Is the 2022 Mazda MX-5 Miata the most perfect sports car to buy?

The Miata is Mazda's sports car that competes with the Toyota GR86, Subaru BRZ and Fiat 124 Spider. On the outside you will discover LED lighting, 17in wheels, and gloss black accents. On the inside there is a leather interior, touch screen infotainment, and mechanical e-brake. Under the hood is a 2.0L inline-4 that produces 187HP & is mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox. Is the 2022 Mazda MX-5 Miata the perfect sports car to buy?
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videography: Lori Raiti 🎥

[@Anamnesis]

Owner of 2019 Club with Recaro/Brembo/BBS package here, reporting in after three years of ownership with zero regrets. 😎

[@RaitisRides]

Nicely done!

[@MrWilliamdumais]

Just ordered mine 2023 rf club sport also coming from a focus rs cant wait !

[@ImPlankinq]

@@MrWilliamdumais Not the same comparison, but I came from an FK8 Type R and “downgraded” to an S2000 (Imo not a downgrade, more like a perspective change)

[@MrWilliamdumais]

@@ImPlankinq yeah nowdays hot hatch are to heavy and im looking foward to a purposed build platform insted of a mass production car made fast dosent feel the same … also i had an 1996 miata and i still regrets selling it to this day.

[@AntonioGomez-du3zi]

Same, other than having 2nd gear blow on me on my 2020. Thankfully dealer took care of it, can never stop getting enough of driving my nd.

[@fluffyres6107]

The Miata is just an incredible vehicle! It’s engineered for an incredible driving experience and nothing else. This generation is perfect, but I really love my red ‘99 Miata. Long Live Mazda!

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks for sharing that great ownership input! You are right about your '99 Miata. Don't ever get rid of her!

[@badboy-gn8fu]

Im thinkiing about getting a mx5 but im worried about the small size. Is this car comfortable on long road trips? I'm talking 2 plus hrs drive

[@fluffyres6107]

@@badboy-gn8fu Well, its difficult for me to say. I don’t usually take trips longer than 45mins in the Miata, as I daily drive an Infiniti. Generally though, its pretty comfortable with the exception of a lack in lumbar support. This was most certainly corrected with the current generation, which is miles more comfortable than my ’99 model year. As for practicality, I can confirm its adequate with storage space and the trunk is big enough to run errands to places like the supermarket and still house a spare tire. Anyways, I think you should test drive and find out for yourself it it will work with your lifestyle.

[@franzvanjulio5523]

Thanks, Joe. I ultimately always come back to the Miata being the #1 car I need to get when it’s time for me to buy my fun car. I’ve watched just about every Miata video so I just listened to yours. The sound of the engine as you shifted was pure harmony. I know I at least have to own a Miata for some time before I can try other things. I do find it beautiful. Well, thanks again. Be well.

[@mystictk4149]

Mazda is seriously underrated on so many things and I never meant anyone who didn’t like what Mazda had done. The MX5 is other example of a well perfect sports car.

[@left0verture]

Have to agree - “as close as you can get to a go-cart without driving an actual go-cart”. I tried one out a bunch of years ago and came back with my face hurting from the permanent smile I had the whole time.

[@letitrip5139]

I agree that this design is timeless. In 20 years it will still look like a nice car

[@FoxBee]

I used to have one of these back in 2015. Had one of the first NDs. Loved it so much! These days I have a 2017 Mustang GT. Glad to see you like both the mustang and the miata! I might try to pick up another 2015 ND miata soon, such a fun car to own and a great compliment to the mustang.

[@islandon22]

Had one. Sold many. The truest "sports car" money can buy. The Austin-Healy 3000 of today. You're presenting, exactly my retirement car to myself. Thank you.

[@coejbee]

11:30 “easily put, I would say, 2 walnuts in there” 😂😂😂😂💀

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks for letting me share the laughs with you!

[@conditionone2320]

Man, I miss driving Miatas so much. Anyone who loves driving really owes it to themselves to try one. Watching your "On Throttle" section made me remember how SMALL the car really is -- you can pick your lines through corners and still stay in your own lane.

[@jeffs6090]

This was my first car....back in 95. It was a new 95 Miata M edition. Merlot Mica (a beautiful dark purple), tan seats, and BBS wheels. It was wonderful!!

[@RaitisRides]

Oh wow! That is so very cool!

[@lordflyquad4721]

My first Miata was a 95M also. Such a gorgeous little gem of a car, fell in love with it, have had at least 1 Miata in my driveway at all times since then. Currently have an 06 with full suspension mods, a pure smile machine. 👍

[@jdsk8914]

That Merlot/Tan spec sounds so good. Awesome 👍

[@steensrensen2289]

Thank you joe for an enthusiastic test of mx 5. I have ordered an rf for delivery in august. Really looking forward to it.

