2022 Mazda MX-5 Miata Trim Levels, Configurations & Comparisons.

The 2022 Mazda MX-5 Miata is pound for pound one of the best convertible sports cars on the market. Although this Japanese roadster may not be as fast as a Porsche 911, it still delivers an incredibly entertaining driving experience. Many people love the MX-5 Miata’s spot-on handling and zippy acceleration. Available performance upgrades also make this car a great match for amateur track enthusiasts.

Unlike some other sports cars, the MX-5 Miata isn’t just regulated to weekend duties. Competitive fuel economy and a surprisingly pleasant ride make it ideal for daily commuting. All versions of the MX-5 Miata feature a convertible roof, which enables drivers to enjoy some serious fun with the top down. Affordable pricing gives sports car fans more reason to choose the new MX-5 Miata over the competition.

Just a few key changes were made to the 2022 lineup. Mazda no longer offers the lower trim levels with an automatic transmission. Mazda has also updated its popular sports car with Kinematic Posture Control technology, which seeks to further improve handling on the street and around the track. Meanwhile, drivers who use an iPhone will appreciate the availability of wireless Apple CarPlay.

When hunting for a new 2022 Mazda MX-5 Miata, car shoppers will be able to select from three trim levels. Here’s a glance at how these trims compare.

Compare the Sport vs Club trims. What is the Difference?

The MX-5 Miata Sport is the perfect pick for drivers seeking an affordable yet deluxe ride. Offered at a wallet-friendly price point of under $28,000, this trim provides optimal comfort and convenience without breaking the bank. Boasting manual soft top capabilities with easy setup – complete luxury can be yours in no time!

The Sport trim is motivated by a 2.0-liter, DOHC four-cylinder engine. Mazda’s impressive SkyActiv technology helps this low-maintenance engine to deliver a solid performance. According to Mazda, it presses out a gratifying 181 horsepower. Because of the MX-5 Miata’s super-light curb weight, drivers can enjoy spry acceleration. A 0-60 mph time of 5.7 seconds enables the MX-5 Miata Sport to keep pace with its key rivals.

Rev up your engine with the Miata's Sport trim. Effortless operation and a short-throw shifter provide an abundance of driving excitement, while rear-wheel drive gives you maximum control. You'll have to sacrifice some traction in inclement weather conditions, but it won't stop enthusiasts from savoring every mile behind the wheel!

The Sport trim’s standard suspension is aggressive enough for most people. It enables the car to hug corners without compromising ride comfort. For the 2022 model year, Mazda has updated the car with an all-new Kinematic Posture Control system. It works by lightly applying braking pressure to the inside rear wheel when taking curves, which ultimately reduces body roll. Drivers can look forward to experiencing improved stability.

The MX-5 Miata Sport's sleek exterior design is guaranteed to turn heads. It offers 26 mpg in city driving and a whopping 34 mpg out on the freeway, all while running on premium gasoline for optimum performance. For added appeal, its black soft top pairs perfectly with 16" alloy wheels and an enhanced dual exhaust outlet. A selection of three dazzling colors - Soul Red Crystal Metallic, Platinum Quartz Metallic or Jet Black Mica - ensure that your ride will look unique anywhere you go!

Of the available MX-5 Miata trim levels, the Sport trim feels the least luxurious. It’s more focused on delivering a fun driving experience. Cloth-covered seats come standard. To make the MX-5 Miata Sport a more accommodating sports car, Mazda equips it with a tilt-telescoping steering wheel. Power windows and door locks are also found on the Sport trim.

Many drivers will appreciate the simplicity of the Sport trim’s climate control system. Physical knobs enable drivers to easily adjust the temperature settings. Meanwhile, the car’s traditional analog gauges are sporty and easy to see.

The standard Mazda Connect infotainment unit is a breeze to operate for most users. It features a 7.0-inch touchscreen, which sits atop the dash for easier viewing. Apple CarPlay/Android Auto smartphone integration and voice recognition are built into the interface. A 12-volt outlet enables drivers to power various items, such as tire inflators and laptops. Other conveniences include Bluetooth, keyless entry with push-button start, SMS text messaging, and dual USB ports.

The car’s standard stereo system features a total of six speakers. Driver's side headrest speakers help ensure a decent sound when riding with the top down. HD Radio is included as well.

Fortunately, the MX-5 Miata Sport is not devoid of today’s most popular safety features. Designed with low-speed automatic braking technology, Smart City Brake Support gives drivers greater confidence in urban areas. Meanwhile, blind-spot sensing helps drivers to remain aware of other vehicles on the road. Rear cross-traffic detection is integrated into the blind-spot sensing system. Lane departure warning further boosts driver confidence. Of course, a backup standard is also on the Sport trim’s list of standard equipment.

