2022 Mazda MX-5 Miata Pros Vs Cons

The new 2022 Mazda MX-5 Miata remains one of America’s lowest-priced convertible sports cars. Because this roadster handles do well, it’s also become a favorite among amateur racers. However, strong fuel economy and supportive seats make the MX-5 Miata a fun ride you can drive daily. Featuring a power-retractable hardtop, the RF model is perfect for folks who regularly travel in cold or rainy weather.

What’s New for 2022?

This year, the MX-5 Miata’s Club and Sport trims are only offered with a manual transmission. To help make the car perform even better in the handling department, Mazda has updated it with a new Kinematic Posture Control system. Furthermore, reddish-brown leather upholstery is now offered on the range-topping Grand Touring trim.

Ten Reasons You May Like the 2022 Mazda MX-5 Miata – The Pros

1. Strong Yet Economical SkyActiv-G Four-Cylinder Engine

Every new Miata is powered by the same SkyActiv-G four-cylinder engine. It’s tuned to generate 181 horsepower, which proves to be enough muscle for this lightweight sports car. When launched from a dead to stop, the MX-5 Miata is capable of racing to 60 mph in a brisk 5.7 seconds. Direct-injection technology also helps the engine to conserve more fuel. While automatic-equipped trims have a fuel economy rating of 26 mpg town/35 mpg freeway, trims mated to a manual gearbox have a rating of 26 mpg town/34 mpg freeway.

2. Engaging Manual Transmission

The 2022 Mazda MX-5 Miata blends convenience and performance, offering both an automatic transmission perfect for everyday use as well as a six speed manual gearbox that will delight the driving enthusiast. The shift action of its manual clutch is incredibly satisfying – smooth shifts create effortless transitions between gears even when navigating through stop-and-go traffic. A standout in any price class, this car's exceptional design makes it a great choice for those looking to combine fun with function on their daily commute!

3. New Kinematic Posture Control System Aids Handling

The MX-5 Miata was already known around the globe for its athletic driving dynamics. It handles just as well as some of today’s more expensive sports cars. However, Mazda has further enhanced the car’s agility by added a new Kinematic Posture Control system. When diving into a curve, the system subtly applies light braking pressure to the inner rear wheel. This ultimately translates to less body roll, thus giving drivers an extra degree of confidence.

4. Budget-Friendly Sports Car

For drivers seeking an affordable alternative to a Porsche 911, the Miata MX-5 provides incredible value at less than $28,000. Owners don't need to sacrifice on features either -- keyless entry and touchscreen infotainment come standard with this model! Practicality is prioritized too - lower maintenance costs ensure that owners can keep more money in their wallets.

5. RF Model’s Retractable Hardtop

The 2022 Mazda MX-5 Miata comes standard with a soft-top convertible roof. While the soft top is great for summer cruising, it’s not as durable. A power-tractable hardtop comes equipped on the MX-5 Miata RF, which can better withstand the elements of Mother Nature. When the weather becomes colder, the hardtop also helps insulate the cabin. Some drivers may simply prefer the quietness of the RF model. Aside from not allowing as much wind noise to come inside, its retractable hardtop also keeps vibrations to a minimum.

6. Distinctive Exterior Styling

With its classic sports car styling, the MX-5 Miata stands out with an extended hood and stubby trunk. The RF model's sleek hardtop further enhances this iconic look - especially when paired with one of several attractive paint options, such as all-new Platinum Quartz Metallic. Standard LED lights & a twin tip exhaust nicely complement BBS wheels that not only give an eye catching appearance but also reduce weight for superior performance!

7. Simple & Sporty Interior Design

Driving enthusiasts will find much to love with the MX-5 Miata's uncluttered cabin. No superfluous distraction allows drivers to stay focused on what truly matters - enjoying a weekend jaunt or competing in the race track. Intuitive three-dial climate control, easy-to understand gauges, and push button start technology make this car a driving dream come true!

8. Bose Audio System

For drivers who desire enhanced sound quality when streaming music, Mazda offers a Bose premium audio system. This nine-speaker unit produces an especially rich sound. When riding with the top down, UltraNearfield headrest speakers help passengers to better hear the music. AudioPilot Noise compensation technology also helps cancel out wind noise.

9. Mazda’s i-Activsense Safety Features Come Standard

With the introduction of i-Activsense safety technologies, driving in busy city traffic has never been safer for those behind the wheel of a MX-5 Miata. Low speed automatic emergency braking helps drivers avoid rear ending other motorists and blind spot sensing allows them to monitor nearby vehicles with added assurance. Other standard features include lane departure warning making it easier than ever to cruise safely through congested streets and highways alike.

10. Especially Sporty Club Trim

Drivers who plan to participate in racing events or simply desire the sportiest handling should consider getting the Club trim. Bilstein shock absorbers sharpen the MX-5 Miata Club’s driving dynamics. A limited-slip differential and a front strut tower brace help further improve the car’s stability.

Reasons You May Not Like the 2022 Mazda MX-5 Miata – The Cons

1. Simply Too Small for Some Drivers

While the 2022 Mazda MX-5 Miata is a surprisingly accommodating sports car, it’s still entirely too small for some people. There’s only a limited amount of knee room underneath the steering wheel, which could be an issue for taller drivers. A transmission tunnel also restricts the amount of space in the passenger’s footwell. Because of this roadster’s two-seat design, parents won’t be able to cater to their young children.

2. Small Trunk

Despite its sleek design, the MX-5 Miata has limited storage capacity. With a trunk only capable of holding 5 cubic feet or less, drivers can't bring much extra baggage besides perhaps one golf bag when setting out on an adventure away from home.

3. Infotainment System Has Some Potential Flaws

Mazda’s infotainment system provides a straightforward experience - however, its readability is highly impacted by the presence of sunlight. When behind the wheel during sunny days, taking Mazda's top down may cancel out any chance to see what you need on screen! Drivers must also keep in mind that they can only interact with this interface while stopped; when driving, only their controller knob will do.

4. Not the Best Car for Snowy Climates

While owners can equip the MX-5 Miata with winter tires, this still isn’t the best car for commuting in the snow. This rear-wheel-drive roadster may have trouble maintaining good traction.

5. Certain Luxury Features Are Not Offered

Certain luxury features are not available on the 2022 Mazda MX-5 Miata. While heated seats can be added, Mazda does not offer ventilation functions for the seats. Buyers will also not have access to a heated steering wheel.

How It Stacks Up to the Competition:

2022 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs 2022 Subaru BRZ

The 2022 Subaru BRZ is a thrilling ride, with improved acceleration that makes it stand apart. This model also boasts an unexpected amenity - the small backseat provides parents extra practical flexibility while its manual transmission still has plenty of power under the hood. Commuters will appreciate Mazda’s MX-5 Miata for its higher fuel economy rating and added bonus: convertibility! Automatic emergency braking rounds off this package as both models offer enjoyable driving experiences catered to different lifestyles.

Conclusion

The 2022 Mazda MX-5 Miata offers a winning combination - an affordable price, outstanding performance and fuel economy. It's the perfect car for drivers who want to navigate winding backroads or take on contenders at the track with its remarkable handling capabilities. The interior of this sports convertible is modern yet simple, making it ready to satisfy even discerning drivers' needs.

Although the new MX-5 Miata is a highly recommended model, it’s not for everyone. This roadster’s small size will turn away some people. Limited trunk space also hurts the MX-5 Miata’s practicality.