I currently have a MY16 Club, and agree with the bulk of your analysis. I would like to address a few of the items you mentioned. With regards to the infotainment system, I agree that it could stand some improvement. Luckily, their software can be easily hacked and features can be added (no use programming required, just a simple file transfer via the USB port). One of the "hacks" is to enable the touch screen while the vehicle is in motion, which makes life a lot easier. However, I rarely interact with the infotainment system as I tend to either keep in on FM radio or stream audio through my smartphone, while still using the steering wheel controls to toggle stations/track and volume. As for the placement of the infotainment knobs, yes, they are not in the most convenient location, but I fairly quickly adjusted to their location on the center console. I can pretty much grab either the volume knob or the main controller without looking down. Regarding the cup holders, yes, terrible placement, and I pretty much don't use them. 12V power port? I am convinced that the engineers literally forgot about it until after the interior design was locked in and they had to add it in after the fact. True story; I was in the Mazda dealership getting my oil changed and was sitting in the showroom waiting when a salesperson was showing a customer a Miata on the showroom floor. When the customer asked about the 12V outlet, the salesperson couldn't find it. I had to chime in showing them both the ridiculous location. Storage really is an issue in this car as I don't understand why the designers couldn't figure out a way to keep the door pockets that the NC Miata had. Luckily, there are the "hidden" compartments behind either seat. I use one for storing the owner's manual, thus freeing up the entire center glove box for whatever I may need to store for quick access. I do love this car and it puts a smile on my face every time I drive it. It fact, it can literally change (read: improve) my mood. My previous car was a MY14 Audi S4, and I don't miss the power one bit. The Miata delivers such a visceral and direct feeling when you drive it, that is just feels so much faster than it really is. Of course, that same visceral feeling results in a very loud and unpleasant vehicle to drive with the top up, especially on the highway. At the end of the day, one would have to spend Porsche Boxster levels of money to have both refinement and that visceral feel.
I've been watching/catching up on a lot of ND RF content and I agree here too. I've not put the "tweaks" in place yet but will here this weekend to address the touch screen issue - I'll also update to the latest firmware to allow for the Android Auto / Apple Car Play USB header upgrade I'm planning on doing here shortly as well. (MY2017's and up can be upgraded - this will also allow for charging via USB). The door pockets would have been a huge plus (you really don't think about how much you use them until you don't have them). If storage is really a concern a fun to drive coupe (like a BRZ/86) should probably be something to explore more. I choose the MX5 RF - I have a '17 GT - mostly because the top security but also for it's looks and the fact I've yet to own a Miata. I've also yet to hear any reviewers say they could tell the difference in handling between the RF and soft top, although they always comment that if a pro driver were on a track they _might_ be able to. If I were going to track this car I'd probably go with a base soft top and add the necessary handling gear and safety bits - but the real purpose for me was a fun to drive car for my wife and I to "get away" and I would find it hard to get lots of tickets in.
I’m not sure what your talking about with the infotainment system. It’s so much easier to just use the scroll when driving. It’s very similar to the old bmw i drive system. Plus there are shortcut buttons there as well. It’s just taking the time to learn and get used to.
First review I've seen (out of about 100) that mentioned the location of the 12volt port. I reckon that is a brilliant location - you can hide your cable so well this way - and permanently have a hidden USB adaptor supplying a beefy 1 or 2 amps instead of the standard 500mA usb that's already in the car. Plus who wants a large old hole in the dashboard for a 12v port - that's so 1980's.
Honest and very detailed review. I agree that the location of the 12v port is bad and the USBs don't have enough power. I actually owned the car for 2 years. Regarding seat comfort in my experience, I've done 8+ hours journeys a couple of times and I can confirm that that after 4.5hrs my lower back was hurting a bit BUT with that being said, the 1st priority for Mazda was to have a lightweight and nimble roadster. The comfort will depend a lot on driver's weight and height - just go for a test drive and check. Keeping the car light and agile had priority and they have achieved that. This is a proper holiday car not just a weekend car as many say. The only thing I need to mention is, just don't expect to fit 5 pairs of shoes in it. Be sensible with your luggage. This is a quirky and small sports car but you know what, this quirkiness makes it very special. Everywhere I went it turned heads, even people in Porsche or other upper market cars were looking. This is an amazing little car
Love the styling in this model of MX-5. When I first saw it I was both very pleased they got away from that frumpy rounded styling of the past few yrs. But I'm very disappointed that they didn't take the car in a little different direction by that I mean #one making it a little large to accommodate the biggest market for the car America, and #two giving it a more robust engine! I mean if Ford can get 310 hp out of their Eco Boost then Mazda could squeeze out a bit over 200hp for the MX-5. So if they had aimed it at making it comfortable for a 6'+ person and given some power they undoubtedly would sell a hell of a lot more cars in this market.
apple carplay and android auto, will arrive with a software update during this year. If you dont like the that the touchscreen stops working during driving, the system is unix based and can be turned off if you know a little about computers. The infotainment system is actually pretty good, and far better than a lot of other brands.
