At 3Birds Template, we're proud of all the Mazda models we have on our lot. That being said, we're especially enamored of the 2016 Mazda MX-5 Miata. It's not only gorgeous to look at and fun to drive, it's an absolute thrill at a really affordable price. And while we know it's amazing, we're glad to see that we're not the only people who think so. In fact, the Miata has recently been named the 2016 World Car of the Year. 

The World Car of the Year award was established in 2004 and is given by an international group of automotive journalists. This year, for example, the judging panel consisted of 73 journalists from 23 different countries. The Miata was named victorious at the 2016 New York International Auto Show, beating out other finalists like the Audi A4 Sedan/Audi A4 Avant and Mercedes-Benz GLC.

As Masahiro Moro, President and CEO, Mazda North American Operations, and Managing Executive Officer, Mazda Motor Corporation, said:

What a wonderful honor, to have the Mazda MX-5 named World Car of the Year. As our iconic MX-5 roadster approaches one-million units of production, this award is proof that it is as young, vibrant, fun and relevant as ever. While I accept this award on behalf of the company, I do so representing every Mazda employee, retail partner and customer around the world who has ever felt the joy of driving a pure roadster. We say ‘Driving Matters’ in our advertising, and we prove it in our cars.

The 2016 MX-5 Miata is actually the second Mazda to win the award, with the Mazda2 taking home the prize in 2008. Mazda came close in 2006 and 2014, with the third generation MX-5 and the Mazda3 making it to the final three in their respective years.

Of course, to get the truest understanding of why the 2016 Mazda MX-5 Miata was named 2016 World Car of the Year, you're going to have to test-drive one for yourself (a shame, we know). Call, contact us online, or simply stop by the dealership today to schedule an appointment, or to experience some of our other stunning Mazda models. The MX-5 Miata isn't the only trick we have up our sleeve, after all.

Image: Mazda