Photo: Youtube Screenshot | Nitro Nation
A lot has changed since then, and while the NA (first-generation MX-5) is still a fun everyday car, much like its successors the NB and NC, it is actually the ND that still receives a lot of attention today, even though it will turn ten in 2025. The latest generation entered production at the brand's Hiroshima plant in Japan in March 2015, and several special editions have graced the range since then.
For the 2024 model year, Mazda has given the MX-5 Miata a slew of updates. The headlights, LED daytime running lights, taillights, and wheels are all part of the revisions, and the color palette also includes a new shade called Aero Gray. An 8.8-inch infotainment system has replaced the old 7-inch display inside and benefits from Alexa voice control. There’s also a new instrument cluster, and the steering rack has been updated as well.
By choosing the Club trim level you will get the DSC-Track mode and a new limited-slip differential, and power comes from the familiar 2.0-liter engine. The four-cylinder unit makes 181 horsepower (184 ps/135 kW) and 151 lb-ft (205 Nm) of torque. Buyers can choose between an automatic or manual transmission, both with six speeds, depending on the trim level selected.
Photo: Youtube Screenshot | Nitro Nation
The lineup includes the Sport, Club, and Grand Touring versions of the 2024 Mazda MX-5 Miata, and they’re priced at $28,985, $32,485, and $34,285, respectively. If you’d prefer a folding hardtop rather than the regular MX-5’s ragtop, you can get the MX-5 Miata RF for $40,210 for the Club and $37,010 for the Grand Touring, which offers the same goodies and is powered by the same engine.
Over the years, there has been talk not only of a possible new rotary-powered RX sports model, but also of the rumored rotary engine making its way under the hood of the MX-5. However, it’s become clear that Mazda has no intention of expanding the lineup with an all-new RX-7/RX-8 or Miata rotary-hybrid, although those models aren’t entirely out of the question. Reports suggest that the Japanese automaker may eventually give this idea a try once it clears some hurdles, such as new emissions regulations.
The idea of a rotary-powered sports car seems extremely appealing to a good portion of the petrolhead crowd, especially if it were paired with a hybrid system that would make it quite the punchy car. Assuming Mazda also overcomes the technical issues of a rotary engine and ends up launching a successful rotary-powered product (or more), then it would certainly end up on the shopping list of many enthusiasts, especially if it remained relatively affordable.
At the moment, no one knows exactly what the future holds for the Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, a new generation seems like the logical step, as we don't think the company is willing to give up on this model. Rumor has it that the next generation could go fully hybrid or even electric, and while we're not fans of the latter, we'd definitely support the former to keep the ICE live recipe at all costs.
Photo: Youtube Screenshot | Nitro Nation
Design-wise, all MX-5 Miatas are stunning, especially the ND (latest generation), so Mazda has a lot on its plate when it comes to styling its would-be successor. One vehicle that could serve as inspiration, at least to a certain extent, is the stunning RX-Vision Concept. The concept debuted nine years ago and remains one of the best-looking Mazdas (and more) ever. With a few tweaks, we think the next-generation MX-5 would look great with similar design cues, and we’re not the only ones who think so.
YouTube channel Nitro Nation, who you may remember from previous renders we covered, recently took to the popular streaming platform to virtually walk through a hypothetical next-generation Mazda MX-5 Miata. The CGI model takes inspiration from the aforementioned concept. It remains instantly recognizable as a Mazda. It has a long hood, a sexy nose, a clean profile, and a rear end that looks like a high-end evolution of the current roadster.
Overall, this rendered model is a sexy proposition that could make any modern Mazda blush, especially if it stayed true to the DNA of its predecessors. So, it would need a lightweight construction, rear-wheel drive, and a small but powerful engine under that long hood. We hope someone at Mazda sees these digital illustrations and decides to send them to the brand's design team, because this virtual 2026 Mazda MX-5 Miata is one sexy roadster. Imagine paying around $30,000 for a brand-new MX-5 that looks like this! Oh, one can only dream… But do you even like this idea or do you think the next Miata should stay a little simpler?
