Review: 2016 Mazda MX-5 Miata Club

Words by Andy Lilienthal, photos by Mercedes Lilienthal

Growing up, my dad would take me to the Raceway to Fun go-kart track in Newport, Minnesota. I always looked forward to it, no matter how many times we went. There was something about getting behind the wheel of that little kart, despite the fact it wasn’t really very fast, that was so much fun. It handled well, you could push it without fear, and it presented the illusion of speed, even if it wasn’t all that fast. Each time I got into the all-new 2016 MX-5 Miata, it was like going to the go-kart track as a kid. I couldn’t wait to get in, I could drive it hard, and I wasn’t in any inherent risk of danger, so long as I didn’t drive it like an idiot. This car was the closest thing I can relate to that feeling as a kid. And I would drive it at every opportunity during my week with it. Go to work on Monday? Let’s go! Need to pick up something at the grocery store? Count me in! Going to lunch? I’ll drive!

The 2016 Miata Is Darned Near Perfect

By Andy Lilienthal

We're facing automotive bloat these days. Many cars just keep getting bigger and heavier—you can almost count on it. However, this is not the case with the upcoming 2016 Mazda MX-5 Miata. Compared to the outgoing '15 Miata, the '16 will actually have a slightly shorter wheelbase (90.9" vs. 91.7"), it will weigh less (2,332 lbs vs. 2,480), and get 25% better fuel economy (27 city, 36 highway, 30 combined vs. 21 city, 28 highway, 24 combined). Now granted, it's new 2.0-liter engine makes less horsepower (155 vs 167), but it makes more torque (148 ft/lbs vs. 140 ft/lbs) using the new SKYACTIV-MT engine. With the weight reduction, the power-to-weight ratio is nearly unchanged—but the car will be more efficient. To me, this all sounds perfect. Smaller, lighter, and more fuel efficient: The Miata just might be the perfect car—assuming you don't need four seats and a big-ass trunk.

The Last Year Of The NC Mazda Miata Is Still Fantastic, Even In The Cold

It’s November, 2014 and we’re receiving record cold in Oregon. Temperatures are in the 20s for highs with ice and frost. This is not the best time to have a Miata for review. However, it is the Miata with the power retracting hard top (PRHT), but it’s still a rear-drive sports car on summer tires. Frankly, it was the first time I’d worn a down jacket, knit cap, and gloves in a Miata. But you know what? That’s OK.

Official 2016 Mazda MX-5 Miata Pictures

The 2016 Mazda MX-5 Miata is one of the most highly anticipated releases among sports car fans in a while. Well, here it is. And frankly, I think I love it.

This Miata is more svelte looking, more sleek, and more racy than ever before. No word on the official powerplant, but we do know it'll feature the SKYACTIV technology, that will eventually find its way into all Mazda products.

It has more of an edge than any MX-5 before it. I can't wait to learn more about it. The official press release and more images can be found after the break.

Big Dog + Small Car

Just because you have a dog, even a big dog, doesn't necessarily mean you need to get a bigger car. Case in point, I stopped by the grocery store today, and when I walked out I spotted this. Yes, that's a huge German Shepard in ... er ... on a Miata. And no, I wasn't about to get any closer than this as the dog was eyeing me up as I walked past. Hey—that's a hell of a theft deterrent.

Anyone else have a big dog and a small car?

Top Five Summer Subcompacts

Summer is here, and it’s a great time for drop-top motoring. So what are our top subcompacts for summer? We thought you’d never ask.

Mazda MX-5 Miata
Whether you opt for a new Miata or and early version, these are the quintessential small modern convertibles. With peppy drivetrains, classic good looks, and superb driving dynamics, these drop-tops are sure to please anyone who enjoys driving. Those opting for newer versions can buy the power retractable hardtop, too. We loved the ones we’ve reviewed. Here’s a video of the top operation.

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MINI Cooper Convertible/Roadster 
The MINI Convertible has been out for years, and recently MINI added the Roadster model above. The Convertible can seat four; the Roadster, two. Both are cool looking subcompacts that drive as nicely as they look. Available with our without forced induction, the Cooper S and John Cooper Works models are downright quick.

