Few cars capture the essence of driving as purely as the Mazda MX-5. Since its debut in 1989, the MX-5 (also known as the Miata globally) has embodied the philosophy of lightweight, affordable, rear-wheel-drive fun. Fast-forward to 2025, and Mazda has ensured that the MX-5 remains one of the most engaging sports cars on the market—without losing sight of its roots.
For Australians, where winding coastal roads, scenic highways, and sunny weekend getaways are part of the lifestyle, the MX-5 fits right in. It isn’t about sheer horsepower or lap times—it’s about connection, simplicity, and enjoying every kilometre behind the wheel.
The 2025 model brings a refreshed look, improved technology, and a renewed commitment to being one of the most accessible yet thrilling sports cars in the world.
Exterior Design: Timeless Roadster, Modern Tweaks
The MX-5 has always had a sleek and compact profile, and in 2025, Mazda hasn’t messed with the winning formula. Instead, they’ve sharpened the details to keep it feeling fresh.
Proportions: The classic long bonnet, short rear deck, and low-slung stance remain intact. It’s unmistakably MX-5, maintaining the essence of a true roadster.
Lighting: Slimmer LED headlights and taillights now give it a more aggressive, modern edge while improving visibility at night.
Convertible Choices: Buyers can choose between the soft-top roadster and the RF (Retractable Fastback) with its coupe-like folding roof. Both add character while offering different flavours of open-top motoring.
Wheels & Accents: New alloy designs and subtle trim updates give a fresh spin without overcomplicating the design.
The MX-5 still stands out in traffic—not because it shouts, but because it whispers sophistication with its simple, timeless form.
Interior: Minimalist Yet Modern
Inside, the MX-5 continues with its driver-first cockpit, prioritising ergonomics and driving focus over unnecessary flash.
Seating: Low-slung, supportive bucket seats hug the driver, with just enough comfort for long Sunday drives. In 2025, Mazda has added better bolstering and improved seat cushioning for more comfort without sacrificing support.
Technology: A new 8.8-inch infotainment screen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto comes standard. The interface has been refined for quicker responses, and voice control now feels smoother.
Materials: Higher trims get leather upholstery, contrast stitching, and aluminium accents. Even base models feel well-built, with minimal rattles and a driver-focused atmosphere.
Practicality: Storage space remains limited—this isn’t a car for family road trips. The boot can manage a couple of overnight bags, but that’s part of the MX-5’s charm: it makes you travel light.
Engine & Performance: The Joy of Naturally Aspirated Power
Where most modern sports cars chase turbocharging and hybridisation, the MX-5 sticks to its guns: a naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine that loves to rev.
Engine Options (Australia, 2025):
2.0L SkyActiv-G Inline-4: 135kW of power and 205Nm of torque.
Rev-happy and linear, it thrives at higher revs, rewarding enthusiastic driving.
Transmission Choices:
6-speed manual: The gold standard—light, precise, and one of the best shifters in the industry.
6-speed automatic: Available, but enthusiasts almost always go manual.
Rear-Wheel Drive Balance: Perfect 50:50 weight distribution remains the MX-5’s defining trait. The car feels nimble, light on its feet, and alive in your hands.
Performance Stats:
0–100km/h in around 6.5 seconds (manual)
Top speed around 220km/h
The MX-5 isn’t about brute force—it’s about responsiveness and feedback. Every input—steering, throttle, brake—feels like an extension of the driver.
Handling: Where the MX-5 Truly Shines
Mazda engineers often talk about “Jinba Ittai”—the harmony between horse and rider. The MX-5 lives and breathes this philosophy.
Steering: Direct, perfectly weighted, with road feedback that rivals cars costing twice as much.
Suspension: Double wishbones up front and multi-link rear suspension deliver balance. Updated dampers for 2025 improve ride comfort while preserving agility.
Lightweight Magic: At just over 1,100kg, the MX-5 remains one of the lightest sports cars available, which makes it feel quicker and sharper than the numbers suggest.