[@lordflyquad4721]

Couple of additional points: Joe didn't emphasize it, but it's incredible how really tiny these things are. In person, they just look like a little bullet, and just beg you to get in abd let it rip. Also, Miatas have always been bulletproof. I'm on my 4th and have beaten them all like rented mules; the harder you drive them the more they like it! Really a small miracle that Mazda can still afford to build this car on a dedicated platform that is this sophisticated. Thank you Mazda!

[@rufusjeanbaptiste3243]

Does it come in an automatic

[@siddarthaone7355]

@@rufusjeanbaptiste3243 yes 6 speed automatic available and paddle shifters included!

[@Seattleporch]

@@rufusjeanbaptiste3243 I drive a 2017 ND1 automatic. It has less HPs than the one in the video. I like manuals and HPs. Still! My automatic 2017 Miata is the most brilliant car I've ever driven!

[@icculus]

I can’t believe the ND is already 6 years old. It still feels fresh.

[@maxseminck8060]

Checking this video with a big smile on my face. Thanks alot for the epic review. Cheers

[@davidwolf226]

Joe, so nice to see a review like this of what I consider a most beloved small sports convertible. I've driven several of these Miata's over the years and they've always been a hoot to drive. Also, kudos to Mazda for their continuing evolution of simple yet excellent styling cues.

[@stephclove8924]

I’m so excited to get mines next month! Love the review

[@tasneemhasanat1451]

This guy is the best love your reviews man!!!

[@AKsArtDesignLife]

Wow this vid was just in time, Im ready for it

[@torontoross]

Fantastic. Great video and photography. Thanks

[@Yadmeister]

its joy watching you drive man!

[@josephdonnelly3169]

Great content, surprised you leaned into this so hard!

[@SME5724]

I know I’m getting older when the Miata looks this good to me … mazda didn’t miss with this one I love the headlight placement and overall styling !! I’ll have one someday for the weekends… good review as always to the whole raitis rides team !! Edit: I wish Honda would compete and bring back the s2000 to fight the MX-5 and GR86

[@RaitisRides]

We can't do it without your great support Eric!

[@HansDelbruck53]

Older than, not older "then"!

[@SME5724]

@@HansDelbruck53 I actual meant when so thanks smart ass I fixed it

[@islesclarinet]

Just bought one yesterday! I am in love with it!

[@shawnclark3302]

Very nice! Proud owner of a 17 GT RF use it as my daily

[@subienorris]

I love how the Miata is legitimately fast now. That little thing is ripping, and the engine sounds really good. Who wouldn't love this car?

[@mariowhyte2816]

Miata Is Always The Answer. Awesome review of a truly magnificent car, Joe and Lori!!! I'm gonna go ahead and ask you to send this on that expedited Massachusetts bound transporter please and thank you very much!!!

[@RaitisRides]

I could not have said it any better Mario!

[@m532198]

Liked your updated review of the 2022 Mx-5 I own a 2016 GT manual with a soft top I’ve driven all 4 but have a soft spot for the NB (my golf clubs could fit in the trunk, no kidding). I’ve grown to appreciate the old school antenna. I see it as a visible reminder of the cars long heritage.

[@wisamputrus6196]

Your video makes me want to buy one today!!!!!!!!!! great Job you and Lori........

[@dominickirkwood]

I love it Joe and Lori and keep up the good work 💪 and I love the video lot real true 👍

[@anewbchapter184]

Nice to see new videos still being made of this car. I wasn’t sure if there’d still be any new Miatas out for grabs and as someone who’s hoping to get one in the upcoming months, this sort of gives some hope…even if I’m already not finding any in my area. D:

[@Bmontepeque11]

I'm a man of 86 ❤️, But I have lots of respect and appreciation for the MX-5, like it isn't just the closest rival to the 86 that I love so much, it is better than it. And I really value that! This is what cars are all about! 🔥

[@tomdrummy4984]

Love the RF hardtop version of this ! 🥰. Wow,that engine looks good in that.

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks Tom for letting me bring it to you!

[@karthikvishnu040]

Great job as usual Joe and Lori. 🙂

[@melprophet1936]

Excellent video, as always! I really love this car. Hoping to get an RF next year.

[@RaitisRides]

Sounds like a plan Mel!

[@wilfredo-teyrosalesfotos]

This car will always have a spot for those who love small sports car. Mazda understands that mission and continues to deliver 🤜🏾🤛🏻

[@chabbysrides]

The quintessential sports car. Great review. Love it!

[@mattboumansour]

Just noticed the horn blasting on one of the cars you passed flying around one of the bends. Made me laugh! Watched this a few times Joe. Love the reviews you and your wife do!

