For those who want a sports car that is stylish and sure to turn heads, the 2018 Mazda MX-5 Miata can fit the bill. While the price can quickly rise depending on the options you choose, the MX-5 has enough power. It also can be very reasonably priced depending on how you choose to configure it. Those after a traditional sports car feel instead of the modern adjustments to the segment found in other lineups will definitely appreciate all that this Mazda has to offer.
Making an Impression
When you look at the 2018 MX-5 Miata, you will see a vehicle that is clearly a sports car. It has a short trunk, long hood, and minimal amounts of extra sheet metal. The interior is relatively simple without seeming overwhelmingly boring, but you can upgrade it if you choose. This Mazda always has as the sleek and chiseled experience you want from a sports car, and it is particularly attractive in Soul Red. Those who really want to turn heads will love the Miata RF, which features a classic coupe shape along with a retractable hardtop roof that can deploy in 13 seconds.
Performance
If you just look at the numbers, the 2018 Mazda MX-5 Miata may seem underwhelming, but it is a different story behind the wheel, at least to some extent. The Miata uses a 2-liter 4-cylinder engine that generates just 155 horsepower, a figure that is far from what you expect from a sports car. To make up for the low power, however, the Miata only weighs 2,331 pounds, allowing for nimble handling.
The 6-speed manual transmission has slick shifts, and overall, the Miata feels light on its feet and has a great steering feel. This 6-speed manual tends to get rave reviews for its smooth shifting and progressive clutch pedal. Those who prefer automatics can go with a 6-speed option, which includes a Sports mode.
There are some minor variations in performance based on trim level for the MX-5 Miata. The RF, for example, is a bit stiffer and a little quieter. The Club trim has a stiffer suspension from Bilstein, along with a limited-slip differential in the back and a strut brace in the front. This trim is sharper with a bit less lean on corners, something that does reduce the ride comfort somewhat.
Comfortable for Two
There is no way that anyone will consider the 2018 Mazda MX-5 Miata to be a family car since it only seats two passengers in comfort and has limited cargo space. In fact, there is just 4.6 cubic feet of cargo plus a small compartment between the front seats that will fit a few smartphones or other small items. While the Miata is not ideal for those in search of an auto with utility, it makes up for it with comfort. The ergonomics are truly driver-centric, with everything placed perfectly. The base unit has suspended fabric on the seats instead of foam and springs, giving excellent bolstering. If you want even more comfort, you can opt for Recaro seats by getting the Club trim.
