Is the Miata a Good Road Trip Car?

By Alice Nichols

If you’re a fan of driving and you’re planning a road trip, you might be wondering whether the Mazda MX-5 Miata is a good car for the job. The Miata, known for its nimble handling and sporty design, has long been a favorite among driving enthusiasts.

But can it hold up on long stretches of highway or winding mountain roads? Let’s take a closer look.

Comfort and Space

The Miata is a small car, so it’s important to consider how comfortable you’ll be during extended periods behind the wheel. The seats in the Miata are supportive and comfortable for shorter drives, but they may not provide enough cushioning for longer trips. Additionally, the interior is quite cramped, so taller drivers may find themselves feeling cramped after several hours of driving.

Storage Space

Storage space is another consideration when it comes to road trips. The Miata has limited trunk space compared to larger cars or SUVs, so packing efficiently is key. You can fit one large suitcase and a few smaller bags in the trunk with some careful packing, but don’t expect to bring everything but the kitchen sink.

Driving Experience

When it comes to driving dynamics, the Miata shines. Its lightweight chassis and responsive steering make it an absolute joy to drive on winding roads. However, these same features can become fatiguing on long stretches of highway where you’ll be constantly making small adjustments to keep the car centered in its lane.

Fuel Efficiency

One advantage of the Miata as a road trip car is its fuel efficiency. With an EPA estimated 26 mpg city/35 mpg highway with manual transmission (25/34 with automatic), you’ll be able to cover plenty of ground without spending too much money on gas.

Conclusion

So, is the Miata a good road trip car? It really depends on what you’re looking for.

If you’re looking for a comfortable, spacious car that can hold all your gear, the Miata is probably not the best choice. However, if you’re looking for a fun-to-drive car that will make any road feel like a racetrack, the Miata is hard to beat. Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide what matters most on your road trip.