Just got mine 3 weeks ago. RF GT in aero gray. Daily commute 30 miles and I still come back on UA-cam every night to watch other ppl drive and review. It is that good.
I'm 6'4 and fit pretty comfortably in one that I test drove the other day. Hard top model and I had about an inch clearance above my head and between my knees and the dashboard. I'd find one on a lot near you and try it out though because everyone is different
Driven every porsche driven basically everything worth driving ive been lucky. Drove this car and guess what it puts all the other cars to shame its the most fun car ive driven im getting one
Ok enjoy your MX5 and forget about Porsche, everyone who owns an MX5 keeps mentioning Porsche a completely different car and segment. I agree that it’s a good car but owner have Porsche stamped in their subconscious mind, enjoy your car.
It's fun, but my 981 S sounds amazing, handles better and has the right amount of power, 2 boots for weekends away and road trips. It's also built to last and the depreciation is mostly gone. This is a nice fun 3rd car, but you would need to fit in it and I doubt it can handle the luggage required or eat up motorway miles when needed.
Working at Mercedes I got the opportunity to drive all the sporty MB's and many traded in vehicles like 911's, the RS6 and more. None of the cars were half as fun as the ND2 Miata I got to drive one day, getting a MX-5 Homura next year.
@@shizzydeep6867 4.500 km, ND 1.5 2024 red soul. I have not had any problems with the paint. I am very careful and do not go at high speed if I have a car near, in front of me. I also reduce speed if a big truck comes towards me on a narrow road...
Had my 1.5 since 2016 love the ultra lightness the 1.5 has over the other models. As I live in Suffolk UK , the twisty country lanes are it's perfect home.
Dude I'm almost 50, been in love with cars my whole life and I've seen a lot of car reviews. I do plan on buying one of these a year from now when my cx30 is paid off. I love your take on it, love how you focused on it's curves, how it feels. A different take, thank you. Sub.
As a former owner of an NC PRHT, I must add that a big factor to the Miata fun is how the car is designed literally around the driver’s seat, so that as you make a turn, you stay in the center of the motion and the front and rear of the car rotate around you. This makes for a very connected feeling with the path of travel. You don’t even have to adjust your eyes as much to keep locked on where you’re going. It’s mainly a full-body center-of-gravity sensation, though. Haven’t felt that as much in any other car since
This is known as a “fuselage interior,” inspired by fighter plane design. This design language extends to the exterior in details like the body curving under the rocker panels instead of making a hard break to the car’s underside. Jaguar originated fuselage design. Malcolm Sayer, the designer of the XK-E, previously designed aircraft. He subjected his Jaguar cars to the same wind tunnel aero tuning as the planes he had worked on before.
@@johntechwriter I hope this is not the reason why Mazda doesn’t make cars with enough space in the second row)))) This is what pushes me away from this brand.
I have a 2020 Club with the Recaro pkg. I replaced the vinyl shift and parking brake boots with matching leather from Redline Goods. It really upscaled the interior. I also added their padded armrest for the console lid, I no longer hit the rotary switch by accident. It's my 5th Miata and I've put nearly a million miles on them and a million smiles on me.
Agree on your review of this 2024 RF GT model that if you want to really drive it hard the way to option it is the Club model. Also I love the convertible because of its simple top operation & the totally open feel it gives. Its less noisy than the RF with the top down & the windows up. Its a little bit noisier with the top up than the RF but not b much. I have been daily driving a 2016 Club soft top with the Brembo / BBS wheels in 4 season weather. Its been the best most fun car I've owned but the changes have moved me to order a 2024 Club soft top with the BBR option.
I always wanted to buy a Miata since I was 16, but I live in Thailand now, and it costs $90,000 because of the import tax. It’s sad to see a nice, simple car like this turn into a really expensive one. (For anyone wondering, the import tax in Thailand is 300%. The same goes for brands like Lamborghini, BMW, and Rolls-Royce. Anything except Chinese and Japanese cars will cost 2 to 3 times more than in the US.) 😢😢
What a great review! In 2024, the Mazda Miata is the purist’s sports car we all need. Everything about the ND3 is perfection. I’ll take mine in soul red, club trim, in soft top form. I’ll skip the Brembo/BBS/Recaro package and go aftermarket. ~$34k in the lightest package.
I also LOVE this car! A RF, 6 speed manual, Club with the Performance Package in that stunning red metallic paint that Mazda does so well is the spec for me. Hopefully I will be able to get one soon. This is the kind of car for people who love driving regardless of the price point. That fact alone is something I will never take for granted especially when you consider the price of entry. Thanks for your insights. This car does look gorgeous! Subscribed!
Amen. Manual handbrake, Manual transmission, and an Analog gauge cluster. Other cars are just showpieces. This is the type of car that's all too rare nowadays - 100% made just for the fun experience of driving. Nowadays, aside from this car, the only car I really like that has a similar pure driving experience is the Nissan Skyline GTR R34, and that car is old and hard to find. I hope Mazda never retires the Miata with a manual, and keeps it nice and analog. The only negative for me is the wireless key fob, I prefer traditional keys. And before you say I'm an old man, I'm literally Gen Z lol, but ever since I started driving (first car was a manual) and tried an automatic, it just wasn't the same. Not enough engagement with an automatic, its just plain boring. I like my equipment mechanical, analog, without too many fancy critical electronics. The interior of this car is great too. Very simple, functional, and elegant. Not super futuristic and cluttered like other cars. It manages to be modern and still pure at the same time. Simply amazing. This is the type of car that people who love driving get, even if they can afford one of those expensive supercars, they're all automatic nowadays.
Nobody should feel inferior because their transmission is automatic. Mazda is one of the few manufacturers who build their open transmissions, and the Miata 6-speed automatic is superb.
I hear you on the interior colors, I really don't like the typical black interiors, softer colors for me. Cooler to the touch and just looks better to I think.
@@jimquantic I think that the Millennials drove the all black kind of look and they also dislike chrome or wood. The market responded to that generation’s tastes.