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks Matt! It must have been a fan! LOL

[@LS1007]

I’d go club sport if I was MX 5 shopping but the GR 86 is sooo good looking. Nice review Joe and great job Lori! Thanks guys. 👍🏻👍🏻🇺🇸

[@RaitisRides]

You have great taste Larry! Thanks for being so supportive!

[@brentengstrom5406]

Nice Joe, keep it up!

[@philliprumans753]

I have a 21 MX5 RF and I love the tight turning circle. Is so easy to park

[@kusanag0]

I love the smile in your face while you drive this car; Mazda knows how to please the real driver in all of us. :)

[@YankMil1]

Still have my 2011 NC MX~5 Miata with flared fenders to fit oversized tires. I’m a big guy 6’2” 265lbs so won’t change since that’s the biggest Miata interior wise and it’s heavier. Love it still.

[@Aschoolbusandsimulatorfan2219]

Wow!! This is the only one small sportscar from Mazda will be a better buy to several people including myself. Overall, fantastic job and review / POV test drive Joe.

[@RaitisRides]

I am glad that you enjoyed the on throttle experience!

[@allanzylbert1306]

Have a 2017 Mazda Miata RF and it's been 5 years of fun fun fun. Best sports car for the money

[@JoelOman1980]

I've got one on order, in the soul red crystal color which I recon is the only option to get the MX-5 in. ;) It's a beautiful piece of machinery and drives like a dream. Can't wait for Mazda to call me and confirm the delivery! Thanks for this comprehensive look, kudos! Have a nice weekend!

[@williamburkey4833]

The Grand Touring trim also comes with Bilstein dampers.

[@yzth3ory630]

I used to clown the MX5 until I actually drove the 22 RF! That said, it’s not for me but damn if it isn’t fun to drive. I think I prefer the soft top over the hardtop but the Club would be a must. Love the analog gauges, hate touchscreens. A bit more zoom-zoom wouldn’t hurt either but I like it 🤣🤣

[@joepark2256]

I enjoy ur reviews!!! I recently purchased ‘22 MY MX5 RF and enjoy every bit of it. Although it’s so different in many ways from my ‘19 Raptor, I think It’s the purest driving machine…for the price point!!!

[@vicentemendez80]

A car that is always happy to see you!

[@mattmekhaeil]

You dont need gobs of horsepower to have a fun machine. The miata is a perfect to toss around and handles so well. Get one with a manual you got a perfect package

[@RaitisRides]

You hit the nail on the head on the head Matt!

[@P4SDetails]

I think this is one of my long term dream cars. I want one for Sunday drives sooo bad.

[@kineticU]

Love my Miata ND. Lucky to have the BRZ too. Drop top and a hard top. Each with its own character. Driving bliss

[@zackdl]

Currently have a 94 Miata and i absolutely love it. Would love to drive one of these someday

[@RaitisRides]

That is so wonderful Zack!

[@christaylor8022]

I'm a current Mazda owner with a CX-5. But I've always wanted a Miata. Thanks Joe and Lori, I gotta get myself 1 of these!

[@RaitisRides]

You would love it for sure Chris! You are so very welcome!

[@lordflyquad4721]

Go for it! I have a 22 Carbon Edition CX5 and an 06 MX5. You will NEVER regret buying a Miata.

[@ElBadu]

@@lordflyquad4721 agree. I have a 2020 Cx5 Reserve and a 2000 Miata. Great pair

[@michaeltortora453]

Awesome presentation. Nice short.

[@caryandre5836]

i love your reviews and hI Lori . The little comments you include are the best. "You can put your nuts in the console" lol.

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks Cary for letting me share the cars and the laughs with you!

[@kensturrock9203]

Great review. Note, though, the 2022 GT with a manual transmission has the same suspension as the Club - both use Bilstein dampeners. Thanks for the videos.

[@audriusbaranauskas6227]

That's some nice driving you did there!! It's like watching a video game. And you are right about the drivers height - I'm 6'2 and in this gen miata it's the limit for me, especially for leg room (P.S. I don't own one just drove one)

[@Seattleporch]

I'm also 6'2" and I own one. It's close to the limit of acceptable but I love it!

[@Trigger-xw9gq]

Quote: “This is as close to driving a go-kart on the street, it’s the way the car communicates with you, how it dances with you. It really brings back that pure feeling of driving; it just reminds you of being young again, riding your bike poppin’ wheelies and stuff.” That pretty much defines it, and is why I’m always looking for an excuse to go drive it. No other car quite comes close. 20 more horsepower would be welcome, but thank you Mazda for making this car.

[@michaelselah6828]

My 2022 Club is on the boat and on its way to Clermont Florida. 45 days and counting… CAN NOT WAIT !

[@haeuk]

Keep in mind tht from ND2 2019~, you have Bilstein damper on NOT ONLY Club trim but also Grand Touring MT as well as torque sensing LSD.

