For years, the Mazda MX-5 Miata has remained one of the most affordable sports cars in America. A convertible roof further adds to this roadster’s appeal.

Let’s take an inside look at the 2019 Mazda MX-5 Miata.

Trims

  • Sport: $25,730
  • Club: $29,590
  • Grand Touring: $30,780
  • Club RF: $32,345
  • Grand Touring RF: $33,335

Performance Specs

Under the hood of the 2019 Mazda MX-5 Miata remains a 2.0-liter, SkyActiv four-cylinder engine. However, it has been revised to produce more power. Total production has increased to 181 horsepower and 151 pound-feet of torque. A higher 7500-rpm redline makes the new MX-5 Miata even more entertaining to drive. While serious driving enthusiasts will likely choose the standard six-speed manual transmission, six-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters is optional.

On the road, the new MX-5 Miata definitely feels peppier. According to Car and Driver, it can hit 60 mph in around 5.7 seconds. This is great news for the drivers who have been demanding more performance.

As always, the MX-5 Miata continues to offer sensational handling. A lightweight design helps it to dominate curves. This is one of the reasons why it has become one of the most popular cars for amateur racers. An available sports-tuned suspension and limited-slip differential enable the MX-5 Miata to deliver an even more impressive performance on the track.

Gas Mileage

Unlike some sports cars, the 2019 Mazda MX-5 Miata is great on gas. In fact, the fuel economy is actually better than before.

Automatic models can return an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in town and 35 mpg on the highway. Rated to deliver 26 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway, manual-equipped Miata trims are only a tad less efficient. Unsurprisingly, Mazda recommends premium unleaded gas for optimum performance.

Entertainment Features

On the inside, the new MX-5 Miata welcomes you to a race-bred cockpit. Performance gauges and aluminum pedals create an exciting atmosphere. For the first time, a telescoping steering wheel comes equipped on the Miata. This valuable feature helps to give drivers a more relaxing driving position.

Despite being a car that’s focused on delivering driving excitement, the 2019 Mazda MX-5 Miata still comes loaded with ample technology. You will certainly appreciate this two-seater’s new backup camera, which gives you a greater sense of awareness in parking areas.

Mazda Connect is another great feature that comes standard. A center-console knob controller enables you to easily operate the 7.0-inch touchscreen. By placing the display above the dash, Mazda makes it easier for drivers to stay focused on the road. Some of the other standard features include Bluetooth, a six-speaker stereo system, and two USB ports.

If you’re serious about your music, step up to the available nine-speaker Bose stereo system. Even when riding with the top down, this premium audio system impresses with its high-quality sound. Headrest speakers enable you to clearly hear your favorite songs over any wind noise.

Safety Features

The 2019 Mazda MX-5 Miata comes standard with the basic safety equipment like front/side airbags and traction control. You’ll also benefit from a tire pressure monitor.

For drivers who desire more security on the road, Mazda offers an i-Activsense package. This driver-assist safety package is offered on every trim. Designed to activate your brakes at low speeds, Smart City Brake Support makes driving in heavy traffic less stressful. Meanwhile, blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic detection uncovers hidden vehicles. Lane departure warning is included as well.

An Adaptive Front-Lighting system is found on the more luxurious Grand Touring trim. When driving on rural roads, these headlights turn to better illuminate the road.

Pros

Budget-Friendly Sports Car

If you don’t have a lot of money to spend on a new sports car, the 2019 Mazda MX-5 Miata will prove to be an outstanding choice. It’s one of the few true sports cars that have a starting price of less than $30,000. Strong fuel economy and a low cost of maintenance also helps make the Miata a genuine bang for the buck.

RF Hardtop Model

The standard soft top is great for summertime driving. However, RF models feature a power-retractable hardtop. Not only does the hardtop give the Miata RF a sleeker profile, but it also better protects the car during bad weather. You’ll especially appreciate the extra insulation during the wintertime.

A Blast to Drive

When it comes to overall driving excitement, the 2019 Mazda MX-5 Miata can compete with sports cars that are far more expensive. Handling is outstanding. It’s a great car for tackling twisty back roads and a solid option for competing on the track.

Cons

May Be Too Small for Some Drivers

While the Miata has grown over the years, it’s still a small car. Some drivers will ultimately desire a bit more room to spread out.

Final Thoughts

For good reason, the Miata is among the best-selling sports cars in history. Affordability and a fun-to-drive factor make it hard to resist. Improved performance and more standard equipment give you more reason to consider the new 2019 Mazda MX-5 Miata as your next vehicle.

Autoversed

This article was worked on by a variety of people from the Autoversed team, including freelancers, editors, and/or other full-time employees.