The Mazda MX-5 Miata Gets a Little More Fun for 2024; Pricing Confirmed

If you were to ask an auditorium full of autocross enthusiasts what car is the most fun to take through the cones (let alone on a reasonable budget), we’d hedge our bets on the Mazda MX-5 Miata being among the top answers– if not the number one pick. A staple of low-power and relatively low-cost fun since its 90’s debut, this little roadster is unsurprisingly back for 2024; and with this new model year comes a few updates.

Speaking to performance, Mazda has made changes to the electric power steering system, the most substantial of which is a new steering rack. This upgrade is said to have reduced friction and, when paired with software calibrations, allows for smoother steering action and precision in hard cornering. The available limited-slip differential has been upgraded to an “Asymmetrical LSD,” which is said to improve stability when entering a corner while resisting oversteer, then resisting understeer upon acceleration. And lastly, a new “DSC-Track” setting has been added to the Miata’s stability control program. According to Mazda, this setting raises the threshold for brake intervention, only activating when it’s really needed.

The MX-5 Miata is still powered by a naturally-aspirated 2.0-liter 4-cylinder, producing 181 horsepower and 151 lb-ft of torque. Power is sent to the rear wheels through a standard six-speed manual in the Sport and Club models; however, the top Grand Touring trim can be had with either the six-speed or an equally-geared automatic with paddle shifters.

Exterior changes are subtle, though we suspect Miata-faithful have already spotted the updated headlights. They illuminate with a new LED DRL element and are joined by new taillights. Fresh wheel designs are available for purchase, and customers can now opt for a new “Aero Gray” color, joining 2023’s “Zircon Sand Metallic” addition. Inside, expect a few changes that we’d call “quality of life” enhancements. The center console is covered by extra padding for more comfort; the gauge cluster has been simplified by new, high-contrast graphics; and all models are equipped with an 8.8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, paired up with built-in Alexa– a first for Mazda.

With these changes, pricing has also seen a slight bump, too. Not to fear, as the 2024 MX-5 Miata starts at $30,150 with Mazda’s $1,165 destination charge attached. This is for the entry-level Sport model, and this new total represents a price increase of $825 when destination is factored in. Moving up the chain, a Miata Club will start at $33,650, and an additional $4,800 will be tacked on for the Brembo/BBS/Recaro Package. The Grand Touring starts at $35,450, climbing to $36,370 when equipped with the automatic transmission. 

If you prefer a hard top “RF” model over the soft tops we’ve been summarizing, you can pick one up starting at $38,175. That’s for a manual-transmission Grand Touring; the RF Club starts higher at $41,375, but does include the Brembo/BBS/Recaro package as standard. 

The 2024 Mazda MX-5 Miata goes on sale this winter.