2025 Mazda Miata Expert Review
Reviewed by Bob Hernandez
The Miata turns 35 this year, and to mark the occasion, Mazda has developed a special anniversary version of the fun-to-drive roadster. The current fourth-generation model was introduced for 2016 and has gained steady updates that make it a better driver’s car, including more power, a limited-slip differential, and handling-improving Kinematic Posture Control. Rear-wheel-drive coupe and convertible competitors include the Toyota GR86, Subaru BRZ, and Ford Mustang.
What’s New
- Deep Crystal Blue is now available for Grand Touring models
- Special 35th Anniversary edition model
What We Think
Updates over the last few years have made the Miata a better driver’s car. The roadster’s steering rack and limited-slip differential upgrades work together for a steering directness and drivability that was missing from previous models. Rear-end stability has improved, as well, and the chassis continues to be very communicative. As is typical for the MX-5, power output and acceleration are not especially strong, but the engine sounds great and the manual transmission feels solid.
Recent changes that introduced a bigger display and USB-C ports to the cabin are welcome, and if you get the retractable hard top model, the weight penalty is minimal. As much as the current version captures the spirit of the original, though, it’s also almost as cramped inside. While still very affordable, it is less of a bargain than it used to be. Approachable driving excitement remains the Miata’s main draw, but if you also need more space and capability, a rival like the Ford Mustang might be worth considering.
Performance and MPGs
The Miata’s 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine returns for 2025, developing 181 hp and 151 lb-ft of torque. A six-speed manual transmission is standard, and there’s also an available six-speed automatic with the Grand Touring model. The MotorTrend test team hustled a same-gen 2024 Club model to 60 mph in 5.6 seconds, making it not especially quick but not terribly slow, either. Last year’s roadster returns 26/34–35 mpg city/highway, and we’re expecting the same or similar ratings from the 2025 model.
Miata Handling: How It Sticks
Testing pulls back the curtain on the MX-5’s handling prowess, the little RWD getting nearly 1 g in our lateral acceleration assessment. Helping Club and Grand Touring models with the manual transmission achieve such heights in grip are factory enhancements such as Bilstein dampers, a front shock tower brace, and a conical clutch-type limited-slip differential. Electronics play a part, too, including the car’s DSC-Track mode, which manages stability control interventions, and Kinematic Posture Control, a feature that brakes the inside rear wheel to tighten the roadster’s turning radius and reduce body roll. Some mild aero is also available, and for the final sporting touch, a Brembo BBS Recaro package is available that adds Brembo front brakes, 17-inch BBS forged wheels, and heated Recaro seats.
Safety Features
Every 2025 Miata comes with blind-spot and rear cross-traffic monitors, Smart Brake Support, Lane Departure Warning, and Secondary Collision Reduction. Automatic high-beams, curve-adapting headlights, and traffic sign recognition are also available. The Grand Touring model receives adaptive cruise control with the available automatic transmission. Mazda also offers automatic headlights and rain-sensing wipers for the Miata.
Cargo Space and Interior Room
The Miata has always been a relatively small, light car. This is beneficial for driving dynamics, but it also means compromises in space and usefulness. Compared to the also-small Subaru BRZ, the Mazda is tiny, but at least legroom is competitive.
Legroom (front)
- 2025 Mazda Miata: 43.1 inches
- 2025 Subaru BRZ: 41.5 inches
Headroom (front)
- 2025 Mazda Miata: 36.8-37.4 inches
- 2025 Subaru BRZ: 37.0 inches
Cargo Space (trunk)
- 2025 Mazda Miata: 4.5-4.6 cubic feet
- 2025 Subaru BRZ: 6.3 cubic feet
Technology
Standard tech in every 2025 Miata includes an 8.8-inch central display that turns into a touchscreen when you use Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. LED headlights, LED taillights, LED daytime running lights, six speakers, and a couple of USB-C ports are also standard. Upgrades consist of heated seats, wireless phone mirroring, and Bose nine-speaker premium audio with headrest speakers.
What Comes With the Miata 35th Anniversary Edition?
As with some previous anniversary models, this treatment is purely cosmetic. Outside, the car is sprayed in a rich Artisan Red Metallic finish that comes from Mazda’s CX-90 three-row SUV. The special roadster’s included rear spoiler is color matched, and additional exterior touches include model-specific 17-inch wheels and 35th Anniversary badging displaying the roadster’s production number. Contrasting against the dark red is a tan manual soft top that recalls an option that’s been offered on and off since the first-gen NA Miata. The tan extends to the cabin’s Nappa leather seating embossed with 35th Anniversary logos and wrapped key fob.
Which 2025 Miata Trim Level Is Best?
The 2025 Mazda Miata is available in four trims this year: Sport, Club, Grand Touring, and a 35th Anniversary model. We think the Club trim is the best, as it integrates the handling mods we really want, specifically the limited-slip differential, upgraded dampers, and DSC-Track mode. The base Miata starts just north of $30,500 this year, while the Club model starts at approximately $34,000. The top model is the RF Grand Touring, which starts just above $38,500.