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Fiat 500c
Fiat’s subcompact 500c takes everything you like about the 500 hardtop and allows users to open up the center section. Like the MINI, they’re available normally aspirated or with a turbocharger in the 500c Abarth. The Abarth not only looks sportier it certainly sounds sportier. Either one will have the super-trick sliding ragtop shown in the video we shot below.

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Geo/Chevrolet Tracker and Suzuki Sidekick

First offered in 1989, these two-door convertibles were available with a very capable 4WD driveline with a two-speed transfer case. These weren’t just “cute utes,” they had trail trail cred. Initially powered by an 80 hp 1.6-liter eight-valve engine, later convertible models came with a 2.0-liter making 127 hp. These are still inexpensive, capable vehicles that can be had for not much money. Plus there's a good-sized aftermarket.

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Volkswagen Rabbit Convertible/Cabriolet 
The Rabbit Convertible was introduced in the early 1980s and ran all the way through 1994 with essentially the same classic body style. Powered by a 1.8-liter mill, this was the 1980s compact convertible. Nimble and choked full of Euro character, there are a megaton of hop-up parts for these, and no that’s not a Rabbit joke.

Review: 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata Special Edition: Adding some rarity to the quintessential convertible

Ah, the Mazda Miata. A sportscar that has been around for more than 20 years has garnered its fair share of opinions. Best convertible on earth and small for size and big on handling; to a girly mobile that a man would never drive. I had a chance to drive one for a week, and to any of you that say it is solely for the female gender, you are missing out. Yes, I am a said female, but this compact courier has a lot of amenities and drive qualifications to make most cars in its class blush.

In the driveway: 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata Special Edition

In the driveway this week is the 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata Special Edition. This model comes in white with black wheels, a black top, and xenon headlamps. We think it's a pretty hot little number.

We've reviewed the Miata with the PRHT (power retracting hard top) in the past and essentially fell in love with it. It's likely we've already developed a crush on this white Special Edition model, too. Rather than have me reiterate my thoughts on the vehicle, Mercedes will be the one giving her opinion on this ride. Hopefully I'll be able to wrestle the keys out of her hands long enough to drive it to work. Oh man, is this thing fun. Stay tuned.

SEMA: More Mazda 2 (and a Miata)

Here are a few of the Mazda 2s from the SEMA Show. I really dig these vehicles. I'd actually consider buying one some day. (Speaking of which, stay tuned for a review on the 2011 2 shortly). And I couldn't ignore this Miata in the Mazda booth. Sick.

Review: 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata Grand Touring PRHT—Top up or down, possibly one of the best sports cars available

What do you think of when you hear "Miata"? Some think legendary sports car with great driving dynamics, a true driver's car, top-down fun, and razor-sharp handling. Then there are those that think "chick car." Those that think the Miata is a car meant solely for use by the fairer sex, you're sorely mistaken. This is a bona-fide sports car through and through, and if you don't think so, you likely haven't driven one.

THE SHORT STORY

Pros: Amazing handling; easy-to-use power hardtop; classic good looks; grin-inducing driving experience with the top up or down.

Cons: Interior can be a bit small; having to stop driving at some point.

Overall: The legend continues. And with the hardtop, year-round enjoyment is even easier.

The venerable Mazda MX-5 Miata has been in production for more than 20 years and has sold more than 850,000 units. It is essentially the quintessential modern sports car. Think "British sports car" but without the terrible Lucas electrics and more safety features. The car is one of the most fun-to-drive vehicles out there, regardless of price, even though the MX-5 isn’t nearly as fast as some other sports cars. With the availability of a power retracting hard top (PRHT) convertible, the Miata could be the ultimate affordable all-weather convertible, and is definitely a modern day sports car icon.

