Mazda MX-5 (Miata) Continues To Sell Well

Although most cars lose popularity as they approach the end of their life cycle, the legendary Mazda MX-5 (Miata) defies that rule. Sales figures show that this beloved roadster is not only not losing its breath but also continues to attract buyers, despite the current generation being on the market for a decade.

The reason is clear—the MX-5 has almost no direct competition, although some buyers compare it to the Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR86.

Mazda is proud to announce that demand for the Miata grew by a significant 7.7 percent last year, with a total of 8,727 units sold in the United States. In comparison, the Subaru BRZ found 2,882 customers in the same period, while the Toyota GR86 was the most successful of the trio with 9,940 vehicles delivered.

What makes these figures particularly impressive is the fact that the fourth-generation Miata (ND) was introduced back in 2015. The stable demand after ten years is proof of this model’s unique position in the shrinking sports car market.

Looking back, the most successful year for the ND generation was 2017, when 11,294 units were sold. Although last year’s result did not reach that peak, it is still extremely solid considering the advanced age of the vehicle. Interestingly, despite the increase in MX-5 sales, Mazda’s total US sales fell 3.3 percent to 410,346 vehicles.

Mazda isn’t revealing exactly when the successor will arrive, but the refreshed ND3 model for 2024 suggests the current generation will be around for a few more years. The Japanese automaker has already confirmed that the MX-5 story continues, regardless of whether the rumored rotary-engined sports car ever comes to fruition.

According to official announcements, the next generation could be even lighter than the current one. Masashi Nakayama, chief director of the Design Department, stated about a year ago that the goal is to keep the weight under 1,000 kilograms. Mazda also hinted that the Miata could receive a new, larger 2.5-litre Skyactiv-Z engine paired with a manual transmission.

The company’s Chief Technical Officer, Ryuichi Umeshita, reassured enthusiasts by confirming that the new engine will not feature a turbocharger. Since the Skyactiv-Z engine isn’t expected before the end of 2027, we probably won’t see the new roadster until 2028.

• Also See: The Mazda CX-5 Wins Euro NCAP 5 Star Rating