Driving Modes: The MX-5 doesn’t overcomplicate things with endless drive modes. You get a car tuned for fun out of the box.
On a twisting road, the MX-5 is a revelation. It rewards smooth driving and punishes sloppy inputs—not with intimidation, but with honesty.
Everyday Use: Can You Daily Drive an MX-5?
This is where buyers need to be honest with themselves. The MX-5 is not a family car, nor is it designed for hauling gear. But as a daily commuter for one or two, it’s surprisingly livable.
Ride Quality: Firm but not punishing. 2025 updates make it more comfortable over Aussie backroads.
Fuel Economy: Around 7.0L/100km, impressive for a petrol sports car.
Noise Levels: With the roof up, it’s decently quiet, though road noise is noticeable compared to bigger cars.
Roof Mechanism: The soft-top folds manually in seconds, while the RF has an electric mechanism—both easy to operate.
If you value fun over outright practicality, the MX-5 works as a daily. But if you regularly need space or rear seats, you’ll want something else in the garage too.
Technology & Features
Mazda has been careful to modernise the MX-5 without diluting its purity.
Infotainment: Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto, USB-C ports, improved audio.
Driver Assistance: Blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control (on higher trims).
Safety Features: Six airbags, reinforced chassis, stability control, autonomous emergency braking.
Convenience: Keyless entry, push-button start, climate control, heated seats available.
The MX-5 balances old-school charm with the essential tech modern drivers expect.
Safety & Ratings
While sports cars aren’t typically known for top safety scores, Mazda has ensured the MX-5 is competitive.
Crash Protection: Reinforced side structures, rollover protection with strengthened windscreen frame, and multiple airbags.
Driver Aids: Mazda’s i-Activsense suite (on select trims) adds adaptive cruise, traffic sign recognition, and lane-keeping support.
ANCAP Safety: As of 2025, the MX-5 holds a 5-star ANCAP rating in most trims.
Variants & Pricing in Australia (2025)
The MX-5 remains one of the most affordable sports cars in Australia, undercutting rivals significantly.
MX-5 Roadster (Soft Top, Manual): From ~$46,000 AUD
MX-5 RF (Retractable Fastback, Manual): From ~$52,000 AUD
Automatic Transmission Option: +$2,500 AUD approx.
GT Models: Add leather trim, Bose premium audio, advanced safety tech, from ~$56,000 AUD
This pricing makes it an accessible entry into the world of proper sports cars.
Competitors: How the MX-5 Stacks Up
In 2025, the MX-5 still stands almost alone in its niche. Few cars offer the same recipe.
Toyota GR86 / Subaru BRZ: Bigger, more powerful, with rear seats. Great fun, but heavier and less “pure” in feel.
Mini Cooper Convertible: Stylish, fun, but front-wheel drive and less involving.
BMW Z4 / Toyota Supra: Faster and more luxurious, but far more expensive.
For under $60k, nothing really matches the MX-5’s combination of agility, open-top fun, and affordability.
Ownership & Running Costs
Warranty: 5 years/unlimited km (Mazda Australia standard).
Service Intervals: 12 months/10,000km, with capped-price servicing.
Insurance: Sports car premiums apply, but lower than high-power rivals.
Resale Value: MX-5s historically hold value well, thanks to enthusiast demand.
Why Aussies Love the MX-5
Australians have always had a soft spot for convertibles and sports cars, and the MX-5 has become a cult classic here. From weekend coastal runs to track days, the MX-5 is celebrated for being:
Accessible in price and performance.
Easy to own, with Japanese reliability.
A car that prioritises fun over everything else.
Conclusion: The Spirit of Driving, Alive in 2025
The 2025 Mazda MX-5 isn’t just a car—it’s an experience. At a time when cars are getting heavier, more digital, and often disconnected from the driver, the MX-5 remains a rare gem.
It’s proof that less can be more—less weight, less complication, less distraction. And in return, it offers more fun, more connection, and more smiles per kilometre than almost anything else on the road.
For Australians who want an affordable sports convertible that delivers joy every time they turn the key, the MX-5 continues to be the benchmark.
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