2012 MAZDA MX-5 / Miata Roadster Coupe 1.8L 5MT RWD (126 HP)

Vehicle Overview

One of the most loved and appreciated roadsters, the facelifted Mazda MX-5 / Miata was unveiled in 2012.

Besides the more aggressive exterior design and more responsive acceleration, pedestrian safety was enhanced to meet the EU standards.

New for 2012, the MX-5 was offered as a hardtop roadster. The new model was also known as the Roadster Coupe. The new version added the comfort of an electrically-operated hard top roof.

Best known for its sharp steering and great handling, the MX-5 was a real pleasure to drive. While it was not very fast, the Miata was more about the experience of driving with the top down on twisty roads.

Inside, the small sports car was a little cramped, thus average-sized drivers could enjoy the Miata better than tall ones. Otherwise, the gauges were easy to read and all controls were well-placed.

The MX-5 / Miata was offered in three trim levels: Sport, Touring, and premium Grand Touring. In the Sport trim level, the sports car was equipped with 16-inch alloys, air-conditioning, cloth upholstery, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, power windows, and power mirrors.

With the Touring trim level, buyers got bigger 17-inch alloys, fog lights, cruise control, keyless entry, power door locks, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, and steering-wheel-mounted audio controls, while the Grand Touring added leather upholstery, automatic climate control, heated seats, and a premium Bose sound system.

Considering pedestrians’ safety, the Miata featured an active hood system that automatically raised the hood during an impact to prevent or diminish the severity of the injuries. The lower section of the front bumper was redesigned to protect people’s legs.