2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata
- 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata
Based on analysis of 61 MX-5 Miata reviews and test drives.
Mazda MX-5 Miata - What the Auto Press Says
The 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata ranks 1 out of 5 Affordable Sports Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 61 published reviews and test drives of the Mazda MX-5 Miata, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The Mazda MX-5 Miata is a reviewer favorite for its combination of thrilling handling, impressive build quality and long-term value.
The 2010 Miata is a dream, especially for sports car enthusiasts on a budget. It's quick, agile, great on gas and reliable too. In fact, Edmunds describes it as "a lightweight, balanced and responsive roadster that delivers the very best in wind-in-the-hair driving at an affordable price."
Still, critics report that competitors like the Honda S2000 and Nissan 370Z offer stronger engines and faster off-the-line performance. In fact, shoppers looking for a stronger on-track performer may very well be better off with the S2000's Club Racer Trim -- which not only provides 70 more horsepower, but is specially tuned for the racing circuit. The 370Z, on the other hand, out powers the Miata by a whopping 165 ponies and is, arguably, more comfortable to ride in. Neither, however, trumps the Miata in terms of handling. In that regard, few vehicles at this price point can compete with the Miata.
Refreshed in 2009, the Miata carries into the 2010 model year largely the same. The soft top Miata is available in three trims: Sport, Touring and Grand Touring. The power retractable hardtop is available in two: Touring and Grand Touring.
- "The new MX-5 is just like that bubbly, blonde cheerleader you knew in high school 15 years ago. Only now she's grown up and has a college degree. She's also put on a few more pounds. But she still knows all the moves." -- Motor Trend
- "For what the car is, and what it has always been, the MX-5 Miata is essentially without peer. And whether you like the retractable hardtop or not -- and I do -- the soft top is still available for purists, and the hardtop just adds one more feature that makes the car a little more practical as a daily driver." -- Orlando Sentinel
- "The latest generation is spectacularly good, both sweetly rewarding to drive and an excellent value." -- New Car Test Drive
- "This Best Buy delivers as much driving enjoyment--if not outright power--as two-seat sports cars costing thousands more." -- Consumer Guide
- "Another plus for Miatas is that they have held their value over the years." -- Forbes
MX-5 Miata Performance - 8.8 (Very Good)
Test drivers report that the Miata is fun to drive. "Although tuned for a smoother ride than before, the Miata still changes direction with the immediacy of a roller skate and speaks to you clearly through the steering wheel and driver seat," writes Edmunds. With such thrilling sport capabilities, it's no wonder that critics are left impressed by the MX-5. Read More
MX-5 Miata Exterior - 8.0 (Very Good)
Reviewers like the Miata's recently refreshed exterior design -- especially its automatic retractable hardtop. The Miata's drop-top is also available in vinyl or cloth. Read More
MX-5 Miata Interior - 6.3 (Mediocre)
Reviewers are pleased with the Miata's interior fit and finish, but find its cabin cramped for large passengers. "Those over 6-ft tall may want more legroom and top-up head clearance," explains Consumer Guide. "Those under 5-ft-6 may have trouble seeing over the high dashboard." Read More
MX-5 Miata Safety - NA
The Miata hasn't been crash tested, but features a host of standard active and passive safety equipment -- including front and side airbags. Critics, however, warn that the MX-5 might not be safe for children. Read More
MX-5 Miata Reliability - NA
Auto writers are pleased with the MX-5 Miata's solid reliability history. Mazda protects the ‘10 Miata with a three-year/36,000-mile limited warranty, as well as a five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. Read More
