2012 Mazda Miata MX-5
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2012 Mazda Miata MX-5 Review
What's New for 2012
Interior
By KBB.com Editors
KBB Expert Rating: 8.4
Most of the world's automotive legends come from earlier times, with very few post-1970s cars making the list. One that does is the 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata, a 23-year mainstay of the Mazda line and the only compact, modestly-priced 2-seat roadster offered in the U.S. Since its introduction, the Mazda MX-5 Miata has garnered fans from all ages, both male and female, who simply love the open-air experience, the go-kart-like handling and near bullet-proof repair and reliability ratings. Over the years, Mazda has refined the MX-5 Miata formula, adding more safety and convenience features, as well as more power and chassis rigidity. But the basic MX-5 Miata flavor is still the same, which is why this little roadster remains popular, year after year.
You'll Like This Car If...
If you grew up attracted to classic British roadsters from Triumph and MG, or you just love the feeling of a small, well-connected roadster that was born for curving back roads, you're a candidate for the 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata convertible. Open-air fans will find lots to like, especially the Miata's sub-$25,000 starting price. Those who live in cold climates will appreciate the retractable hardtop option.
You May Not Like This Car If...
If you need one car to do many things, and there is more than one of you to consider with this purchase, the 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata convertible may be a poor choice. The compact trunk and two-seat configuration severely limits the MX-5 Miata's cargo and people-hauling abilities.
What's New for 2012
The only significant change to the 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata convertible line is the addition of electronic traction and stability control on all models.
Driving the Miata MX-5
Driving Impressions There is nothing about the 2012 Mazda Miata convertible that we don't like. Is it loaded with horsepower? No. But, with a total weight of roughly 2,500 pounds, the 167-horsepower...
2.0-liter engine is more than sufficient. From the lovely quick-shifting manual transmission to the near-instantaneous steering turn-in response, the 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata is a true enthusiast driver's dream. The MX-5 Miata's all-independent suspension and almost 50/50 front-to-rear weight distribution contribute to the terrific level of handling, as well as the compliant ride. And, while its development over twenty years has necessarily accommodated new safety and emission legislation, the tight, lithe platform continues to deliver an almost magical connection with the asphalt and fresh air. It's more than mere transport; it's transport to another place.
Favorite Features
2.0-liter DOHC 4-Cylinder Engine
There is no supercharger or turbo to boost output, no V6 crammed under the hood to throw off the 50/50 weight balance, just a marvelously rev-happy 2.0-liter engine that responds without complaint and sips fuel to the tune of 28 mpg.
Aluminum
To look at the MX-5 Miata's spec sheet, you'd think the starting price was in the mid-$30s or even $40s, rather than mid-$20s, as the structure utilizes a remarkable amount of lightweight (and relatively costly) aluminum. Hood, trunk, front suspension control arms, rear suspension uprights and rear brake calipers are all crafted in a material many carmakers seem yet to discover in any meaningful quantities. It keeps the MX-5 Miata commendably light and wonderfully responsive.
2012 Mazda Miata MX-5 Details
Interior
There is no getting around the fact that the 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata convertible's interior is a snug affair but, for those who can wedge themselves inside, it promises to be a great ride. The beauty of the MX-5 Miata's interior is that, if you're shorter than six feet tall, there is ample leg and head room, even with the top up. The seats might be marginally comfortable for some, and a few people may find them not to be the best for longer trips. Amazingly, the 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata convertible's trunk is big enough to fit a large overnight bag or a few days' worth of groceries. The interior materials are well above what we'd expect at this price, with Grand Touring models outfitted with heated leather seats, Bose audio and automatic climate control.
Exterior
We could describe the 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata convertible's most alluring features to you, or you could just look at a picture, because what you see is what you get. The sleek exterior shares no sheet metal or parts with the last-generation Miata, but the two look amazingly similar. The MX-5 Miata's retractable soft top is a marvel of engineering, requiring only one arm to open and close. Those looking for a bit more comfort and security can opt for the retractable hardtop version, which amazingly takes up no trunk space and results in the loss of only a small storage compartment behind the driver's seat.
Notable Equipment
Standard Equipment
Despite an entry-level price tag, the base 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata Sport is comprehensively equipped. A 5-speed manual transmission, power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering, electronic traction and stability control, side-impact airbags, 16-inch alloy wheels, air conditioning, glass rear window with defroster, power windows, leather-wrapped steering wheel, adjustable-height driver's seat and AM/FM/CD with MP3 playback capability are but a few of the highlights. In short, despite a relatively low price tag (under $25K), the entry-level 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata is almost elegantly equipped.
