There really isn’t much to say about the soft-top 2024 Mazda MX-5 that hasn’t been said before, minus a few updates Mazda made for 2024. The MX-5 — or Miata, which it’s still known by among most enthusiasts around the world — remains the cheapest entry point for droptop driving among new cars. It also remains one of the purest sports car experiences you can get at any price.
The MX-5 is perfectly balanced, lightweight, and rear-wheel-drive. Add one of the best manual transmissions in the business, and you have a recipe for fun, regardless of whether you want to commute, cruise, or tear up some winding roads. For 2024, Mazda is sweetening the deal with a few mechanical tweaks including a “Track” mode for its stability control programming, retuned steering, and a new type of limited-slip differential, as well as a number of quality-of-life updates like an auto-dim driver’s side mirror, a larger infotainment display running Mazda’s newest software, and subtle style updates. Adaptive cruise control and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are available on higher trims, and also new for 2024.
Our tester is the GS-P trim equipped with the Sport package. It costs a not-insignificant $4,400, but if you want to add a bit more flare, this package is a must. It includes Brembo brakes, 17-inch BBS wheels, and Recaro seats. Those with slimmer figures will love how the sport seats hug you in aggressive driving, but my six-foot-three frame and wide posterior had a difficult time getting comfortable. If I were buying one for myself, I’d probably stick with the standard seats.
Those hoping for more power will be disappointed, as Mazda left the engine untouched. The 2.0-litre normally aspirated four-cylinder engine puts out 181 horsepower and 151 pound-feet of torque, but this suits me just fine. The engine loves to rev, the six-speed manual is as slick as ever, and with the MX-5 being so lightweight and low to the ground, it feels plenty quick. But an MX-5 isn’t just about the engine; it’s built to be tossed around and pushed to its limits. Unlike high-power sports cars, it won’t try to kill you when you push it. The MX-5’s ride is firm but not jarring, and there’s more body roll than you’d expect, but that’s part of its nature. It’s approachable, communicative, and you always know where you really want to explore its limits.
Climb into the snug confines of the 2024 MX-5 and you get a well-crafted interior. Materials look and feel good, and anything you’d need is within easy reach, but it’s tight especially for taller individuals. The tight confines also come with a lack of storage cubbies and pockets; the only one you do get is positioned between the seats and requires an awkward twist to access. The 2024 MX-5 still uses the same cupholder design as it did when it first came out in 2016, so depending on where you choose to reposition them, they’ll either impede your elbow room, or your passenger’s knee room. Cargo space is limited to 130 litres, but thankfully, the convertible top doesn’t impede that, whether it’s up or down.
And what an engineering marvel that convertible top continues to be. It’s manually operated, simple to use, and has zero impact on cargo capacity. When it’s time for your daily Vitamin D intake, just unlock the top, push it down to close, lock it in place, and reverse the steps when the forecast calls for rain — all while using one hand. No muss, no fuss, no electric motors or fussy mechanisms, no expensive repairs down the line. For those who prefer more of a year-round solution, Mazda continues to offer the stunning MX-5 RF with its power targa top.
Starting at $34,900 for the base GS trim, the MX-5 remains the cheapest way to buy a brand-new convertible in 2024, period, let alone one with a manual transmission and rear-wheel-drive. The GS-P trim starts at $38,900; with another $4,400 for the Sport package and $300 for a new paint colour Mazda calls Aero Grey, you’re looking at $43,600 as-tested. Sure, a Mustang EcoBoost convertible offers much more power and comfort for similar money, but it’s a heavier car and automatic-only.
Talk to any MX-5 — or Miata — owner past or present, and they’ll likely have nothing but praise for its ability to bring a smile to almost anyone’s face. With a level of quality, reliability, engagement, and style few competitors can match for the money, the 2024 Mazda MX-5 marches on as one of the purest sports cars available at any price.
