-spec 2014 Mazda3 later today, but AutoExpress has the first peek at the machine's European cousin (after initial leaks reportedly came from a Czech outlet). The photos show a compact that's taken plenty of design inspiration from its older sister, the Mazda6. That's excellent news, as the larger car's dynamic front fascia, accentuated fender arches and long nose translate well to the Mazda3. Inside, there are are new and improved material choices, and the longer wheelbase means occupants get to enjoy more room than before. There's also a larger trunk with 12.3 cubic feet of cargo capacity.
Buyers in the EU can get their hands on a 1.5-liter Skyactiv-G gasoline engine with 99 horsepower, though the old 2.0-liter four-cylinder will still be available in either 118 hp or 163 hp configuration. A 2.2-liter diesel tops out the engine choices.
The 2014 Mazda3 is lighter than its predecessor and boasts disk brakes and a multi-link rear suspension on every trim. That means this thing should be fun to shuffle around. Stay tuned for details on the US-spec variant later today, including a lot more images of the good-looking hatch.