Optional Equipment
Most of the 2012 MX-5 Miata's available options are packaged in the trim-level upgrades. Touring and Grand Touring models add a sixth gear to the manual transmission; all three trim levels offer an available 6-speed automatic as an option. The Touring - and by extension, Grand Touring - has 17-inch alloy wheels, a chrome grille surround, power door locks, an in-dash 6-disc CD changer and remote keyless entry. Moving up from the Touring trim level to the Grand Touring adds a black or beige cloth top (instead of the Sport and Touring black vinyl top), automatic air conditioning, leather seating and a Bose audio system. A more aggressive Sport suspension (with Bilstein shocks and limited-slip differential) can be added to both Touring and Grand Touring models equipped with the manual transmission. The retractable hardtop is offered on Touring or Grand Touring trim levels and adds the power retractable hardtop with a glass rear window and rear defroster.
Under the Hood
With 167 horsepower at 7,000 rpm from its 2.0 liters of displacement, the 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata's powertrain is merely middle-of-the-pack in terms of power output. But what it provides in driving enjoyment puts it solidly in pole position, with feedback - both mechanical and aural - fully appropriate to the classic sports-car experience. And much of that has been engineered into the car. One example: The engine's plastic composite intake manifold is designed to transmit - rather than mask - certain frequencies that duplicate a sports car's "sound." Both 5-speed and 6-speed manual transmissions are short in their throws and precise in their actuations. And, as noted, a 6-speed automatic is optional across the board, but truly appropriate only if you've lost your left leg in a racing accident.
2.0-liter in-line 4
167 horsepower @ 7,000 rpm (manual); 158 horsepower @ 6,700 rpm (automatic)
140 lb-ft of torque @ 5,000 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 22/28 (5-speed manual), 21/28 (6-speed manual), 21/28 (6-speed automatic)
Pricing Notes
The three 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata convertible trim levels - Sport, Touring and Grand Touring - range in price from about $24,000 (5-speed Sport) to almost $29,000 (Grand Touring automatic), plus whatever port or dealer-installed accessories the consumer would care to add. The power retractable hard top Touring starts around $28,000 and a loaded Grand Touring tops out around $33,000. Be sure and check kbb.com's Fair Purchase Price for what consumers are paying in your market area. Historically, MX-5 Miata resale value has been consistently strong, a testament to both its long-term reliability and desirability to successive generations of car buyers.
To compare current market prices, check out KBB.com's car classifieds to view the new and used Mazda Miata MX-5 vehicles for sale near you.
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2012 Mazda Miata MX-5 Consumer Reviews
Based on 172 Ratings for the 2006 - 2013 models.
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ValueQuality
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ReliabilityPerformance
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ComfortStyling
Excellent roadster
By Alex S. (CA) on Tuesday, July 30, 2013
I own this car - My approximate mileage is 25,000
overall rating 10 of 10rating detailsReviewer Ratings
- Overall Rating
- Value
- Reliability
- Quality
- Performance
- Styling
- Comfort
Pros: "great price, corners great, hard top convertible"
Cons: "A few small issues (see review)"
Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10
Waiting to be driven...
"This car is quick and handles well right out of the box. I have the Touring trim with a Power Hard Top and use it as a daily driver. Due to California weather, I am able to drive top down nearly year round, which is a huge benefit for convertible owners. In addition, it's our preferred road trip car of choice (at least until we have kids) because you can put the top down without compromising trunk space. The only issues I have had so far are as follows: 1. Rattling behind radio due to unsecured satellite radio wire, which would resonate as RPMs increased - fixed under warranty 2. A couple of other minor rattles - found by my Mazda dealer and fixed under warranty 3. Significant brake dust and squealing from OEM brake pads - I replaced the brakes early at 20k miles with ceramic pads and haven't had this issue again since 4. Rear struts are currently seeping - this is a disappointing issue because they shouldn't be showing signs of failure this early and the car is just a couple of months outside of warranty. I am going to contact the dealer soon to see if a goodwill fix can be made even though the car is out of warranty. 5. It's really hard to avoid swirl marks on black paint. 6. The interior door panels above the armrests show scuffs easily, but a quick rub with a damp towel removes them. When I think about the British roadsters the Miata was modeled after and all the problems they have, these issues seem pretty minor. For the price and the amount of fun that can be had with this car, you can tell why it's a well respected car by enthusiasts."
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Waiting to be driven...
love it, love it
By jojo (AR) on Tuesday, May 28, 2013
I own this car - My approximate mileage is 31,000
overall rating 10 of 10rating detailsReviewer Ratings
- Overall Rating
- Value
- Reliability
- Quality
- Performance
- Styling
- Comfort
Pros: "My 10 ratings in all categories says it all"
Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10
"We bought a Miata the first year they came out. Now on my fourth one, a 2008. As long as I have a license (I'm 72) I will drive a Miata."
6 people out of 6 found this review helpful
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Nothing to say except GREAT CAR.
By Art (NE) on Wednesday, March 27, 2013
I own this car - My approximate mileage is 40,000
overall rating 10 of 10rating detailsReviewer Ratings
- Overall Rating
- Value
- Reliability
- Quality
- Performance
- Styling
- Comfort
Pros: "Price, Fun to drive."
Cons: "None, if you accept the car for what it is."
Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10
"Everything that you could want in a true roadster without spending over $30,000. Response to asking for power and speed, exact steering, brakes that respond, this roadster has it all. Fun is what this car is all about. Wind in your hair type of fun."