I've had my ND Sport since 10/15, 103,000 miles all seasons in New Hampshire. It is the perfect car for the twisty roads here. A year ago I added a Jaguar F-Type, a wonderful car but overkill for the roads. The Mazda is more enjoyable. The only modification has been Flyin' Miata Wilwood brakes, front and rear.
Had a BMW 328i convertible (Alpine white, top-of-the-line sports package) for nearly 20 years. Bought the MX-5 in 2019 (cosmetically very similar to the one being reviewed - RF, GT, Snowflake White Pearl, top-of-the-line package), thinking that I would keep both and drive them interchangeably, but ended up getting rid of the BMW just a couple of months after the purchase. While I have missed the extra room in the back seats of the BMW, the ride quality of MX-5 more than compensates for any real or imaginary drawbacks (one could find those "imaginary" drawbacks in many comments mostly by the owners of other sports cars - some of them real sports cars, some of them just pretending to be that).
I had a 2005 Miata and did love to drive it. I felt it needed just a bit more power. At 145 HP is was sluggish, but still fun. Now with 181 HP I believe this is a real winner.
My 2020 MX-5 RF is truly amazing. I added. a cold air filter a chip that claims to add 60 hp. I don't think it added 60 hp but, 0-60 in 4.9 and top speed I have not attempted. I lifted half the pedal at 135 before it started to slow. I may put headers on it and a turbo. I replaced Toyo tires for the quiet ride on trips.36.3 highway and 29.5 city. The pcold flow air filter should be standard just that made a huge difference in mileage. It is the best car I've ever owned accept a 1981 Peugeot I put over 170,000 miles on that car maintenance was all I did. I have 70,000 on my MX5 just maintenance. The pleasure driving this car is FUN. All powerful on country roads, highway or city it is rejuvenating. I raced stock cars for 10 years, At 67 it gives more pleasure than the 2013 Mustang that used twice the gas..
Never put a turbo or supercharger on a ND1 / ND2 or ND3 without understanding one thing ! The transmission was designed for the 1.5 Liter engine ( 128 HP ). When the ND 1st was being designed North American Mazda Design engineer Dave Coleman invited Japanese Mazda counterparts to a meeting with US Miata enthusiasts. It was at that meeting it was decided the 1.5 Liter engine would not sell well in the US. The car was close to release so Mazda Engineering had a meeting to make the call on putting the 2.0 Liter engine mated to that already designed 1.5 Liter transmission design. It was decided this would be the solution & design limits being what they are + / - that transmission could handle the extra torque. Some of the internal parts of that transmission have been upgraded thru the years but its STILL the same 1.5 Liter transmission. Adding more HP without changing to the NC transmission / an oil cooler & some other hardware is NOT smart. A UA-camr Vitale has gone thru the heart ache / the trials of adding more power reliably ! Its an expensive journey to do it right. My advice is to learn from his mistakes & watch what he did before you make a big mistake.
As a german I have to admit that Mazda hit the pure driving feeling more like BMW with their Z4 . i remember my NA in my 20s . i had a lot of fun sliding through curves in the fall
Got introduced to a Miata back in the 90s. I'm tall but I managed to fit. I've owned many different cars and for fun to drive it wins. I'm driving a TL for more space, but when I feel like having fun I test drive. I drive off the lot to windy roads and the salesman drives it back. We both have fun and it doesn't cost a dime.
That removable hood looks amazing. It's like watching a synchronized show. My NC impresses me when I lower the hood for open top motoring. But I have to say, that fastback transformation takes the MX5 to another level.
I have a 2008 Miata (NC), I just love it! This ND is probably the best version to ever come out of the factory. However, my NC has just that extra interior space for comfort and it has a real hardtop that is 100% convertible. Buy any Miata generation and you’ll love it.
Wow!all the folks hating on this car is just awful. I have never needed to run down someone's car to feel good about mine. I brought my MX-5 to enjoy 4 myself,not to impress someone else.Everone should be free 2 have the car they want whitout needing a approval from others.other wise you have to question why you are making such a purchase.
I drove the abarth 124 for one week in the canary islands(tenerife and la palma); some of those drives I will never forget, be it just going back to out hotel, leaving the beach at the sunset, or getting up before first light and cooking the brakes on empty roads around Teide; going down from the La Palma observatory station is also on that list; great little car and that monza exhaust in the tunnels is terrific in the best way possible for such a small engine.
You can equal that experience here by buying the entry-level Sport model at $29k and with the thousands saved over the Club, use the aftermarket to configure your MX-5 to be superior to the Club.
I have the exact same car! I am in love with this car and is such a beautiful car with the Eternal Blue! I get told all the time how people love my car and how pretty it is! I chose the automatic. Just a fun car to drive!
I love the MX-5, however, I do not like the new wheel design. Mazda seems to like making all black or mostly all black wheels standard on all their vehicles. You are first reviewer I have listened too who addressed the new wheel design. Bravo!
The reason for an automatic is living and driving in a big crowded city. I just bought an 2022 auto as I did not know what would be best for me, and as Mazda no longer offer an auto in the UK, they are quite rare, so logic told me if I bought an auto and then decided to change to a manual, that would be a much easier way to do it. I pick up my car in 2 weeks when I have sold my Daihatsu Copen. Interestingly I looked at a Toyota GR86 and the automatic is as rare as Hens Teeth and sell immediately they are advertised, and the Mazda is similar, so there is a market for the auto. I will post again at a later date when I have experience of the automatic
@@cptndave1they're not common here anymore either, but I saw an SUV last week with a shark fin on the back with a backup camera in it and it was wild. I've never seen one like that before.
@@flolin8766 why no stop picking at pathetic little things and be grateful that Mazda seems to be the only brand still making the affordable real roadster.