Excellent review as always, Sam. One item I was hoping you'd address was to film yourself with the top all buttoned up. I'm curious how much quieter it is. Thanks for the honest review. I owned an original 1990 Miata so there's a special place in my heart for these cars.
The infotainment system is actually very intuitive...just depends on the user. Some struggle with it while some will find it intuitive. Once you get the hang of it it's easy to use. Mazda is not the only manufacturer that uses this kind of infotainment unit with a knob controller..in fact you will find this in Mercedes and Audi vehicles but Mazda is probably one of the few it not the only mainstream manufacturer that has it in their vehicles. Is it perfect? Of course not and it has its flaws but I find it better than some. Touchscreen feature is disabled once vehicle is on the move - why? for safety reasons and honestly I hate touchscreens due to the smudges! I own a Mazda and glad they have the controller knob as I always use that feature and hate having smudges on the screen! My other vehicle (Ford) uses a touchscreen and is a pain to clean it!
Infotainment has become important to buyers. I am not versed in tech much but my buddy’s claim the system can be hacked easy to become one of the best system..
Way over the top about the infotainment, as a mazda owner the system is great. I've never used the touch screen as the dial is so much easier. Along with the steering wheel controls you'd not wanna use the screen anyways. why would you want finger marks all over it? Okay so its not got apple or android thingie. But your missing the point. its a car not a computer. As long as the system has DAB, NAV & Blutooth what more do you want?
Coming from a 2016 f56 Mini Cooper S, this thing basically has an iDrive system that functions the same way, minus the touchscreen all together. I don’t see the issue here with the touchscreen being only at a stand still.
Good review but I am your height and I never bang my arm against the cup holders. Not sure what you are doing with your arm but you needed to stop that now lol. I completely disagree with your gripes about the infotainment system but to each their own. I absolutely love the knobs!
Its easy to memorize the arrangement of the head unit controls. You shouldn't have to look down every time to see what you're doing but if you try to touch the screen while driving then you're taking your eyes off the road with lots more features to activate and press to keep your eyes off the road longer. Which method is more safe? Mazda doesn't want drivers killing themselves and others because they want to listen to their favorite song. Its a safety feature. Why do other manufacturers do it? They're bowing to popular opinion. Where I live its illegal to text and drive but having a touchscreen in your car is just as bad as using your phone. However thats ok for some odd reason.
I've been watching your reviews for awhile now and I always enjoy them, including this one. But I disagree with your harsh opinion about the infotainment system. I have had a 2016 Mazda3 Touring for over a year and while some of your complaints are true, I have no problem adjusting the screen with the panel-located knobs while driving. Even while parked I almost never use the touch screen, only the control knobs and buttons. Yes, I have to take my eyes off the road to look at the screen but even if the touch screen worked while moving I would have to look at it. I don't have to look down at the knobs, my hand knows where they are. I love the system, I never have to lift my arm! Anyway, I look forward to your next review!
I just keep one cupholder at passenger footwell and store the other one to save my elbow bang when shifting. I would like to order another passenger cupholder so at least I could have 2, one in the footwell and one where the passengers elbow is, not the drivers!
Great review, but your overall score seems like it should have been 4 stars. I bet you wrestled with that last half star. Also the Google/UA-cam "image stabilization" post processing adds surreal jello-like waves to the presentation, would rather see the little shaky-cam. Good show! I had a 90's model MX-5 and added a roll bar.
David Ilijevski according to Mazda, premium is recommended. However, one can use gas with an octane rating as low as 87 with a little bit of sacrifice to performance.
I agree with your asessment of the info-tainment system. My personal taste would be to go for the convertable. Great review as always!
7 років тому+2
wizeguiz I personally very like the Mazda infotainment system, especially, that I don't have to touch and mess up the screen. It takes some time to get used of the UI, of course and there are some quirks. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto will come later this year and older cars can be upgraded (according to Mazda).
