2025 Mazda MX-5 Miata Review

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Overview

Mazda has been refining the Miata for over 30 years, and the 2025 model stands as a testament to that dedication—an affordable sports car that delivers an exceptionally pure driving experience. Whether you choose the traditional soft-top roadster or the sleek RF (Retractable Fastback) version with its power-folding targa roof, the 2025 Mazda MX-5 Miata serves up the same well-honed recipe of agility, character, and charm.

Under the hood is a lively 181-hp 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that thrives on high revs and pairs beautifully with the slick six-speed manual transmission, though a smooth automatic is also offered. Steering is sharp and precise, and the car’s lightweight, well-balanced chassis makes for an athletic handler. That said, the Miata’s ride can feel firm over rough pavement, and its compact dimensions mean limited interior space—particularly for taller drivers—and minimal storage, including a very small trunk.

Still, for weekend getaways or spirited drives along winding roads, the 2025 Mazda MX-5 Miata offers unmatched driver engagement. Its classic roadster formula, enhanced by decades of careful tuning, secures its spot not only as a segment standout but also as a 2025 Editors’ Choice pick.

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When Is the 2025 Mazda MX-5 Miata Coming Out?

The 2025 Mazda MX-5 Miata is set to hit dealerships in late summer 2024, with preorders expected to open by mid-year. Availability will roll out across the U.S. and other global markets shortly after.

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What’s New for 2025?

Following a round of updates in the previous model year, the 2025 Mazda MX-5 Miata carries forward largely unchanged. However, Mazda is marking the occasion with a special 35th Anniversary Edition, produced in limited numbers to celebrate the model’s storied legacy.

Only 300 units of this commemorative model will be offered in the United States, each finished in Artisan Red Metallic and dressed with a luxurious tan Nappa leather interior. Based on the well-equipped Grand Touring trim, the 35th Anniversary Edition includes premium touches like heated seats, a Bose premium sound system, and built-in navigation.

This limited-edition Miata isn’t about major changes—it’s a refined tribute to a sports car icon.

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Pricing and Which One to Buy

The 2025 Mazda MX-5 Miata starts at $30,515 and tops out around $42,285, depending on trim level and optional equipment.

Trim	Estimated Price (USD)
Sport	$30,515
Club	$34,465
Grand Touring	$35,815
35th Anniversary Edition	$37,435
Grand Touring RF	$38,535
Club RF	$42,285

While the base model holds strong appeal with its back-to-basics sports car purity, we recommend the Club trim with the soft top as the sweet spot in the lineup. For those wanting more performance and refinement, consider adding the Brembo/BBS/Recaro package (an additional $4,900). This bundle upgrades the braking system, adds lightweight alloy wheels, and swaps in race-inspired Recaro sport seats for enhanced support.

Looking for a more premium and performance-oriented option? The RF Club trim might be your match. It comes standard with all of the above upgrades, plus tuned suspension components, a track-ready drive mode, a limited-slip differential, and unique aerodynamic elements—all wrapped in the Miata’s sleek retractable fastback form.

No matter the trim, the 2025 Mazda MX-5 Miata offers fun per dollar that’s tough to beat.

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Engine, Transmission, and Performance

The 2025 Mazda MX-5 Miata might not overwhelm with sheer horsepower, but its rev-happy 2.0-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder more than makes up for it with spirited character and eager acceleration—especially when paired with the car’s ultra-lightweight chassis.

The heart of the driving experience lies in the six-speed manual transmission, which delivers short, precise shifts that encourage you to wring out every last RPM. Even the available automatic transmission is well-tuned, providing crisp gear changes and sport-oriented behavior that doesn’t dull the excitement.

While the Miata’s ride leans firm—particularly in the Club trim, which features the stiffest suspension tuning—it rarely feels uncomfortable. Expect a bit of bounce over uneven or broken pavement, but nothing that detracts from the car’s engaging nature.

Handling is where the Miata truly shines. Its nimble, lightweight feel, responsive chassis, and quick, communicative steering make every drive a joy. It dances through corners with agility and poise, offering a level of tactile feedback and fun that’s increasingly rare in modern cars.

Plain and simple, the Miata is built for driving enjoyment—and it delivers.