Quote: “I don’t know the reason why anybody would pick the Automatic for this car.” Well, you might want to expand your thinking on that, as there are numerous reasons why the AT is preferable. Many people have a wide variety of disabilities which would prevent them from enjoying the Miata, and the AT allows them to do that. There are also many people who are just weary of driving a manual, for you are a slave to ALWAYS having to shift, like in congested city traffic. Enjoy drinking your coffee with ease with a manual? Nope. Keep both hands on the wheel during spirited driving? Nope. This AT is not just a boring old “Drive” mode; you can flip it over less than an inch to full manual mode, and shift up & down with the shifter. You can also use the paddle shifters, which is freakin’ amazing, and again, with both hands on the wheel. You also get “Sport Mode” which changes the shifting to a much more aggressive shift pattern when in “D”, and also changes the fuel delivery to the engine and just amps everything up. There are reasons why many high-end car manufacturers are no longer offering manual transmissions, so you may want to evolve your thinking on this matter.
Agree entirely. In. The U.K. you can only get AT in the RF. The other option is the Arbarth spider 124 that is based on the Mazda but uses a Fiat 1.4 turbo.
Manual is the purist's preference. Miatas are supposed to emulate the classic British roadsters where driver engagement is more important than convenience. Only the manual offers the LSD, which allows the best performance in the corners.
“Purist” may also mean fixed or rigid thinking, resistant to evolve. Believe me, I have more than enough driver engagement with the auto in manual mode, and not having to let go of the steering wheel in the twisties to shift is wonderful, and safer too. Not having a LSD on the track might be an issue, but so far I’ve not missed it at all on the street.
My friend just got a soft top convertible GT in automatic. I drove it. Used the paddle shifters and the steptronic. Wasn’t impressed. Would never buy this car in auto.
When you look at this car from the front it is smiling, you see the back, and it looks like a sad face. There is an arc that looks like a frown and the camera makes a nose. The Japanese build cars with human features that make us feel something just looking at it. They have a human expression that makes us connect with it on a more personal, or human level.
I've wanted an ND since 2016. It just keeps improving, I need to go for it. I happen to like the 2024 wheels. Snowflake white pearl on the RF is the best. Wish it had the black roof and black side mirrors. I do prefer the GT and RF. Those creature comforts add a bit of weight, and make it a little less pure of a roadster, but as I get older I want some of these luxuries. I'd prefer this to any Lexus or BMW. My wife has a CX-30 and we love it. Since Mazda doesn't have a premium brand ala Lexus/Infiniti/Acura, they don't have any reservations on making them as nice as they reasonably can.
I had the first and second styles. Loved them both. I don't like the type display screen this one has on any car. It looks like they made the car, then realized they forgot to install it. So, they just stood it up on the dash.
It really isn’t a lot in today’s money. Go convert that amount to 1990’s money, along with the MSRP of the base 1990’s Miata to 2025’s base version - surprised me to see what it was.
I have an ND2 and the quality of the rear camera image is not good. Did that improve on the ND3? I actually prefer the infortainment controls of the Miata over a touch-screen-only approach. It's very easy to get where you want to go once you learn to use it.
It's been almost a decade since the current gen was introduced, but the used car prices are pretty high. even in Japan you'll need 20K USD if you want a "decent" one.
True. My 2019 Sport cost me $24,480 cash. It’s a California car, never parked outside, still cherry with 23,400 miles on the clock. Edmunds estimates a private buyer would expect to pay $23,000 for it.
I still love the look of the 2nd generation the best for some reason but they look awesome can't go wrong with them. Just wonder if they make you pay a higher insurance price. Hope to afford a used one for a weekend car someday. I'm in the NW and we have all kinds of windy hilly roads that would be perfect for this car.
In the United States, the requirement for backup cameras on new vehicles was introduced by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and became effective on May 1, 2018
The head rest speakers with the Bose system act like rear speakers. Alone, they suck, but as a system it's really immersive. The sound system in the GT lets you pick between driver only or with a passenger. It's clever and sounds great. Typical Bose.
I'm very surprised by the positive feedback about rear speakers. Mine is a 2017 ND with Bose speakers. And the general sound quality is just Ok. Rear speakers are just for GPS indications and phone calls. Music sounds terribly bad....They are cheap testimonial speakers
@@jpm2641 It's all relative, compared to most audio systems I'm used to, they're great. They manage to work well enough over the wind noise with the top down, too.
I agree-😎🏁👍👍👍 it's a phantastic sports car- you don't need more.... Who cares max. Speed? Who cares 0-60? Light weight& Driving dynamics - that's the key points what makes a sports car! ... and it's affordable 😎👍👍👍
Bravo, bravo, bravíssimo!!! Você conseguiu resumir TUDO em poucas palavras. Bravo! Quem se importa com velocidade máxima e ter 500cv de potência? Isto só valeria se você fosse correr 50 ou 100 voltas num circuito todos os dias. Quem se importa com 0,5 segundo a mais ou a menos de 0 a 100? Leveza e dinâmica de direção são os pontos-chave de um carro esportivo e...ALÉM DE TUDO, AINDA É ACESSÍVEL! Parabéns pela suas palavras pois elas definitivamente encerram muitas discussões e jogam no lixo muitos comentários de invejosos.
The rear is styled very similar to a Jaguar F Type from the rear. I liked it from the 1st time I saw it. The now discontinued Fiat 124 Spyder had much different styling even though some of the interior components were shared. Was not a fan of that look. This MX-5 has a more stream lined outside.
I agree. There's no defined beltline, it just slopes downward. It's similar to their Mazda3 hatch, which looked better in previous gens. Having a shoulder defining that line, this car would look amazing.
I love these cars. The design is fantastic, looks like the baby sister of my Jaguar - such similar design cues, but everything is shrunk down. It's classic. I'd absolutely love one of these but at >6'4" I don't fit. I really hope they make the next one slightly bigger so I can consider it.
I need it & usually you don't pay that price ! You also forgot about the Recaro seats that have extra bolstering on the sides besides the Brembo brakes & the BBS wheels. Many people Buy the Sport model & put their own coil overs plus change the wheels. But you don't get the asymmetrical differential or the Bilstein shocks. So if your an enthusiast that saved up their money that BBR package on Club models is the way to go. EDIT - just saw the Sport DOES get the asymmetrical Differential for 2024.