I wish they would build the engine proper, set the redline around 9K, then tune the engine accordingly. I know it's a Miata. But F20C's had similar peak torque, but needed the extra RPM to obtain it. And the engine made 85 more HP with a lower compression ratio. Honda did this 18 years ago now. And yes you can get the same fuel economy if you slap on a small turbo with a proper tune. I would get around 280-300 miles out of the 10 gallon fuel tank, depending how fast you were going on the freeway. :P
I agree 100% about the 12v charging port. I cannot fathom why they put it in such an inaccessible location! As to the cup holders, I'm the only person in the car 90% of the time, so having one on the passenger side works well (Also, neither of my 6 foot sons, or my 5'9" wife have any issue with its location.) I own a 2016 Club. I like the RF, but prefer a soft top for simplicity, and how quickly I can transition from open to closed, and vise versa. Also, about 3 seconds, versus 13 seconds for the roof transition. My wife prefers the RF. Maybe she'll buy one, but the soft top is the car for me. =D
Sorry but better at what? I have had na-nb-Have nc -drove a nd 4 times, they got better each and every generation.from start to finish the weight has only fluctuated under 200 lbs . The cars have also kept getting more powerful.The na is great but not any better than any other generation.
I currently have a MY16 Club, and agree with the bulk of your analysis. I would like to address a few of the items you mentioned.
With regards to the infotainment system, I agree that it could stand some improvement. Luckily, their software can be easily hacked and features can be added (no use programming required, just a simple file transfer via the USB port). One of the "hacks" is to enable the touch screen while the vehicle is in motion, which makes life a lot easier. However, I rarely interact with the infotainment system as I tend to either keep in on FM radio or stream audio through my smartphone, while still using the steering wheel controls to toggle stations/track and volume.
As for the placement of the infotainment knobs, yes, they are not in the most convenient location, but I fairly quickly adjusted to their location on the center console. I can pretty much grab either the volume knob or the main controller without looking down.
Regarding the cup holders, yes, terrible placement, and I pretty much don't use them. 12V power port? I am convinced that the engineers literally forgot about it until after the interior design was locked in and they had to add it in after the fact. True story; I was in the Mazda dealership getting my oil changed and was sitting in the showroom waiting when a salesperson was showing a customer a Miata on the showroom floor. When the customer asked about the 12V outlet, the salesperson couldn't find it. I had to chime in showing them both the ridiculous location.
Storage really is an issue in this car as I don't understand why the designers couldn't figure out a way to keep the door pockets that the NC Miata had. Luckily, there are the "hidden" compartments behind either seat. I use one for storing the owner's manual, thus freeing up the entire center glove box for whatever I may need to store for quick access.
I do love this car and it puts a smile on my face every time I drive it. It fact, it can literally change (read: improve) my mood. My previous car was a MY14 Audi S4, and I don't miss the power one bit. The Miata delivers such a visceral and direct feeling when you drive it, that is just feels so much faster than it really is. Of course, that same visceral feeling results in a very loud and unpleasant vehicle to drive with the top up, especially on the highway.
At the end of the day, one would have to spend Porsche Boxster levels of money to have both refinement and that visceral feel.
Scott Schapiro thank you for all this great feedback from an actual owners perspective as well. Helps make this video even better.
I've been watching/catching up on a lot of ND RF content and I agree here too. I've not put the "tweaks" in place yet but will here this weekend to address the touch screen issue - I'll also update to the latest firmware to allow for the Android Auto / Apple Car Play USB header upgrade I'm planning on doing here shortly as well. (MY2017's and up can be upgraded - this will also allow for charging via USB). The door pockets would have been a huge plus (you really don't think about how much you use them until you don't have them). If storage is really a concern a fun to drive coupe (like a BRZ/86) should probably be something to explore more. I choose the MX5 RF - I have a '17 GT - mostly because the top security but also for it's looks and the fact I've yet to own a Miata. I've also yet to hear any reviewers say they could tell the difference in handling between the RF and soft top, although they always comment that if a pro driver were on a track they _might_ be able to. If I were going to track this car I'd probably go with a base soft top and add the necessary handling gear and safety bits - but the real purpose for me was a fun to drive car for my wife and I to "get away" and I would find it hard to get lots of tickets in.
I’m not sure what your talking about with the infotainment system. It’s so much easier to just use the scroll when driving. It’s very similar to the old bmw i drive system. Plus there are shortcut buttons there as well.
It’s just taking the time to learn and get used to.
