2015 Mazda MX-5 Miata Review

The 2015 MX-5 can be summed up by saying it’s simple, agile and enjoyable to drive.

Non-intimidating like eating a hot dog (unless you are vegan or vegetarian) The third generation 2015 MX-5 tester features a power retractable hard top, limited slip differential and Bilstein dampers.  After a nearly 10 year lifecycle most have seen it, heard about it and maybe driven it. The interior is bare bones, simple but heavily dated. Center stack is not much to look and steering wheel is very skinny without proper ergo thumb grips like in Mazda3 and 6.

The exterior with many refreshes still has that unique “Miata” look as most can immediately identify it by first glance. Interior space is exactly what you would expect from a small convertible but for those who fit it’s a comfortable place. Trunk space is something that will handle a few overnight bags and toolbox.  The real magic however is the driving experience.

The MX-5 has neutral handling, great manual transmission with short gearing and plenty peppy 2.0L make this light weight car fun to drive.  It’s just as simple as winding it out over and over again.  Chassis rigidity is not all bad, some cowl shake of course but overall this car just gives the driver confidence to push.  The only real issue we take is just how rollie pollie it feels.  There is just too much suspension lean and body roll.  Looking at the suspension geometry we can tell this car was setup for motorsports which means you can lower it and still have plenty of suspension travel without having to fiddle with bump steer kits, roll center corrections and that maybe why in stock form the car just seems to roll plenty before suspension sets.  

The ride makes it feel less intimidating and edgy but also makes for an extremely livable daily driver.  Overall if someone is in the market for a small sporty convertible, there are not many options, actually this is it and there is a reason for it.

Mazda Notes:
"Ball joints on the rear give more precise handling than rubber bushings. Rear suspension is surprisingly important for steering response."

·         "The PRHT is softer than the soft top, so those who want a sharper, stiffer car should go for the soft top club spec"

·         "Miatas always have soft suspension with a fair amount of roll. Reason is that soft suspension gives better tire contact on rough roads, and good roads are always rough. The best back roads roads are the ones without other cars on them, and those roads are always poorly maintained."

Pros:

• Motor
• Trans
• Neutral chassis
• Suspension adjustability and setup
• Easy to drive
• Lightweight
• Comfortable (If you fit)
• Motorsports heritage

Cons:

• Dated Interior
• Body Roll
• Seats are flat and unsupportive
• Seat Heaters insanely hot
• Center console storage marginal
• Life cycle absurd 
• Zero Prestige