It depends my friend. Do you plan on modifying the car? If yes, get the cheaper model. You just want the best package? Get the Sports package. It has also the better seats (Recaro), the Billstein dampers, front struts and front Brembos. Be aware tho, the Brembo package is ONLY front calipers. The disks are the same and the rear is identical.
@@junhuama68I have 2023 Club BBR. For me the brakes and seats are definitely worth it. It’s expensive but since I don’t plan on modifying it any time soon during the warranty period it’s just a lot easier and I don’t regret for a second adding the BBR package.
You can't think of a reason to get the auto? Here's two - license restriction and disability. Not everyone is just like you. The auto is fine as well, shifts quickly and smoothly and has a manual mode if you want that. Such a cliche for reviewers to make a snarky comment about the auto.
Except for the cheap plastic infotainment screen from the Walmart toy aisle and the cramped leg room, I agree with you. I do think the overt smiley face has always been cheesy. Still is. I agree with you too about your dislike of all black wheels. Circular black rims with black rubber tires is like wearing a navy blue blazer over black slacks. A brighter rim edge demarcates the wheels from the tires, giving each their own presence.
The AC problems and fudging leaks from heavy rain I get on the passenger wheel well are no joke. Especially in florida. Honestly love the drives but fudge is it not optimized for reliability here.
I've been daily driving these cars for over 15 years and they definitely need another gear on the top end. That should make them as awesome on the interstates as the twisties. As perfect as this car is, it's not quite there yet.
It's wonderful that the Miata has survived over three decades when so many iconic and amazing Japanese sports cars--the S2000, LFA, Mitsubishi EVO, Prelude, original NSX and original Supra--have disappeared, often long before their time. My feeling is that there are, unfortunately, not enough true car enthusiasts to support (buy) even the best sports models, and it's the rich guys who end up buying in volume. But these guys go for the snob factor, i.e. they want the BMW or Benz nameplate, not the Mazda or Honda which might actually be the better sports car.
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Just got mine 3 weeks ago. RF GT in aero gray. Daily commute 30 miles and I still come back on UA-cam every night to watch other ppl drive and review. It is that good.
Got mine a year ago and still do the same.
Do you think a 6’2 person would fit?
I'm 6'4 and fit pretty comfortably in one that I test drove the other day. Hard top model and I had about an inch clearance above my head and between my knees and the dashboard. I'd find one on a lot near you and try it out though because everyone is different
@@bensonchang8657 I thought I was the only one.
Weird
Driven every porsche driven basically everything worth driving ive been lucky. Drove this car and guess what it puts all the other cars to shame its the most fun car ive driven im getting one
You getting a Club with Brembo/Recaro package?
Ok enjoy your MX5 and forget about Porsche, everyone who owns an MX5 keeps mentioning Porsche a completely different car and segment. I agree that it’s a good car but owner have Porsche stamped in their subconscious mind, enjoy your car.
For real? That's excellent news! You don't need 500 hps to have fun (especially on public roads), so I would buy one too, I think.
Porsche is a man’s car.
It's fun, but my 981 S sounds amazing, handles better and has the right amount of power, 2 boots for weekends away and road trips. It's also built to last and the depreciation is mostly gone.
This is a nice fun 3rd car, but you would need to fit in it and I doubt it can handle the luggage required or eat up motorway miles when needed.
I’ve had mine 4 months now and love it. Best car I’ve ever owned!
Working at Mercedes I got the opportunity to drive all the sporty MB's and many traded in vehicles like 911's, the RS6 and more.
None of the cars were half as fun as the ND2 Miata I got to drive one day, getting a MX-5 Homura next year.
just got mine three months ago, in ST red soul and 1.5 version. This car is awesome. No words to explain the feeling of driving it
How is the paint quality on the front end? This one looks chipped already.
@@shizzydeep6867 4.500 km, ND 1.5 2024 red soul. I have not had any problems with the paint. I am very careful and do not go at high speed if I have a car near, in front of me. I also reduce speed if a big truck comes towards me on a narrow road...
Had my 1.5 since 2016 love the ultra lightness the 1.5 has over the other models.
As I live in Suffolk UK , the twisty country lanes are it's perfect home.
@@shizzydeep6867mines 8 years old and no worse than any other car I've had.
However Mazda's soul red is a three pack so hard to match perfectly
Dude I'm almost 50, been in love with cars my whole life and I've seen a lot of car reviews. I do plan on buying one of these a year from now when my cx30 is paid off. I love your take on it, love how you focused on it's curves, how it feels. A different take, thank you. Sub.
As a former owner of an NC PRHT, I must add that a big factor to the Miata fun is how the car is designed literally around the driver’s seat, so that as you make a turn, you stay in the center of the motion and the front and rear of the car rotate around you. This makes for a very connected feeling with the path of travel. You don’t even have to adjust your eyes as much to keep locked on where you’re going. It’s mainly a full-body center-of-gravity sensation, though. Haven’t felt that as much in any other car since
This is known as a “fuselage interior,” inspired by fighter plane design. This design language extends to the exterior in details like the body curving under the rocker panels instead of making a hard break to the car’s underside. Jaguar originated fuselage design. Malcolm Sayer, the designer of the XK-E, previously designed aircraft. He subjected his Jaguar cars to the same wind tunnel aero tuning as the planes he had worked on before.
@@johntechwriter I hope this is not the reason why Mazda doesn’t make cars with enough space in the second row)))) This is what pushes me away from this brand.
I have a 2020 Club with the Recaro pkg. I replaced the vinyl shift and parking brake boots with matching leather from Redline Goods. It really upscaled the interior. I also added their padded armrest for the console lid, I no longer hit the rotary switch by accident. It's my 5th Miata and I've put nearly a million miles on them and a million smiles on me.
Agree on your review of this 2024 RF GT model that if you want to really drive it hard the way to option it is the Club model. Also I love the convertible because of its simple top operation & the totally open feel it gives. Its less noisy than the RF with the top down & the windows up.