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0–60-MPH Times

In performance testing, the 2024 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF Club equipped with the six-speed manual transmission accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.5 seconds. While not blisteringly fast by sports car standards, the Miata’s lightweight design and snappy throttle response make it feel quicker than the numbers suggest, especially on twisty roads where agility matters more than outright speed.

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Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

Thanks to its lightweight construction, the 2025 Mazda MX-5 Miata scores another win—this time at the gas pump. Its 2.0-liter engine doesn’t have much weight to move, which helps it achieve impressive EPA estimates of up to 26 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway.

In real-world testing on a 200-mile highway route, a 2024 RF Club model with the six-speed manual transmission actually exceeded expectations, returning an impressive 36 mpg.

Transmission	City	Highway	Combined
Manual	26 MPG	34 MPG	29 MPG
Automatic	27 MPG	35 MPG	30 MPG

For complete and up-to-date fuel economy ratings, you can visit the EPA’s official website.

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Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

Climbing into the 2025 Mazda MX-5 Miata feels more like slipping into a tailored suit than simply taking a seat. The cabin is snug—cozy for two adults—and purpose-built around the essentials of driving pleasure. You won’t find excess here, but what is present is smartly arranged and thoughtfully finished.

Material quality is solid, with available leather upholstery and tasteful touches like body-colored trim along the door tops that add a splash of character. While some may find the minimalist layout a bit stark, enthusiasts will appreciate the clear focus on driving fundamentals: steering wheel, pedals, shifter, and tachometer—all within easy reach, and all tuned for engagement.

Storage space inside is limited. Cupholders are removable and repositionable, but don’t expect deep bins or glovebox capacity. A tiny trunk and a narrow cubby between the seatbacks are about all you get. With no rear seats or fold-down panels, the Miata’s cargo flexibility is virtually nonexistent.

That said, pack efficiently and the Miata can handle a weekend trip for two. But if cargo space is a priority, rivals like the Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR86 offer significantly more utility, including folding rear seats and the ability to haul larger items—like a full set of track wheels or multiple suitcases.

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Infotainment and Connectivity

Every 2025 Mazda MX-5 Miata comes equipped with an 8.8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, offering a clean, modern interface that’s easy to navigate. While the screen is touch-capable, Mazda wisely includes a center-console control knob and a few well-placed physical buttons for quick and distraction-free operation—especially helpful when driving with the top down.

Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth connectivity come standard, ensuring seamless smartphone integration across the board. For those looking to elevate their audio experience, an available Bose premium sound system brings impressive clarity, complete with headrest-mounted speakers for a more immersive, top-down listening experience.

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Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

The 2025 Mazda MX-5 Miata comes well-equipped with a suite of standard driver-assistance technologies designed to enhance safety and confidence on the road. Key features include:

• Automated emergency braking paired with forward-collision warning to help prevent or reduce the severity of frontal crashes

• Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert to assist with lane changes and backing up safely

• Adaptive cruise control, which maintains a set distance from the vehicle ahead, making highway driving less stressful

For detailed crash-test results and overall safety ratings, you can visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites.

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Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

The 2025 Mazda MX-5 Miata offers standard warranty coverage that’s on par with its closest competitors, the Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR86. However, unlike the GR86, which includes two years of complimentary scheduled maintenance, the Miata does not offer any free maintenance services.

• Limited warranty: 3 years or 36,000 miles

• Powertrain warranty: 5 years or 60,000 miles

• Scheduled maintenance: No complimentary coverage included

If routine maintenance perks are important to you, this is one area where the Miata falls a bit short compared to the Toyota GR86.

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2025 Mazda MX-5 Miata – Full Specifications

 

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Final Verdict

The 2025 Mazda MX-5 Miata proves that sometimes, evolution is better than revolution. It’s not the most powerful car on the road, nor the most practical—but for those who value connection, balance, and unfiltered fun, it remains one of the best sports cars on sale today.

With thoughtful tech upgrades, sharper handling, and a fresh face, the latest Miata keeps its legend alive. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a newcomer to the roadster lifestyle, the 2025 MX-5 delivers grins mile after mile.

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2025 Mazda MX-5 Miata Videos