For those who want to take their road experience up a notch, Mazda's MX-5 Miata Club delivers the perfect solution. This trim packs precision handling thanks to its sport-tuned Bilstein suspension dampers and front shock tower brace for maximum stability on any terrain. And with its limited slip differential, you can rest assured that accelerating hard won't mean sacrificing traction!

When checking out the Club trim, car shoppers will notice a few exterior differences. Mazda strengthens the car’s stance by adding a larger set of 17-inch alloy wheels. A rear lip spoiler and a front air dam further enhance the MX-5 Miata Club’s aerodynamics. Stepping up to the Club trim also gives buyers more paint colors to choose from. This includes Polymetal Gray Metallic, Machine Gray Metallic, Snowflake White Pearl Mica, and Deep Crystal Blue Mica.

There are a few more niceties inside the Club trim. Music fans can enjoy the more inspiring Bose premium sound system. It features a total of nine speakers, including headrest speakers for both seats. A subwoofer enables listeners to experience stronger bass. Satellite radio is also included.

Unlike the entry-level Sport trim, the Club trim features heating functions for the front seats. When cruising around on a cool evening, passengers will appreciate the additional blanket of warmth. Mazda also upgrades the infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay.

Keep in mind that an RF version of the MX-5 Miata is offered. A power-retractable hardtop makes it a bit more practical. Aside from providing the car with an extra degree of protection against Mother Nature’s elements, the hardtop also helps better insulate the cabin during colder weather.

Some people may simply enjoy the convenience of the RF model. At the press of a button, its retractable roof neatly descends without requiring any extra effort. The RF model also looks a bit sleeker. However, buyers should expect the MX-5 Miata RF to have a steeper price tag.

On the Club trim’s list of options is a Brembo BBS Recaro package. It makes the MX-5 Miata an even more suitable car for competing on the track. While high-performance Brembo front brakes bolster the car’s stopping capabilities, lightweight BBS wheels further enhance driving dynamics. The package also equips the MX-5 Miata with heated Recaro seats. These race-inspired seats are engineered to help keep passengers planted when driving aggressively.

Compare the Club vs Grand Touring Trims. What is the difference?

For those looking to drive in style, the MX-5 Miata Grand Touring is a perfect choice. With luxurious black leather upholstery and dual-zone automatic climate control for maximum comfort, this trim level hints at sophistication and elegance behind the wheel. Need help getting around? A built-in navigational system ensures that drivers of all levels will be able to enjoy their travels without any complications or stress.

Some safety upgrades come equipped on the Grand Touring trim. When taking a curve or making a turn at night, adaptive front lights help drivers to scan the road for potential hazards. Traffic-sign recognition gives the MX-5 Miata a more secure feel. Meanwhile, rain-sensing wipers enable drivers to keep their hands on the wheel when encountering wet weather. Other driving aids include auto-dimming mirrors, high-beam assist, and LED daytime running lights.

A new option is now available for the Grand Touring trim. Terracotta Nappa leather seating surfaces give the can an especially upscale character.

For those seeking an automatic transmission, the MX-5 Miata Grand Touring is your answer. However, performance might take a slight hit with slower 0-60 mph times compared to its manual counterpart - though fueling up will still be economical at 26 mpg city/35 mpg highway.

Final Thoughts

Drivers who are not interested in any premium features should strongly consider the entry-level Sport trim. It performs well enough to keep most drivers entertained. Although the Sport trim no longer offers an automatic transmission, Mazda’s six-speed manual gearbox is a driving enthusiast's dream.

Quite a few nice conveniences come equipped on the new MX-5 Miata Sport. Mazda’s infotainment system provides a modern touchscreen with voice control software and smartphone integration. Safety tech, such as Smart City Brake Support and blind-spot sensing, also come standard.

When comparing the Sport trim to the other grades, drivers will not notice any big styling differences. Attractive alloy wheels and LED exterior lighting come standard. The biggest downside to the Sport trim is that it’s not offered with a power-retractable hardtop.

Drivers who desire a more serious sports car will want the Club trim. Its performance upgrades promote more aggressive handling. Buyers who plan to hit the track should consider checking off the optional Brembo BBS Recaro Package. Remember, stepping up to the Club trim also brings a few other amenities. The heated front seats and Bose premium audio system are especially appealing.

The MX-5 Miata Grand Touring comes fully appointed with luxurious leather seating, plus the convenience of an available automatic transmission. Special features such as adaptive front lighting and navigational assistance ensure you can find your way no matter where you go. But don’t forget about the RF version with its power retractable hardtop – ideal for those seeking a performance car that holds up in cold or wet weather conditions - though this option may cost extra compared to other trims.