2019 Mazda MX-5 Miata Pros vs Cons. Should You Buy?

An affordable price tag and impressive track capabilities have helped the MX-5 Miata to become one of the most popular sports cars in history. While the MX-5 Miata is a favorite among amatuer racers, it's also a fun daily-driver that anyone can enjoy. Despite this roadster's compact interior, there's actually enough room for most drivers to fit comfortably. Although the 2019 Mazda MX-5 Miata is a great performance bargain, it may not be a good choice for some folks. Let's see if the new model lives up to the hype.

What's New for 2019?

This year, Mazda has equipped the MX-5 Miata with a updated engine. You can also take advantage of its new interior features. The standard tilt and telescoping steering wheel will intrigue a lot of buyers.

 

Top 10 Reasons to Buy a 2019 Mazda MX-5 Miata – The Pros

1. New Engine with More Power Arrives

Some Miata fans have been hoping for just a bit more power under the hood. For 2019, Mazda has stepped up to the plate. The new Skyactiv-G four-cylinder engine develops 181 horsepower and 151 pound-feet of torque. A higher redline makes the new MX-5 Miata even more exciting. When you take the 2019 Mazda MX-5 Miata out for a spin, expect to experience noticeably stronger acceleration. Some testers have clocked a 0-60 time of 5.7 seconds.

2. Still Fun to Toss Around

In terms of driving fun, the 2019 Mazda MX-5 Miata ranks very high. Even when compared to high-powered sports cars such as the Chevrolet Corvette and the Porsche 911, this little two-seater can still hold its own. It definitely stands out in the handling department. A curb weight of less than 2,400 pounds enables the MX-5 Miata float around curves. Bilstein shock absorbers and a limited-slip differential come equipped on the performance-focused Club trim.

3. Can Ride with the Top Down

Unlike entry-level sports cars like the Subaru BRZ, the 2019 Mazda MX-5 Miata allows you to ride with the top down. Very few cars offer more fun in the summertime. You'll love the simplicity of its manual convertible top. If you plan to drive your MX-5 Miata on a year-round basis, consider getting the RF model. It's designed with a retractable hard top, which is perfect for driving in the rain.

4. Low Cost of Ownership

Drivers love the Miata MX-5's low cost of ownership. Most of the car's required maintenance can easily be performed by a backyard mechanic. Insurance is also very affordable. You'll certainly benefit from the MX-5 Miata's SkyActiv engineering, which focuses on delivering the optimum efficiency. Anticipate getting around 26 mpg in urban areas and up to 35 mpg on the interstate. Drivers can even fill the tank with regular unleaded.

5. Surprisingly Comfortable Roadster

Many people tend to be misled by the MX-5 Miata's miniature size. While it is indeed a smaller than average car, you may be surprised by its everyday comfort. Mazda tuned the standard suspension just right for daily commuting. Drivers also give the 2019 Mazda MX-5 Miata top marks for its supportive seats. A now standard tilt and telescoping steering column helps you to obtain a better driving position. You are more than encouraged to take this roadster on a fun road trip.

6. Classic Miata Styling

While the MX-5 Miata's appearance has gradually changed over the years, you'll immediately notice its classic styling cues. A lot of people are familiar with the Miata's long hood and short rear end. Because of the MX-5 Miata's elegant curves, its exterior styling will remain relevant for years to come. LED headlights and an attractive set of 16-inch alloy wheels come standard. An aero body kit is available as an option.

7. A Superior Bargain for a Sports Car

If you find a Porsche 911 or a Jaguar F-Type to be beyond your means, take a good look at 2019 Mazda MX-5 Miata. You'll find it to be nearly just as rewarding to drive. Prices start at less than $26,000. Although the MX-5 Miata has always been billed as a simple sports car, a lot of modern features are found inside the new model. Some of the highlights include a 7.0-inch infotainment screen, text messaging support, and HD radio.

8. Mazda Connect Infotainment System Work Well

Drivers will like the Mazda Connect infotainment system. Its display sits above the center stack, which means you don't have to look down while driving. A simple menu screen makes this interface especially enjoyable. Although Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are not included with Mazda Connect, you'll have no problem streaming media from your smartphone. The voice commands also work very well.

9. Useful Driving Aids

In the past, MX-5 Miata drivers were forced to forgo modern safety technologies. Fortunately, that's no longer the case. While blind-spot monitoring gives you the okay to change lanes, rear cross-traffic alert gives you more awareness in parking areas. Meanwhile, adaptive headlights make driving on dark roads more secure. Lane departure warning and low-speed automatic braking (Smart City Brake Support) are also offered.

10. Bose Sound System

Music can make driving a sports car more entertaining. If you are not inspired by the standard six-speaker stereo system, opt for the nine-speaker Bose premium audio system. While breezing down the highway, you'll be able to really jam to your favorite songs.

 

Reasons Not to Buy a 2019 Mazda MX-5 Miata – The Cons

1. May Be Too Small

The 2019 Mazda MX-5 Miata is larger than the previous-generation Miata. However, some folks may still find it to be entirely too small. This is especially true for the drivers who are taller than six feet. Furthermore, the lack of a backseat means parents are forced to leave their kids behind. A tiny trunk also limits the MX- Miata's cargo capacity. If space is a concern, take the 2019 Ford Mustang EcoBoost for a test drive.

2. Not A Good Winter Car

If you live in an area that has hard winters, the 2019 Mazda MX-5 Miata is certainly not your best option. Rear-wheel-drive cars tend to not perform as well in the snow. Aside from not offering all-wheel-drive, this sports car also has a low ground clearance. When driving around on a wintry day, there's a good chance you may find yourself stuck in the snow. Furthermore, soft-top models are not made to withstand icy conditions

3. The MX-5 Miata RF Costs More

Some people consider the MX-5 Miata RF to be a poor man's Porsche 911. A retractable hardtop helps gives it an especially sleek look. Unfortunately, choosing the RF model will cause you to spend more money. Prices for the MX-5 Miata RF start at more than $32,000.

4. No Apple CarPlay and Android Auto

If you really like the 2019 Mazda MX-5 Miata's other qualities, it's lack of Android Auto and Apple CarPlay is unlikely to be a deal breaker. On the other hand, some drivers will desire these mobile technologies. The similarly priced 2019 Subaru BRZ offers Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

How It Stacks Up Against the Competition

When looking for a new convertible sports car, you may also be considering the 2019 Ford Mustang. Although the new Miata is quicker than before, it's still not as fast as the Mustang. You'll also have more space to stretch out in the Mustang. However, some drivers will appreciate the MX-5 Miata's extra fuel savings.

Designed on the same platform as the MX-5 Miata, the 2019 Fiat 124 Spider deserves a thought. Some drivers consider the Fiat 124 Spider to have a smoother ride. However, choose the MX-5 Miata if you desire the best possible handling.

Don't forget to check out the 2019 Subaru BRZ. With the arrival of a stronger engine, the 2019 Mazda MX-5 Miata is now a bit quicker than the Subaru BRZ. It's a close match in terms of handling. However, only the BRZ provides a backseat.

Conclusion

There are only a few sports cars for less than $30,000 than rival the MX-5 Miata's fun factor. Improved performance will likely make the 2019 Mazda MX-5 Miata even more appealing to driving enthusiasts. There's a huge aftermarket for the MX-5 Miata. While the Miata is often viewed as a summer car, the RF model's retractable hardtop is perfect for the winter. Before you head out to buy a new MX-5 Miata, be mindful of its two-seat design.