Its a little bit noisier with the top up than the RF but not b much. I have been daily driving a 2016 Club soft top with the Brembo / BBS wheels in 4 season weather. Its been the best most fun car I've owned but the changes have moved me to order a 2024 Club soft top with the BBR option.
Mazda is on fire with design. I absolutely love the CX-70 as well. ☮️💙
The entire brand is impeccable with their quality and their design. Prob the best auto maker on the planet 👌
With its straight six and perfect two-row size, the all-new CX 70 is redefining the midsize SUV.
I always wanted to buy a Miata since I was 16, but I live in Thailand now, and it costs $90,000 because of the import tax. It’s sad to see a nice, simple car like this turn into a really expensive one. (For anyone wondering, the import tax in Thailand is 300%. The same goes for brands like Lamborghini, BMW, and Rolls-Royce. Anything except Chinese and Japanese cars will cost 2 to 3 times more than in the US.) 😢😢
What a great review! In 2024, the Mazda Miata is the purist’s sports car we all need. Everything about the ND3 is perfection. I’ll take mine in soul red, club trim, in soft top form. I’ll skip the Brembo/BBS/Recaro package and go aftermarket. ~$34k in the lightest package.
Me acaban de dar mi MX5 2024 hace dos semanas y estoy demasiado contento con mi decisión.
que tream compraste y cuanto te costo?
@@MythicOpenJaime They took his left testiculo plus a pile of Euros !
I also LOVE this car! A RF, 6 speed manual, Club with the Performance Package in that stunning red metallic paint that Mazda does so well is the spec for me. Hopefully I will be able to get one soon. This is the kind of car for people who love driving regardless of the price point. That fact alone is something I will never take for granted especially when you consider the price of entry. Thanks for your insights. This car does look gorgeous! Subscribed!
Amen. Manual handbrake, Manual transmission, and an Analog gauge cluster. Other cars are just showpieces. This is the type of car that's all too rare nowadays - 100% made just for the fun experience of driving. Nowadays, aside from this car, the only car I really like that has a similar pure driving experience is the Nissan Skyline GTR R34, and that car is old and hard to find. I hope Mazda never retires the Miata with a manual, and keeps it nice and analog.
The only negative for me is the wireless key fob, I prefer traditional keys. And before you say I'm an old man, I'm literally Gen Z lol, but ever since I started driving (first car was a manual) and tried an automatic, it just wasn't the same. Not enough engagement with an automatic, its just plain boring. I like my equipment mechanical, analog, without too many fancy critical electronics. The interior of this car is great too. Very simple, functional, and elegant. Not super futuristic and cluttered like other cars. It manages to be modern and still pure at the same time. Simply amazing. This is the type of car that people who love driving get, even if they can afford one of those expensive supercars, they're all automatic nowadays.
Smiles per mile can't be beat!
Had our ND since 2016.
Still having as much fun as day one.
Very few cars once you get very familiar to it can do that.
I picked the Auto because of my knees. Turn on sport mode loads of fun!
Nobody should feel inferior because their transmission is automatic. Mazda is one of the few manufacturers who build their open transmissions, and the Miata 6-speed automatic is superb.
Thanks for 60fps so much smoother, Miata is looking nice, i want to see other colors now
White is not my first color choice but that car looks great combined with the tan interior.
I have an ND1 Soul red MT and it is a joyful thing. I do love the beige interior on this one.
I hear you on the interior colors, I really don't like the typical black interiors, softer colors for me. Cooler to the touch and just looks better to I think.
@@jimquantic Yeah, lighter interiors tend to keep my mood brighter.
Funny though it seems most people want all black
@@jimquantic I think that the Millennials drove the all black kind of look and they also dislike chrome or wood. The market responded to that generation’s tastes.
Club models ONLY come with the Black interiors for the ND. Tan ONLY comes in GT trim in the US. Happy they still make this spell binding roadster.
Miss my Miata, I have a Corvette C8 and love it, but lemme tell ya - the Miata is INCREDIBLE.
I've had my ND Sport since 10/15, 103,000 miles all seasons in New Hampshire. It is the perfect car for the twisty roads here. A year ago I added a Jaguar F-Type, a wonderful car but overkill for the roads. The Mazda is more enjoyable. The only modification has been Flyin' Miata Wilwood brakes, front and rear.
Had a BMW 328i convertible (Alpine white, top-of-the-line sports package) for nearly 20 years. Bought the MX-5 in 2019 (cosmetically very similar to the one being reviewed - RF, GT, Snowflake White Pearl, top-of-the-line package), thinking that I would keep both and drive them interchangeably, but ended up getting rid of the BMW just a couple of months after the purchase.
While I have missed the extra room in the back seats of the BMW, the ride quality of MX-5 more than compensates for any real or imaginary drawbacks (one could find those "imaginary" drawbacks in many comments mostly by the owners of other sports cars - some of them real sports cars, some of them just pretending to be that).
I had a 2005 Miata and did love to drive it. I felt it needed just a bit more power. At 145 HP is was sluggish, but still fun. Now with 181 HP I believe this is a real winner.
The ND is much quicker than the NA NB gens, and noticeably faster than the NCs.
@@mikeb9569 Is that with the 1.5 or 2.0 engine?
@@bartsullivan4866 2 liter, the only variant sold in the U.S.
I've always wondered why people rave about these given the anemic engine. Does it not feel weak due to the low weight?
For me the rear three-quarters view sells the RF. Too sweet.
My 2020 MX-5 RF is truly amazing. I added. a cold air filter a chip that claims to add 60 hp. I don't think it added 60 hp but, 0-60 in 4.9 and top speed I have not attempted. I lifted half the pedal at 135 before it started to slow. I may put headers on it and a turbo. I replaced Toyo tires for the quiet ride on trips.36.3 highway and 29.5 city. The pcold flow air filter should be standard just that made a huge difference in mileage.
