Change typically comes slowly to the Mazda Miata which remains surprisingly close in design to the original roadster introduced back in 1989. But while the Japanese automaker doesn’t go for revolutionary makeovers, the 2024 Mazda Miata shows that even modest updates can be quite welcome. Headlight.News takes a closer look.
Cosmetic changes are modest on the 2024 Mazda Miata, but useful, with new LED lights front and back.
Even as sports cars fade in fashion, the little Mazda Miata retains its loyal following. And it’s getting some significant revisions for the 2024 model year that fans are likely to welcome.
The revisions cover a broad range, from exterior design tweaks to a number of interior updates that finally bring the latest Mazda infotainment technology. And for those who love to push the little 2-seater to its limits, there’s a new asymmetric limited-slip differential on all but the base Sport version of the 2024 Mazda Miata.
Aesthetic updates
One of the biggest changes Mazda delivered over the years was the decision to abandon the once familiar Mazda Miata pop-up headlights. This year’s package doesn’t go anywhere near as far. But the 2024 roadster does now get new LED head and taillights.
The Miata also gets new wheel designs and a new paint upgrade called Aero Gray that comes as a $450 option.
The interior
The 2024 Mazda Miata gauges are more readable.
Gets added padding in several welcome places, including the center console. There’s a new, $300 tan Nappa leather package and more readable gauges. But the big news here is the switch to an 8.8-inch infotainment screen.
Upgraded tech
Over the years, Miata became something of an orphan when it comes to it infotainment system. No longer. The 2024 roadster gets Mazda’s first use of the Amazon Alexa-based operating system – which should be good news for those who’ve struggled with the old and balky voice recognition system.
Oddly, it can only be operated by the rotary knob on the center console – unless, that is, you switch to Apple CarPlay or Android Auto which can be operated directly on the touchscreen.
The 2024 Miata gets a new Amazon Alexa-based operating system with improved voice recognition.
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Powertrain updates
The new asymmetric limited-slip differential should come across as big news for Miata owners – a high percentage of whom like to push the little roadster to its limits, whether on the street or in sanctioned SCCA programs.
It promises to improve cornering while also reducing both under- and oversteer, Mazda claims. It’s available on both the Club and Grand Touring editions. Mazda also adds a new DSC-Track mode that means the LSD is less intrusive – but still there if you start to get in over your head.
While the 2.0-liter I-4 engine carries over, most versions of the 2024 Miata get a new, asymmetric limited-slip differential.
As for the rest of the powertrain, the 2.0-liter inline-four is carried over. It makes 181 horsepower and 151 pound-feet of torque. Most Miata buyers tend to opt for the 6-speed manual. But for those who simply don’t like to row their own, the 2024 roadster offers a 6-speed automatic with paddle shifters on the Grand Touring model.
With the automatic transmission fuel economy is expected to hold, as well, at 26 mpg city, 35 highway, 30 combined. The manual comes in at 26/34/29.
Pricing
Look for a slight increase in pricing for the 2024 Mazda Miata. Including the $1,165 delivery fee the base Sport starts at $30,150 with the 6-speed manual and a convertible top. The Grand Touring with an automatic comes in at $36,370.
The “retractable fastback,” or RF, adds $2,775 on the Grand Touring models. But that folding hardtop jumps to $7,725 on the Club because the package adds performance features including Recaro heated seats, BBS wheels and front Brembo brakes.
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