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HIROSHIMA, Japan—The Mazda MX-5 (known as the Mazda Roadster in Japan) was first revealed to the world at the Chicago Auto Show in February 1989. To help celebrate the 20th anniversary of this storied roadster, Mazda has announced that the freshened third generation MX-5 is making its North American debut at this year’s Chicago Auto Show, which is being held from February 11-22, 2009.

First Generation Mazda MX-5

Third Generation Mazda MX-5

Through two full redesigns in 1998 and 2005, Mazda engineers focused on keeping the Mazda MX-5 lightweight and optimally balanced. The now-iconic MX-5 has evolved into a desirable and dynamic open-top sports car with enhanced safety and eco-friendly features. In 2006, the third generation MX-5 lineup was expanded with the addition of the Power Retractable Hard Top model, which features a groundbreaking electric roof system that does not sacrifice trunk space. The MX-5 has won more than 170 awards around the world to date, including the 2005-2006 Japan Car of the Year accolade, earning itself an international reputation without equal.

Guinness World Records certified the Mazda MX-5 as the world’s highest production two-seat open-top sports car in May 2000. With 857,201 MX-5 units produced through to December 2008, this record keeps growing.

The MX-5’s “Jinba Ittai” (“rider and horse as one”) concept has been the guiding principle for improvements since the original model. This enduring spirit will ensure that the Zoom-Zoom roadster continues to provide the fun-to-drive feeling of a car that moves in unison with the driver’s intentions to as many people as possible. As the Mazda MX-5 tradition evolves with the times, it will never cease creating countless smiles per mile.

2009 Mazda MX-5 – Hi-res. Images