It is the best car I've ever owned accept a 1981 Peugeot I put over 170,000 miles on that car maintenance was all I did. I have 70,000 on my MX5 just maintenance. The pleasure driving this car is FUN. All powerful on country roads, highway or city it is rejuvenating. I raced stock cars for 10 years, At 67 it gives more pleasure than the 2013 Mustang that used twice the gas..
Never put a turbo or supercharger on a ND1 / ND2 or ND3 without understanding one thing ! The transmission was designed for the 1.5 Liter engine ( 128 HP ). When the ND 1st was being designed North American Mazda Design engineer Dave Coleman invited Japanese Mazda counterparts to a meeting with US Miata enthusiasts. It was at that meeting it was decided the 1.5 Liter engine would not sell well in the US. The car was close to release so Mazda Engineering had a meeting to make the call on putting the 2.0 Liter engine mated to that already designed 1.5 Liter transmission design. It was decided this would be the solution & design limits being what they are + / - that transmission could handle the extra torque. Some of the internal parts of that transmission have been upgraded thru the years but its STILL the same 1.5 Liter transmission. Adding more HP without changing to the NC transmission / an oil cooler & some other hardware is NOT smart. A UA-camr Vitale has gone thru the heart ache / the trials of adding more power reliably ! Its an expensive journey to do it right.
My advice is to learn from his mistakes & watch what he did before you make a big mistake.
@@ag4allgoodpriceless advice- much appreciated good sir.
The blind leading the blind.
As a german I have to admit that Mazda hit the pure driving feeling more like BMW with their Z4 . i remember my NA in my 20s . i had a lot of fun sliding through curves in the fall
Got introduced to a Miata back in the 90s. I'm tall but I managed to fit. I've owned many different cars and for fun to drive it wins. I'm driving a TL for more space, but when I feel like having fun I test drive. I drive off the lot to windy roads and the salesman drives it back. We both have fun and it doesn't cost a dime.
Hello fellow TL owner, what year is yours?
That removable hood looks amazing. It's like watching a synchronized show. My NC impresses me when I lower the hood for open top motoring. But I have to say, that fastback transformation takes the MX5 to another level.
I have a 2008 Miata (NC), I just love it! This ND is probably the best version to ever come out of the factory. However, my NC has just that extra interior space for comfort and it has a real hardtop that is 100% convertible. Buy any Miata generation and you’ll love it.
Goes without saying, Miata is always the answer.
What are you smoking?
@@g.w.7893smoking the Z4s exhaust
Wow!all the folks hating on this car is just awful. I have never needed to run down someone's car to feel good about mine. I brought my MX-5 to enjoy 4 myself,not to impress someone else.Everone should be free 2 have the car they want whitout needing a approval from others.other wise you have to question why you are making such a purchase.
I have the Fiat version of the ND Miata and it is truly a joy to drive. It won’t win many stop light races, but it’s super fun.
I drove the abarth 124 for one week in the canary islands(tenerife and la palma); some of those drives I will never forget, be it just going back to out hotel, leaving the beach at the sunset, or getting up before first light and cooking the brakes on empty roads around Teide; going down from the La Palma observatory station is also on that list; great little car and that monza exhaust in the tunnels is terrific in the best way possible for such a small engine.
I love the styling of the new 124s, I had a 1978 back in the day. I have a 2020 MX5 Club now, but wouldn't mind having a Fiat either.
Wow…I have a miata (nd2) and you convinced me to buy another one. Very well explained and appreciation to the design and what miata represents.
I agree. I’ve had a ND2 since 2019 and you always want to get in and drive it.
3 minutes ago and 6 likes already, a miata always gets the love it deserves
Cant wait to get one when i finish college
This Miata looks happy 😊
Recently bought the 2016 2.0 recaro in white just love the car and its looks,only made 600 of this model,just booked in for service👍🥳
Maybe the best part of the interior (everyone should do this) is, the center screen reduces to ONLY the clock. No distractions.
And how do you do that?
@@redfish7081 click two times home button
Fun fact: in Japan Mazda has the NR-A clubsport spec which comes with adjustable Bilstein suspension, manual AC, and 1 less cupholder.
You can equal that experience here by buying the entry-level Sport model at $29k and with the thousands saved over the Club, use the aftermarket to configure your MX-5 to be superior to the Club.
It will be great with white wheels.
I have a 2019 eternal blue GT RF and love it. The only external change I have made is replacing that antenna with a stub antenna. 🙂
I have the exact same car! I am in love with this car and is such a beautiful car with the Eternal Blue! I get told all the time how people love my car and how pretty it is! I chose the automatic. Just a fun car to drive!
I love the MX-5, however, I do not like the new wheel design. Mazda seems to like making all black or mostly all black wheels standard on all their vehicles. You are first reviewer I have listened too who addressed the new wheel design. Bravo!
Did you guys see that LIME RUSH 5th Gen 4Runner @ 22:49 ?
And at 20:55 there is an SR5!
BOSS !
The reason for an automatic is living and driving in a big crowded city. I just bought an 2022 auto as I did not know what would be best for me, and as Mazda no longer offer an auto in the UK, they are quite rare, so logic told me if I bought an auto and then decided to change to a manual, that would be a much easier way to do it. I pick up my car in 2 weeks when I have sold my Daihatsu Copen. Interestingly I looked at a Toyota GR86 and the automatic is as rare as Hens Teeth and sell immediately they are advertised, and the Mazda is similar, so there is a market for the auto. I will post again at a later date when I have experience of the automatic
Best car ever
I think the main thing people want to know from Mazda mx5 reviews is the height of reviewer and is it comfy to sit in it for him
The reverse camera could go into the shark fin on the trunk lid.
We don’t even have the shark fin on the boot lid in Australia 😂
@@cptndave1they're not common here anymore either, but I saw an SUV last week with a shark fin on the back with a backup camera in it and it was wild. I've never seen one like that before.
Why not have it right above the licence plate?
@@flolin8766 why no stop picking at pathetic little things and be grateful that Mazda seems to be the only brand still making the affordable real roadster.
