Time flies when you’re having fun. It’s hard to believe the ND Mazda Miata has been out for 10 years now. But it’s easy to believe that my desire to own one is higher than ever. In the last 10 years, we’ve seen the automotive industry leveled by supply chain issues, inflation, and a hard-pressing EV agenda. Yet the Mazda Miata is still the best driver’s car at twice its price. It’s still pure, it still real, and it’s still $30,000. In 2025, that makes it the last of its kind (along with the GR86/BRZ; read review here). In fact, both platforms are so good – if we give them the chance – I think they can save humans from a fate of forgettable convenience, blind consumption, and autonomy. I don’t know how it can be done, but the world needs to drive a Miata.
The Mazda Miata is a legend…
It’s been consistently true from the start. From 1990 till now – for 35 years – the recipe has not changed. Mazda hasn’t compromised the Miata, diluted it, ran it upmarket, or bloated it out. And the Miata’s price has been protected rather than exploited. Can we say that about any other sports car??
Better with age…
Mazda released the 4th generation (ND) Miata in 2015. Then for 2019, the ND Miata got better air & fuel delivery, lighter internals, and thus a higher redline. Resulting in an even more enhanced driving experience, and a bump in horsepower from 155 to 181. Then in 2024… Mazda gave the ND Miata a 2nd round of improvements. Aesthetically, there are subtle changes to the headlights, running-lights, taillights, and the screen got a little larger. But from a driver’s perspective, Mazda refined the limited-slip in the manual cars to reduce lift-oversteer. Mazda has also tweaked the steering for a ‘more natural’ feel. Additionally, the stability control (in Track Mode) has been updated to NOT step-in & over-interfere. In 2024/2025 ask yourself: Who else is making cars that DON’T over-interfere? And who else is prioritizing a MORE NATURAL feel?
THE 2025 MAZDA MIATA…
Is hands-down, one of the greats. It’s time to stop looking at the Miata as a nerdy little sports car. And it’s time to start seeing it as the badass it’s become. Strength, authenticity, fortitude – Miata defies the modern automotive narrative. The modern automotive industry is pushing mobility. Whereas the Miata is talking about driving. You see the difference there? One is robotic & disconnected, while the other is human & soulful. In 2025, you can be a passenger behind the steering wheel of your own car… or you can nut-up & freaking drive it. You can exist… or you can live. The choice is yours lol.
