2023 Mazda MX-5 Miata review

1. Engaging drive

The 2023 Mazda MX-5 Miata is built for one thing: driving pleasure. Its precise steering and athletic handling make it a joy to drive, especially on curvy roads. The rear-wheel-drive layout adds to the car's engaging dynamics, ensuring enjoy every moment as you navigate through twists and turns. This is a sports car, but it's not about straight-line speed, it's about the whole experience from sitting in the driver's seat to putting your foot down to experiencing the low center of gravity through the corners.

2. Balanced performance

The 181-horsepower engine gives balanced performance. Because the 2023 MX-5 Miata is a lightweight sports car, that powertrain is enough for a spirited drive while also balancing fuel economy. The 2.0L automatic model gets an EPA-estimated 30 mpg combined while the manual gets 29 mpg.

3. Practical soft top

The 2023 MX-5 Miata's soft top adds a layer of practicality to this sports car. It allows for open-top fun, letting you enjoy the wind in your hair and the sun on your face. While it's not automatic, it's surprisingly easy to operate. You can even open and close it with just one hand.

4. Great daily driver

Some sports cars offer a stiff ride that sacrifices comfort but Mazda has found a great balance with the MX-5 Miata. Bumps in the road are smoothed out for added comfort and you've got a decent amount of technology in the cabin. The base model has cruise control alongside Apple CarPlay^® and Android Auto^™ integration to make driving easier and more fun. While space isn't abundant, most drivers will find it enough with 43.1 inches of legroom.

5. Sports-car style

Perhaps one of the best things about the MX-5 is its good looks. Along with the engaging driving dynamics, this looks like a sports car. The sportiest 2023 model is the Club trim, which adds plenty of interior features (such as heated seats and a Bose® sound system) as well as a few design details such as contrast stitching, a black front lip, and a rear spoiler. Look out for Club models with the available Brembo^® package that adds Recaro sports seats, Brembo brakes, and an aerodynamic body kit.