@@flolin8766 It is placed exactly there in my 2017 ND
I love its front face, it's like 😁
I have an NDRF, I always saw the backup camera as the ND’s back face nose. Lol
I like this Mazda go kart 👍
Amazing car. White / tan is beautiful, agree about the wheels.
Quote: “I don’t know the reason why anybody would pick the Automatic for this car.” Well, you might want to expand your thinking on that, as there are numerous reasons why the AT is preferable. Many people have a wide variety of disabilities which would prevent them from enjoying the Miata, and the AT allows them to do that. There are also many people who are just weary of driving a manual, for you are a slave to ALWAYS having to shift, like in congested city traffic. Enjoy drinking your coffee with ease with a manual? Nope. Keep both hands on the wheel during spirited driving? Nope. This AT is not just a boring old “Drive” mode; you can flip it over less than an inch to full manual mode, and shift up & down with the shifter. You can also use the paddle shifters, which is freakin’ amazing, and again, with both hands on the wheel. You also get “Sport Mode” which changes the shifting to a much more aggressive shift pattern when in “D”, and also changes the fuel delivery to the engine and just amps everything up. There are reasons why many high-end car manufacturers are no longer offering manual transmissions, so you may want to evolve your thinking on this matter.
Agree entirely. In. The U.K. you can only get AT in the RF. The other option is the Arbarth spider 124 that is based on the Mazda but uses a Fiat 1.4 turbo.
Manual is the purist's preference. Miatas are supposed to emulate the classic British roadsters where driver engagement is more important than convenience. Only the manual offers the LSD, which allows the best performance in the corners.
“Purist” may also mean fixed or rigid thinking, resistant to evolve. Believe me, I have more than enough driver engagement with the auto in manual mode, and not having to let go of the steering wheel in the twisties to shift is wonderful, and safer too. Not having a LSD on the track might be an issue, but so far I’ve not missed it at all on the street.
My friend just got a soft top convertible GT in automatic. I drove it. Used the paddle shifters and the steptronic. Wasn’t impressed. Would never buy this car in auto.
I prefer manuals hundred percent of the time, even in city traffic.
Great vehicle. I wish they would have finally retired that old-school rear-side antennae though on the 2024 refresh, & relocated that rear camera.
Beautiful review!
When you look at this car from the front it is smiling, you see the back, and it looks like a sad face. There is an arc that looks like a frown and the camera makes a nose. The Japanese build cars with human features that make us feel something just looking at it. They have a human expression that makes us connect with it on a more personal, or human level.
I've wanted an ND since 2016. It just keeps improving, I need to go for it.
I happen to like the 2024 wheels. Snowflake white pearl on the RF is the best. Wish it had the black roof and black side mirrors. I do prefer the GT and RF. Those creature comforts add a bit of weight, and make it a little less pure of a roadster, but as I get older I want some of these luxuries. I'd prefer this to any Lexus or BMW.
My wife has a CX-30 and we love it. Since Mazda doesn't have a premium brand ala Lexus/Infiniti/Acura, they don't have any reservations on making them as nice as they reasonably can.
I had the first and second styles. Loved them both. I don't like the type display screen this one has on any car. It looks like they made the car, then realized they forgot to install it. So, they just stood it up on the dash.
To achieve the "perfect" look, the car should "have" a quad exhaust tips.
My 2024 RF GT Soul Red crystal metallic has the dual exhaust tips. BUMMER!
17:50 mazda 2 also gives you that sensation
$38.000 for a mazda miata. What a time to be alive...
It really isn’t a lot in today’s money. Go convert that amount to 1990’s money, along with the MSRP of the base 1990’s Miata to 2025’s base version - surprised me to see what it was.
I have an ND2 and the quality of the rear camera image is not good. Did that improve on the ND3? I actually prefer the infortainment controls of the Miata over a touch-screen-only approach. It's very easy to get where you want to go once you learn to use it.
I do not understand people complaining about that backup camera. It’s for backing up! And for that purpose it is entirely adequate.
My ‘90 certainly was perfect. Great fun. Perfect car for Tucson at the time.
It's been almost a decade since the current gen was introduced, but the used car prices are pretty high. even in Japan you'll need 20K USD if you want a "decent" one.
True. My 2019 Sport cost me $24,480 cash. It’s a California car, never parked outside, still cherry with 23,400 miles on the clock. Edmunds estimates a private buyer would expect to pay $23,000 for it.
I love the tan leather interior.
Remind me of my old 1971 240z
I still love the look of the 2nd generation the best for some reason but they look awesome can't go wrong with them. Just wonder if they make you pay a higher insurance price. Hope to afford a used one for a weekend car someday. I'm in the NW and we have all kinds of windy hilly roads that would be perfect for this car.
I’m planning to buy one soon. I liked white colour.
U have excellent reviews man excellent work ❤❤
In the United States, the requirement for backup cameras on new vehicles was introduced by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and became effective on May 1, 2018
Just gorgeous
I love the 2024 Miata. I have one on order. I totally disagree with you about the wheels. I think they look great!
So do I. Great design. Picking up my new red RF in two weeks!
Nice review, but don't go for the club sport spec guys! Upgrade with aftermarket parts insted, much better and much cheeper!
I got mine in 2020, 2.0ST, red. I thought i would have it for a couple years and flip it. The miata is staying with me till I can't enter it.
Great review. Thanks!
im saving money to buy this sports car!! just a couple more yrs and i'll be ready to buy :)
How is the headrest speaker quality? Does it have good bass?
Bad
The headrest speakers work great for the higher frequencies (which are more directional). The bass is provided by a subwoofer and sounds great, IMO.
The head rest speakers with the Bose system act like rear speakers. Alone, they suck, but as a system it's really immersive. The sound system in the GT lets you pick between driver only or with a passenger. It's clever and sounds great. Typical Bose.
I'm very surprised by the positive feedback about rear speakers. Mine is a 2017 ND with Bose speakers. And the general sound quality is just Ok. Rear speakers are just for GPS indications and phone calls. Music sounds terribly bad....They are cheap testimonial speakers
@@jpm2641 It's all relative, compared to most audio systems I'm used to, they're great. They manage to work well enough over the wind noise with the top down, too.