EXTERIOR STYLING: Classic sports car looks, top up or top down

The MX-5 Miata isn't groundbreaking stylistically, rather it's a classic looking convertible. I happen to think the latest generation Miata looks great with both top up and down. Speaking of, the PRHT looks outstanding up and fools many people into thinking it’s actually a fixed-roof coupe. However, at the push of a button, it turns into an open-air vehicle.

INTERIOR: Well appointed, sporting, and a bit cramped

It’s no secret the MX-5 Miata is small, and that translates into the interior, too. On long trips, the MX-5 can become cramped, especially for passengers (or so they told me). I’m a whopping 5’7” tall and I have enough legroom, but my knees do tend to bump up against the center console. Overall, the Grand Touring’s two-tone, leather-clad interior is very nice. And I loved the large easy-to-read gauges with full instrumentation.

A couple of things to note: The power window controls are in the center—something that takes some getting used to. Also, the seats just hit me in the wrong spot lumbar wise, and there isn’t an adjustment. Hey, you can’t make a seat to fit everyone, right? By the way, the Miata's trunk is usable, certainly enough to stow a couple of bags. My wife and I went on a two-day trip to the Oregon coast with two laptop bags, two duffel bags, a backpack, and managed to fit in a couple of purchases along the way.

But lets’ face it: The showpiece here is the hardtop, and it’s super easy to use. Undo one latch and hold down the “top down” button until it beeps. Done. It takes 12 seconds to open or close the top. It’s very cool.

With the top up, there is noticeable wind noise but you can be sure it isn’t going to leak when it’s raining. With the top down, the interior is remarkably quiet, and even more so with the windows up

TECHNOLOGY: Not too much, not too little

The MX-5 has a fair amount of tech goodness including a Bose stereo, an easy-to-use Bluetooth system, steering wheel controls, HIDs, all the safety equipment you’ll want, and of course, that super-cool power hardtop. Navigation is not available. Frankly, I’m glad the MX-5 isn’t laden with over-the-top tech features; I think it’d ruin the car’s classic persona.

ENGINE/DRIVETRAIN: Free revving engine mated to a great transmission

Fun, fun fun. The high-revving 2.0-liter engine will cook past 7,000 RPM—it’s a screamer, even if it’s not a rocketship, which makes it feel faster than it is. Regardless, the MX-5 does fine with its 167 hp output. Mated to a close-ratio six-speed manual that begs to be run through the gears, the MX-5 Miata is about as much fun as you can have in a car. It’s proof positive it’s fun to drive a slow car fast (although it’s not exactly slow). It’s a great combination of engine and transmission. Plus, it has a limited-slip differential for those oh so twisty moments. Lots-o-fun!

DRIVING: An incredibly rewarding experience

The Miata never feels underpowered. The combination of a usable powerband and well thought out gear ratios allows for a great amount of flexibility, whether driving in the city or on the highway. Plus, this high-revving engine sounds good, too—especially with the top down. The MX-5 is a sprinter. It loves to get up and go and be tossed around the twisties, and handling is second to none. Basically, think of what you believe a sports car should be, and that’s the Miata. Could it use 30 more horsepower? Sure; what couldn't? However, with that extra power would come extra fuel consumption. I got 28 MPG with mostly highway driving. Pretty good.

For a sports car, the MX-5 rides quite well, too. Whether running up and down city streets or cruising the wide-open Interstate, the MX-5 never feels uncomfortable from a ride perspective. It’s quite remarkable, actually, especially for its short wheelbase.

OVERALL: One of the most fun-to-drive vehicles available

Base model Miatas can be had for just under $23,000 MSRP. However, the MX-5 Grand Touring with the PRHT isn’t cheap: My test model came in at $31,300. That’s quite a bit of dough. Then again, for a true rear-drive sports car, it isn’t that bad. Since the car is so much fun and resale is good, I’d say it’s still well within acceptable territory. You can save some cash by going with the traditional soft top, but the PRHT is just so cool!

