2022 Mazda MX-5 Miata — Carivo review Representative photo — may show another model year
Sports

2022 Mazda MX-5 Miata

Independent review & score by Carivo

Price Range $27,245–$36,266
Fuel Economy 28 MPG
Seating 2 passengers
Category Sports
Est. Annual Fuel $1,875/yr

Key Specifications — 2022 Mazda MX-5 Miata

Seating Capacity2 passengers
Body StyleSports
Base Price$27,245–$36,266

Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.

About the 2022 Mazda MX-5 Miata

Our scoring places the 2022 Mazda MX-5 Miata at 8.2/10 overall, which translates to a Recommended rating for this sports. Its strongest dimension is Reliability at 9.1/10, while Technology at 6.3/10 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. At 9.1/10, reliability is one of this sports's best cards — few vehicles in our database score higher on this dimension. The safety score of 7.3/10 is solid mid-pack territory. If advanced driver aids matter to you, compare standard equipment carefully and verify ratings at nhtsa.gov.

Performance is a genuine highlight at 8.6/10. The Mazda MX-5 Miata delivers engaging driving dynamics — responsive handling, meaningful power delivery, and a drivetrain that rewards spirited driving without sacrificing daily usability. Technology scores 6.3/10 — 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 $27,245–$36,266, 28 MPG, seating 2, the Mazda MX-5 Miata sits in the mid-market bracket of the sports segment. Value is where it presses its advantage — 8.8/10, meaning the feature set and quality outrun the asking price. At 4 years old, it's worth checking whether a newer generation or refresh has addressed any weaker dimensions — compare it to the current model year before buying.

Our take: The 2022 Mazda MX-5 Miata is a solid, well-rounded sports that covers the essentials without obvious deal-breakers. The main caveat is technology — worth checking if those dimensions are priorities for you. For most buyers in this segment, it's a safe, dependable choice.

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 2022 Mazda MX-5 Miata ranks #20 of 316 sportss in the Carivo database — better than 94% of the segment. Its 8.2/10 overall score is 0.5 points above the segment average of 7.7/10. Its $27,245 starting price undercuts the segment's median of $46,090 by about 41%.

Rankings are recalculated as new vehicles and scores are added. See the full Sports ranking →

Which MX-5 Miata Year Should You Buy?

Smart-money pick: the 2019 Mazda MX-5 Miata scores 8.1/10 — within striking distance of the 2022's 8.2 — 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.

YearScoreStarting price (MSRP when new)
2025 8.3/10$29,854 Read review →
2024 8.3/10$28,985 Read review →
2023 8.2/10$28,115 Read review →
2022 (this review) 8.2/10$27,245
2021 8.1/10$26,376 Read review →
2020 8.0/10$25,506 Read review →
2019 8.1/10$24,637 Read review →
2018 8.0/10$23,767 Read review →
2017 7.9/10$22,898 Read review →
2016 7.9/10$22,028 Read review →
2015 7.9/10$21,159 Read review →

Pros & Cons — 2022 Mazda MX-5 Miata

✓ What it does well

  • Proven long-term reliability — lower unplanned repair costs than class average
  • Exceptional value for money — high-quality features at a competitive price point
  • Engaging driving dynamics with class-leading power and handling

✗ 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 — 2022 Mazda MX-5 Miata

Is the 2022 Mazda MX-5 Miata reliable?

We rate the 2022 Mazda MX-5 Miata's reliability 9.1/10 — one of the stronger records in its class.

Is the 2022 Mazda MX-5 Miata worth buying?

It scores 8.2/10 overall, ranking #20 of 316 sportss in our database (better than 94% of the segment). A solid choice for most buyers — compare it against the segment leaders before deciding.

How much does the 2022 Mazda MX-5 Miata cost?

The 2022 Mazda MX-5 Miata starts at $27,245 and ranges up to $36,266 across trims (MSRP when new). At 28 MPG, expect roughly $1,875/year in fuel at 15,000 miles/year.

Owner Essentials — Mazda MX-5 Miata

Practical extras owners actually buy. These are Amazon search links — as an Amazon Associate, Carivo earns from qualifying purchases at no cost to you.

All-weather floor mats → Dash cam → OBD2 scanner → Phone mount →

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