First review I've seen (out of about 100) that mentioned the location of the 12volt port. I reckon that is a brilliant location - you can hide your cable so well this way - and permanently have a hidden USB adaptor supplying a beefy 1 or 2 amps instead of the standard 500mA usb that's already in the car. Plus who wants a large old hole in the dashboard for a 12v port - that's so 1980's.
Can you reach the port from the drivers seat? I want to put a garage opener in it
Nice cut! Did you lose a bet? Love your reviews, some of the best and most unbiased in the business, imo.
Retractable fastback* not Retractable fixed roof! Nice review though
Mohamed El-Arini How can he be SO DEAD WRONG right off the bat? 😂
Chuck Liddell of car reviews
My first car was a 2008 Mazda MX-5 Grand Touring Special Edition. I hate I ever got rid of it. I'd love to get back in one. The new RF is gorgeous.
Honest and very detailed review. I agree that the location of the 12v port is bad and the USBs don't have enough power. I actually owned the car for 2 years. Regarding seat comfort in my experience, I've done 8+ hours journeys a couple of times and I can confirm that that after 4.5hrs my lower back was hurting a bit BUT with that being said, the 1st priority for Mazda was to have a lightweight and nimble roadster. The comfort will depend a lot on driver's weight and height - just go for a test drive and check. Keeping the car light and agile had priority and they have achieved that. This is a proper holiday car not just a weekend car as many say. The only thing I need to mention is, just don't expect to fit 5 pairs of shoes in it. Be sensible with your luggage. This is a quirky and small sports car but you know what, this quirkiness makes it very special. Everywhere I went it turned heads, even people in Porsche or other upper market cars were looking. This is an amazing little car
Love the styling in this model of MX-5. When I first saw it I was both very pleased they got away from that frumpy rounded styling of the past few yrs. But I'm very disappointed that they didn't take the car in a little different direction by that I mean #one making it a little large to accommodate the biggest market for the car America, and #two giving it a more robust engine! I mean if Ford can get 310 hp out of their Eco Boost then Mazda could squeeze out a bit over 200hp for the MX-5. So if they had aimed it at making it comfortable for a 6'+ person and given some power they undoubtedly would sell a hell of a lot more cars in this market.
Sam, which model did you prefer? The RF or the convertible?
Wish they would have the telescoping steering wheel for a more optimized driving experience.
apple carplay and android auto, will arrive with a software update during this year. If you dont like the that the touchscreen stops working during driving, the system is unix based and can be turned off if you know a little about computers. The infotainment system is actually pretty good, and far better than a lot of other brands.
nice thorough review man, well done!
Excellent detailed analysis; I appreciate the impartial nature of your reviews.
Excellent review as always, Sam. One item I was hoping you'd address was to film yourself with the top all buttoned up. I'm curious how much quieter it is. Thanks for the honest review. I owned an original 1990 Miata so there's a special place in my heart for these cars.
The infotainment system is actually very intuitive...just depends on the user. Some struggle with it while some will find it intuitive. Once you get the hang of it it's easy to use. Mazda is not the only manufacturer that uses this kind of infotainment unit with a knob controller..in fact you will find this in Mercedes and Audi vehicles but Mazda is probably one of the few it not the only mainstream manufacturer that has it in their vehicles. Is it perfect? Of course not and it has its flaws but I find it better than some. Touchscreen feature is disabled once vehicle is on the move - why? for safety reasons and honestly I hate touchscreens due to the smudges! I own a Mazda and glad they have the controller knob as I always use that feature and hate having smudges on the screen! My other vehicle (Ford) uses a touchscreen and is a pain to clean it!
its a brilliant system tbh. so much better then the system in VAG's
Infotainment has become important to buyers. I am not versed in tech much but my buddy’s claim the system can be hacked easy to become one of the best system..
Always a good review from Sam!
Way over the top about the infotainment, as a mazda owner the system is great. I've never used the touch screen as the dial is so much easier. Along with the steering wheel controls you'd not wanna use the screen anyways. why would you want finger marks all over it?
Okay so its not got apple or android thingie. But your missing the point. its a car not a computer.
As long as the system has DAB, NAV & Blutooth what more do you want?
Quality content, great in-depth drive; thanks man!
Coming from a 2016 f56 Mini Cooper S, this thing basically has an iDrive system that functions the same way, minus the touchscreen all together. I don’t see the issue here with the touchscreen being only at a stand still.
What is the mpg when you baby the car?
