Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.
About the 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata
The 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata is a sports that earns a Carivo score of 8.0/10 — rated Recommended. Its strongest dimension is Reliability at 9.0/10, while Technology at 6.1/10 is where it trails the competition most noticeably. It's a solid all-rounder that delivers across most dimensions without obvious deal-breakers.
Reliability and safety are the two dimensions that matter most for long-term ownership costs. Reliability stands out at 9.0/10. The MX-5 Miata nameplate has earned that score through its track record and a comparatively clean recall sheet. Safety lands at 7.2/10 — solid, though some rivals offer more advanced driver-assist features as standard. Confirm official results for your trim at nhtsa.gov/ratings.
Few rivals match it for performance: 8.2/10. Expect handling and power delivery that make this one of the more entertaining sportss to actually drive. Technology scores 6.1/10 — the infotainment and driver-assist features feel dated against current-generation rivals. This is worth weighing if you prioritize connected features or modern safety tech.
Priced from $25,506–$33,467, 26 MPG, seating 2, the Mazda MX-5 Miata sits in the mid-market bracket of the sports segment. Its value score of 8.7/10 confirms that the price reflects the quality — you're getting a lot for your money here. At 6 years old, resale value, parts availability, and whether a successor model has improved on its weak points are all worth investigating before committing.
Verdict: Nothing about the 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata will scare a sensible buyer off. Keep an eye on technology if those matter to you; otherwise it does what a good sports should — quietly and competently.
Carivo scores are our own editorial assessment, informed by NHTSA safety and recall records, EPA fuel-economy figures, and manufacturer-published specifications. Scores are reviewed periodically and updated when new data becomes available. See our full methodology →
How It Ranks Among Sportss
The 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata ranks #68 of 316 sportss in the Carivo database — better than 79% of the segment. Its 8.0/10 overall score is 0.3 points above the segment average of 7.7/10. Its $25,506 starting price undercuts the segment's median of $46,090 by about 45%.
Varies widely by driver and state — always quote the exact trim before buying
We only print costs we can compute from sourced data (EPA fuel economy, NHTSA recalls). We don't estimate maintenance or depreciation — anyone who gives you one number for those is guessing.
Which MX-5 Miata Year Should You Buy?
Smart-money pick: the 2017 Mazda MX-5 Miata scores 7.9/10 — within striking distance of the 2020's 8.0 — and starts roughly $2,500 lower. If you don't need the newest model year, that's money better spent on a higher trim or kept in your pocket.
Proven long-term reliability — lower unplanned repair costs than class average
Exceptional value for money — high-quality features at a competitive price point
Competent performance that satisfies most everyday driving demands
✗ Where it falls short
Infotainment and tech features feel dated compared to newer rivals in this segment
Brand resale values vary — check current market data before committing
Common Questions — 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata
Is the 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata reliable?
We rate the 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata's reliability 9.0/10 — one of the stronger records in its class.
Is the 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata worth buying?
It scores 8.0/10 overall, ranking #68 of 316 sportss in our database (better than 79% of the segment). A solid choice for most buyers — compare it against the segment leaders before deciding.
How much does the 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata cost?
The 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata starts at $25,506 and ranges up to $33,467 across trims (MSRP when new). At 26 MPG, expect roughly $2,019/year in fuel at 15,000 miles/year.
Which MX-5 Miata years should you avoid?
No standout weak years: across the 11 MX-5 Miata model years we've scored, every year lands within half a point of the best (8.3/10). Pick on price and condition rather than year.
Owner Essentials — Mazda MX-5 Miata
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