4 people out of 4 found this review helpful
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The Driver's Car.
By DjFlank (CA) on Monday, March 18, 2013
I don't own this car
overall rating 8 of 10rating detailsReviewer Ratings
- Overall Rating
- Value
- Reliability
- Quality
- Performance
- Styling
- Comfort
Pros: "handling, charisma, blast to drive"
Cons: "interior and audio"
Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 9
"Imagine this; Beautiful Southern California weather, minimual afternoon traffic, and a brand new rear wheel drive sports car for under $30,000. Today I got to live that dream in the 2013 Mazda MX-5 club sport. I was greeted by a very nice sales rep who had no problem handing over the keys and coming along for the ride. The club sport puts down its 167 horses thanks to a 4.10 gear ratio and its 6 speed short shift gear box, and boy does it. I was flying through gears with traction control very off, and it just put the power down where you want it. Throttle respnse is amazing and so is the steering. I found myself smiling the whole time until the inevitable stop sign brought me to a stop on the club sports amazing brake system. The car's chassis is very rigid for a convertible, yet feels very light on its feet. I found myself smiling everytime I was presented with a corner, attacking it with ease. The club sport definatly brings out driver confidence, and definatly makes you want to go out and drive. For a car that has low profile tires you would expect a harsh ride, but mazda has found a very nice medium between sporty and comfort. With the top up there isn't too much road noise, and sitting that low to the ground you do feel like you are driving around in a massive go-kart. Overall I was very satisfied with the MX-5 Club sport. The interior was on the lacking side as the seats only sort of held you in place, and the radio felt like an aftermarket from the 90's. I also didn't care too much for the lack of quality in the plastics but for under 30k I know not to demand Grass-fed-pampered cows hand stiched to perfection, but it would be nice if you are going to slap a club sport badge and give it sporty persona you should make the driver feel more like they are a part of the expierience and image that you market. Interior aside It felt like this car would be a great weekend warrior on the track, or on your favorite mountain roads. This is the perfect car for anybody, and I mean anybody. You don't need to be a professional to control this car, though it makes the driver feel as such. The overall feel of the car makes it have that charisma... the cheap and cheerful car that makes you smile. The car seduces you into a trance that makes you just smile, and as onlookers take a second glance, you feel like you are the big shot who knows what a car should be. Withen the short time i had with this car I felt as if there was hope in this world of electronics, and dual clutch automatics that make you feel more like you are playing a game rather than driving. I would recomend this car to anyone who still belives in the driver car, a person who likes there cars light on the feet, tight proper manual gear box, and drive wheels at the back. The club spec MX-5 really puts the driver back in the car."
6 people out of 7 found this review helpful
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Inexpensive to run for long term fun
By Triode (CA) on Saturday, January 26, 2013
I own this car - My approximate mileage is 12,000
overall rating 9 of 10rating detailsReviewer Ratings
- Overall Rating
- Value
- Reliability
- Quality
- Performance
- Styling
- Comfort
Pros: "Fun to drive, reliable, inexpensive, Classic look"
Cons: "Noisy, body roll."
Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10
"If you believe "Less is more", you should test drive one of this! Miatas are light, nimble, fun, easy to run in the long run,and surprisingly inexpensive to insure (due to majority of the owners are in their 35+). Simple old school design (no turbo, supercharger, direct port injections.....) Nothing different than a 20+ years old super reliable Japanese car from Honda and Toyota in term of maintenance costs. Timeless and classic look make this roadster ---one of the bargain in auto industry. BRZ / FRS maybe more technology advances in these days. But I think it's not going to be as inexpensive to insure and maintain in the long run than the Miata. Not to mention, PRHT makes it even more special in its class. Of course, it's even close to perfect, it noisy at highway speed with the top up. NC needs at least an upgrade RX8 sway bars to kill the unacceptable body roll for daily driving. (Just a $200 fix normally including labor)"
13 people out of 15 found this review helpful
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More fun than any other car I've ever driven.
By Broomhilda (HI) on Monday, December 17, 2012
I own this car - My approximate mileage is 180,000
overall rating 10 of 10rating detailsReviewer Ratings
- Overall Rating
- Value
- Reliability
- Quality
- Performance
- Styling
- Comfort
Pros: "Zoom zoom."
Cons: "Big vehicles tend to back into you."
Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10
"Marvin is a '97 sport model I bought in July, 2000, with 10,000 miles on the odometer and in near-perfect shape. He's taken me on a 15,000 mile trip around the continental US with a side trip to Baja and gets me home up the mountain nightly. He's been towed exactly twice in 10 years with the only major repair being head gasket replacement a few years ago. I'm 62 and plan to drive him till I die since it doesn't look like he is ever going to. He gets a new roof and paint job next week - bumble bee yellow with black stripes for visibility. The only down side is my bad knees; getting out sometimes feels like climbing out of a well."
8 people out of 8 found this review helpful
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Available Miata MX-5 Models
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Mazda Miata MX-5 Convertible
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