Good review but I am your height and I never bang my arm against the cup holders. Not sure what you are doing with your arm but you needed to stop that now lol. I completely disagree with your gripes about the infotainment system but to each their own. I absolutely love the knobs!
LOL! Sam's facial expressions when talking about the infotainment are priceless!
Its easy to memorize the arrangement of the head unit controls. You shouldn't have to look down every time to see what you're doing but if you try to touch the screen while driving then you're taking your eyes off the road with lots more features to activate and press to keep your eyes off the road longer. Which method is more safe? Mazda doesn't want drivers killing themselves and others because they want to listen to their favorite song. Its a safety feature. Why do other manufacturers do it? They're bowing to popular opinion. Where I live its illegal to text and drive but having a touchscreen in your car is just as bad as using your phone. However thats ok for some odd reason.
I've been watching your reviews for awhile now and I always enjoy them, including this one. But I disagree with your harsh opinion about the infotainment system. I have had a 2016 Mazda3 Touring for over a year and while some of your complaints are true, I have no problem adjusting the screen with the panel-located knobs while driving. Even while parked I almost never use the touch screen, only the control knobs and buttons. Yes, I have to take my eyes off the road to look at the screen but even if the touch screen worked while moving I would have to look at it. I don't have to look down at the knobs, my hand knows where they are. I love the system, I never have to lift my arm! Anyway, I look forward to your next review!
The 12 volt placement is completely unacceptable. I don't know how he knew it was there?
Owner's manual....and it was as hard to find there as it was in the car.
Good and honest review !
Great review. Thank you!
we all hate the cup holder design but with this kinda cramped interior I can't come up with any better way to put the cup holder up.
I just keep one cupholder at passenger footwell and store the other one to save my elbow bang when shifting. I would like to order another passenger cupholder so at least I could have 2, one in the footwell and one where the passengers elbow is, not the drivers!
Retractable fixed roof? Wth
Great review, but your overall score seems like it should have been 4 stars. I bet you wrestled with that last half star. Also the Google/UA-cam "image stabilization" post processing adds surreal jello-like waves to the presentation, would rather see the little shaky-cam. Good show! I had a 90's model MX-5 and added a roll bar.
Thought u needed to use premium fuel
David Ilijevski according to Mazda, premium is recommended. However, one can use gas with an octane rating as low as 87 with a little bit of sacrifice to performance.
Awesome how you honestly bash on what doesn't work. Made me laugh.
Not to bad looking.
The reviewer or the car ?
I agree with your asessment of the info-tainment system. My personal taste would be to go for the convertable. Great review as always!
wizeguiz I personally very like the Mazda infotainment system, especially, that I don't have to touch and mess up the screen. It takes some time to get used of the UI, of course and there are some quirks. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto will come later this year and older cars can be upgraded (according to Mazda).
WHAAAAATTTTT!!!!! I am first comment!!!!! Love the reviews Sam!!!!!
I wish they would build the engine proper, set the redline around 9K, then tune the engine accordingly. I know it's a Miata. But F20C's had similar peak torque, but needed the extra RPM to obtain it. And the engine made 85 more HP with a lower compression ratio. Honda did this 18 years ago now. And yes you can get the same fuel economy if you slap on a small turbo with a proper tune. I would get around 280-300 miles out of the 10 gallon fuel tank, depending how fast you were going on the freeway. :P
Damn you now look like Chuck Liddell with this new haircut and face hair.
Love my soul red Mx5rf! Great looking and fits me like a glove.i
I agree 100% about the 12v charging port. I cannot fathom why they put it in such an inaccessible location! As to the cup holders, I'm the only person in the car 90% of the time, so having one on the passenger side works well (Also, neither of my 6 foot sons, or my 5'9" wife have any issue with its location.) I own a 2016 Club. I like the RF, but prefer a soft top for simplicity, and how quickly I can transition from open to closed, and vise versa. Also, about 3 seconds, versus 13 seconds for the roof transition. My wife prefers the RF. Maybe she'll buy one, but the soft top is the car for me. =D
Great car took one for test drive but my na is better
Your ........what?
Sorry but better at what? I have had na-nb-Have nc -drove a nd 4 times, they got better each and every generation.from start to finish the weight has only fluctuated under 200 lbs . The cars have also kept getting more powerful.The na is great but not any better than any other generation.
ruuf line
Does anyone else think the front end looks like a catfish?
briefman49 - yes, along with it's larger friend the 18' Mustang.
I love it all over
Correcr! Shit entertainment system!!! Thats why i dont buy mx 5 🤨