TEST DRIVES
2024 MX-5 Miata Grand Touring
The 2024 Mazda MX-5 Miata Grand Touring exemplifies Mazda’s commitment to delivering a lightweight, agile sports car that marries performance, style, and comfort in one package. Available in both Soft Top and RF (Retractable Fastback) versions, the MX-5 continues to be a favorite for driving enthusiasts who appreciate the open-air experience without compromising on modern conveniences and features.
What’s New for 2024?
Mazda has made several updates for the 2024 MX-5 Miata Grand Touring to enhance its already engaging driving dynamics:
- Refined Kinematic Posture Control: Mazda has fine-tuned the Kinematic Posture Control system to further reduce body roll and improve cornering, offering even greater precision when navigating twisty roads.
- New Exterior Colors: Exciting new color options, including Zircon Sand and Deep Crystal Blue Mica, allow for more personalization and give the Miata an even sportier appearance.
- Improved Connectivity: The Mazda CONNECT™ infotainment system now supports wireless Apple CarPlay™ and wireless Android Auto™, eliminating the need for cables and improving convenience.
Competitors
In the compact sports car market, the 2024 Mazda MX-5 Miata Grand Touring faces tough competition:
- Toyota GR86 / Subaru BRZ: These offer more power and a fixed-roof design, focusing on track performance but lack the Miata’s open-air charm and lightweight feel.
- Mini Cooper Convertible: A fun, quirky competitor, though its front-wheel-drive setup doesn’t deliver the same rear-wheel-drive thrills as the MX-5.
- BMW Z4: A more luxurious, turbocharged option, but at a much higher price point and with less nimble handling.
- Ford Mustang EcoBoost Convertible: With more power and straight-line speed, the Mustang lacks the Miata’s nimble, lightweight handling that true driving enthusiasts love.
Exterior Design
The 2024 MX-5 Grand Touring immediately grabs attention with its sporty design. Every aerodynamic curve not only looks striking but also hints at the thrilling performance it’s built for. As I cruise down the road, the 17-inch Metallic Black Alloy wheels catch the light, adding to the car’s bold presence. The new color options elevate its look even further, giving it a fresh, modern edge. And for those moments when I want the versatility of a coupe, the RF model’s retractable hardtop closes smoothly, transforming the Miata into a sleek, hardtop beauty while still offering that unmistakable roadster feel when open.
Functional details like LED headlights, auto on/off headlights, and rain-sensing windshield wipers ensure that the exterior design is both stylish and practical for everyday use.
On the Road: Performance and Efficiency
Under the hood of the 2024 Mazda MX-5 Miata, the SKYACTIV®-G 2.0L 4-cylinder engine delivers a responsive 181 horsepower and 151 lb-ft of torque, making every press of the gas pedal feel lively. While the power figures might not sound extreme, the Miata’s lightweight design turns it into a rocket on the road, with quick acceleration that keeps the thrill alive. Choosing the 6-speed manual transmission puts me in total control, making each gear shift feel rewarding, while the 6-speed automatic with paddle shifters offers a seamless balance of performance and convenience. No matter the choice, the Miata makes every drive an exciting experience.
Taking the 2024 MX-5 Miata Grand Touring through a series of winding roads, I can feel Mazda’s Kinematic Posture Control. The car stays planted and responsive, delivering sharp, confident cornering with every turn. The double-wishbone front suspension and Bilstein® dampers soak up the bumps, keeping the ride smooth yet incredibly agile. Paired with Dynamic Stability Control, the MX-5 feels like it’s built for these roads, handling each twist effortlessly. And despite the thrilling performance, I’m still amazed that it manages to stay so fuel-efficient, easily hitting up to 35 mpg on the highway.
Comfort and Technology
Sitting in the 2024 MX-5 feels like stepping into a perfect combination of comfort and modern tech. The heated leather-trimmed seats wrap you in warmth, while the automatic climate control keeps the cabin just right, no matter the weather outside. The Mazda CONNECT™ infotainment system is effortlessly intuitive, letting me connect my phone wirelessly with Apple CarPlay™ or Android Auto™—no cables, just instant access to my music, maps, and more. As I take the top down, the BOSE® 9-speaker audio system, with speakers built right into the headrests, surrounds me with rich, crisp sound, making every moment on the road feel immersive and alive.
Keyless entry, heated mirrors, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror with HomeLink® bring modern convenience to the timeless sports car experience, making every drive easier and more enjoyable.
Safety & Technology
Safety features are not overlooked in the 2024 MX-5 Miata Grand Touring. Mazda offers features like Blind Spot Monitoring, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, and Lane Departure Warning to keep you aware of nearby hazards, providing an extra layer of safety. On the highway, Mazda Radar Cruise Control adapts to the flow of traffic, ensuring long drives are smoother and more relaxing.
As you drive, the Traffic Sign Recognition system seamlessly notifies you of speed limits and road signs, helping you stay aware and drive safely..
Final Thoughts
The 2024 Mazda MX-5 Miata Grand Touring offers performance, style, and technology for drivers who want a thrilling, open-air driving experience without sacrificing comfort or convenience. Its lightweight design, responsive handling, and refined features make it a standout in the compact sports car segment. Whether carving up winding roads or cruising with the top down, the MX-5 offers a unique connection to the road that few cars can match, maintaining its position as one of the most enjoyable sports cars on the market.
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