The MX-5 is nimble, efficient, simple, and lots of fun. With the top down, it’s nearly impossible not to enjoy yourself unless 1) It’s raining or 2) You’re simply too big for the car. For me, the MX-5 is a grin-inducing form of transportation that I could easily see in my driveway full time. Anyone looking for a fun, simple, and fairly affordable convertible should place this Mazda at the top of their shopping list. And for those that associate the Miata with a “chick car,” I suggest driving one. If this is a chick car, it’s a chick car that’ll hand other cars their respective asses in the corners.

Operating the power retractable hardtop on the 2010 Mazda MX-5

Let's face it: The power retractable hardtop on the Mazda MX-5 is pretty darn sweet and super simple to use. Just get in, undo the single latch, put the car in neutral, and hold the corresponding button until it's opened or closed. That's it. How fast is it? See above.

In the driveway: 2010 Mazda MX-5 Grand Touring PRHT

Yes, this is an "In the driveway" post, but I didn't have a chance to take a photo of it in my driveway before hitting the road. Let's face it: The Mazda MX-5 Miata is probably one of the most fun vehicles you can drive. If you've never driven one, you should. This model features the power retracting hardtop (PRHT) option, too. It only adds 85 lbs. to the car, and not only is functional, but it's pretty darn cool to operate, too.

First impressions: This is one of the most fun cars you can legally drive on the road. Legendary driving dynamics, great looks, and general open-air fun. I've had this car just over 24 hours and I already don't want to give it back—this is my kind of car. Oh man ... I think I've been bitten by the Miata bug.

More later!

Tiny and topless: Some subcompact convertibles

Who doesn't love a convertible? There's nothing like that top-down, wind-in-the-hair feeling. I recently saw a Geo Metro Convertible, and got to thinking about some of the other tiny topless vehicles out there. Here are some notables from the last couple of decades.

The Fiat 500C is one of the newest subcompacts on the market. Already sold in Europe, it'll likely show up in the U.S. in 2011 or 2012. Currently, it's available with a 99 hp 1.4-liter four cylinder engine. Note the unique folding top, too.

The Suzuki-built Geo Metro convertible was sold in the U.S. from 1990–1993. Fast? Nope. The 1.0-liter three banger made 55 hp, but only had to move 1,753 lbs. It did, however, have an EPA rating of 41 highway MPG.

MINI has sold its topless Cooper since 2005 here in the States. Offered with or without the aid of a blower (a turbo replaced the S-model's supercharger in 2007), all MINI Convertibles have great handling and outstanding driving dynamics.

The smallest convertible currently sold in the U.S. is the venerable Smart ForTwo Cabriolet. It also has the highest EPA gas mileage of any convertible in the U.S.: 33 city, 41 highway.

Toyota's two-door Paseo was sold as a convertible for just one year: 1997. Its 1.5-liter engine made 93 hp and 100 ft./lbs. of torque. Since this tiny topless Toyota was only made for one year, it's a pretty rare find.

Unfortunately never sold in the U.S. (although available in the UK and Japan), the Kei-sized '91–'97 Cappuccino was powered by a turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 657cc three cylinder making 63 hp. So cool, so unobtainable—at least in the U.S.

It would be a disservice to not mention Mazda's ubiquitous Miata here. On sale since 1990, the Miata has been the staple small convertible across the globe, and continues to be a favorite among drivers, with good reason.

Remember this one? The front-wheel drive '91–'94 Mercury Capri was built in Australia and available in normally aspirated (100 hp) and turbocharged XR2 (136 hp) models, both 1.6-liter mills. FYI, the turbo motor is a hot swap in the Ford Festiva community.

Fond memories of other small convertibles? Talk about it in the comments section!

SEMA: More miscellaneous goodness from day two

Day two proved to be quite busy. There appeared to be a lot of people in attendance, and many people I spoke with said it was highly trafficked.

Here are a few more cars from the show:

Mazda planning sub-MX-5 roadster?

Over at LeftLaneNews.com, they're reporting that Mazda may be working on a convertible smaller than the MX-5 Miata. Click below to read the full story.

LINK
Mazda planning sub-MX-5 roadster?