Some people need to drive automatic due to various alments so just be mindful
I agree-😎🏁👍👍👍
it's a phantastic sports car- you don't need more.... Who cares max. Speed? Who cares 0-60? Light weight& Driving dynamics - that's the key points what makes a sports car!
... and it's affordable 😎👍👍👍
Bravo, bravo, bravíssimo!!! Você conseguiu resumir TUDO em poucas palavras. Bravo! Quem se importa com velocidade máxima e ter 500cv de potência? Isto só valeria se você fosse correr 50 ou 100 voltas num circuito todos os dias. Quem se importa com 0,5 segundo a mais ou a menos de 0 a 100? Leveza e dinâmica de direção são os pontos-chave de um carro esportivo e...ALÉM DE TUDO, AINDA É ACESSÍVEL! Parabéns pela suas palavras pois elas definitivamente encerram muitas discussões e jogam no lixo muitos comentários de invejosos.
And even if you look at 0 to 60 5.7 for a little 181 horsepower 4 cylinder non turbo car is no slug. A Honda Accord coupe with a mm V6 is 5.5 0 to 60.
picked the auto because it’s convenient and i’m not a car nerd lol
What do you do if your over 6ft doh?
I got rid of all my german cars and got a MX5 grand touring, will mever look back
Yeah, my out-of-warranty 3-series was eating me out of house and home. Never again!
@@johntechwriter Im buying a mini cooper JCW today, LoL!! wish me luck😁✌️
I like this design, but I would like to see them update it even more especially the rear. I’ve never been a huge fan of the rear
The rear is styled very similar to a Jaguar F Type from the rear. I liked it from the 1st time I saw it. The now discontinued Fiat 124 Spyder had much different styling even though some of the interior components were shared. Was not a fan of that look. This MX-5 has a more stream lined outside.
Really Should be grateful they still make this true roadster. All the others have come and gone. This one still remains. No competition
I agree. There's no defined beltline, it just slopes downward. It's similar to their Mazda3 hatch, which looked better in previous gens.
Having a shoulder defining that line, this car would look amazing.
I like your commentary, i never even noticed the ac vents with the hazard button match the rear tail light.
I miss the SNAKE FANG LEDS IN FRONT, of the ND2 ❤
Aftermarket fog lights would work well in those slots.
I love these cars. The design is fantastic, looks like the baby sister of my Jaguar - such similar design cues, but everything is shrunk down. It's classic. I'd absolutely love one of these but at >6'4" I don't fit. I really hope they make the next one slightly bigger so I can consider it.
Do you need the brambo/bbs package? It is 5K more. Is it worth it?
I need it & usually you don't pay that price ! You also forgot about the Recaro seats that have extra bolstering on the sides besides the Brembo brakes & the BBS wheels. Many people Buy the Sport model & put their own coil overs plus change the wheels. But you don't get the asymmetrical differential or the Bilstein shocks. So if your an enthusiast that saved up their money that BBR package on Club models is the way to go. EDIT - just saw the Sport DOES get the asymmetrical Differential for 2024.
@@ag4allgood so It would more expensive if I buy the brambo/bbs/ricaro seats separately?
It depends my friend. Do you plan on modifying the car? If yes, get the cheaper model.
You just want the best package? Get the Sports package. It has also the better seats (Recaro), the Billstein dampers, front struts and front Brembos. Be aware tho, the Brembo package is ONLY front calipers. The disks are the same and the rear is identical.
@@totalmadnesman I meant do you feel a 5000 dollar difference with that package?
@@junhuama68I have 2023 Club BBR. For me the brakes and seats are definitely worth it. It’s expensive but since I don’t plan on modifying it any time soon during the warranty period it’s just a lot easier and I don’t regret for a second adding the BBR package.
You can't think of a reason to get the auto? Here's two - license restriction and disability. Not everyone is just like you. The auto is fine as well, shifts quickly and smoothly and has a manual mode if you want that. Such a cliche for reviewers to make a snarky comment about the auto.
Most people want a purist driving experience. And you get that with a manual transmission.
Except for the cheap plastic infotainment screen from the Walmart toy aisle and the cramped leg room, I agree with you. I do think the overt smiley face has always been cheesy. Still is. I agree with you too about your dislike of all black wheels. Circular black rims with black rubber tires is like wearing a navy blue blazer over black slacks. A brighter rim edge demarcates the wheels from the tires, giving each their own presence.
The only flaw is the numb steering feel on my ND series 1 I had. Hope they fixed it
I love 2024 design..
The AC problems and fudging leaks from heavy rain I get on the passenger wheel well are no joke. Especially in florida. Honestly love the drives but fudge is it not optimized for reliability here.
What are the AC problems? I'm in Florida too and considering a ND Miata
11:03 Oh lol, the air conditioning controls have exactly the same design as my 2006 Subaru Forester SG
Does mx5 have fade out "heartbeat" sequence turn signals like the rest of the Mazda lineup? It kind of looks like it does but I can't tell.
Yes😊
Your right the new miata is magnificent
This is what the Corvette should be.
No, no, no. Let Corvette be Corvette.
I've been daily driving these cars for over 15 years and they definitely need another gear on the top end. That should make them as awesome on the interstates as the twisties. As perfect as this car is, it's not quite there yet.
It's wonderful that the Miata has survived over three decades when so many iconic and amazing Japanese sports cars--the S2000, LFA, Mitsubishi EVO, Prelude, original NSX and original Supra--have disappeared, often long before their time. My feeling is that there are, unfortunately, not enough true car enthusiasts to support (buy) even the best sports models, and it's the rich guys who end up buying in volume. But these guys go for the snob factor, i.e. they want the BMW or Benz nameplate, not the Mazda or Honda which might actually be the better sports car.
Good point about the wheel design. I don’t really like it either and it looks strange if you really focus on it.