[@ericmings]

Also the Miata is an incredible value still mid 30k for a new Miata which is what I paid for mine back in 2016

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks for sharing your ownership experience Eric!

[@kavalere]

Just bought same exact model color year. Incredible vehicle. You're right Raiti....makes you feel young again.

[@RaitisRides]

That is so wonderful Milton.

[@Nigel__]

You’re kicking ass, Joe. Definitely going to be at the 1 million subscriber mark soon.

[@smslevy]

Great video. Is the Club really that different from the GT? I love the black wheels, but some of the additions on the GT are good value (like the headlights)

[@jeanpierre6484]

love this review! miata is always the answer

[@extraterrestrial6614]

Best car ive ever driven. I absolutely love my ND!

[@shawnbaker8360]

I’ve Always Loved The Miata Ever Since Day 1

[@RaitisRides]

I feel the same way Shawn.

[@HansDelbruck53]

The Miata has been the closest thing to sports car perfection for decades now. That makes it the most perfect to buy, rent, lease, borrow or steal.

[@devlogerio]

Legend never dies, this is the kind of business I go for

[@Darkvirgo88xx]

I have always wanted a Miata its just something about it. I like that it's RWD also.

[@socalmotorx]

The Grand Touring comes with Bilstein shocks also. Now GT comes with all of the Club add ons like the engine strut bars, LSD and Bilstein shocks. You just can’t add the Brembo, BBS and Recaro package

[@JoseMedina-gf4cu]

Do you feel any difference with the kinetic posture control for this model year?

[@marelollll]

hey do you think this engine would be able to handle boost well? or any engine performance mods… looking to buy one of these

[@blairbrown4812]

The great thing about the Miata is that it's one of the best platforms for having that 500 hp all-aluminum V8 cake and eating it too. In fact,I suspect that there's going to be a Dream Giveaway Garage-modded Miata video in your not-too-distant future.

[@RaitisRides]

Man you are good!

[@michaelmancini5773]

Great review, would love it if you had speed and rpm in upper right corner as you road test roadsters like this , I was craving to know you’re speed on this run.

[@RandomParrot]

I had the RX7 back in my teens, and missnit so bad. The Miata seems like the sports car a 50 year old me, needs.

[@johndonaldson5126]

After owning a GT RF for a month the things I would like are: 1) A digital MPH readout. It could fit in the speedometer in the lower right corner. 2) A space for my wallet and smart phone. 3) Lumbar support. I have to use a lumbar cushion or my back will be sore for a couple of days. 4) Factory supplied remote keyless entry button to put the top up/down without having to get into the car. 5) A third detent on the driver's door. The first stop is useless because I can't get into or out of the car with that door setting. The last stop is so wide there is increased danger of the door hitting something like another parked car or other obstructions. A third door stop between the other two would solve the problem.

[@wacktastic1]

I'm about to replace my Mazda 2016 MX 6 and i was thinking of getting another Mazda, they always treated me well. Is a Miata a good car for an everyday drive?

[@tomokokishi3066]

Joe's 6th (?) ND Miata review, better than ever.

[@KeithM-ds1cf]

I noticed at 19:57 the white car laid down on their horn. Either they were being a smart a$$........or they were just incredibly jealous that they didnt have that hot white Mx-5! LOL 😏 I drove a Club trim in '21 and even though it was a TINY car, I could not remove the smile on my face the whole test drive. You were spot on when you mentioned that it was as close to a go-kart that you could get for the street. After my test drive, thats exactly what I told my wife, that it was like a really fun go-kart! Such a fun car!

[@RaitisRides]

Good ears! I’m so glad you had the same experience as me!

[@GioRiosTV]

With gas prices skyrocketing it’s nice owning a 2 seat only vehicle where nobody even thinks about using you to go around places with groups of people

[@StratosphereGamingYT]

Such a cool ride. I’m a suburb fanboy though so I almost still might go BRZ. Convertible is tempting though 🤔

[@tylera5010]

This has to be your best review.

[@susanwyatt7999]

Love the MX5.True sports car.

[@HisMajesty99]

You gotta do one for the sport trim again too, Joe!

[@RaitisRides]

You got it man!

[@mohamdsherif7501]

Hello Joe, I have been following you from Egypt for a long time, but this is the first comment I write to you. You are very excellent in cars reviews and You have a special style . I hope to see a review of Porsche Cayenne and Porsche Macan. I love you Joe. Have a nice day .

[@RaitisRides]

Thank you for being so supportive! i will get those Porsches together for you!

[@mohamdsherif7501]

@@RaitisRides Thank you Joe, in two years I will be moving to live in United States. thank you again Joe .

[@friscodog]

I had a Miata back in the late 2000s. First-gen. Jolly Rancher red. Hands down, the best car I've ever had. We've moving back to the States, soon. First, we have to have a sedan or other more practical car. But give it another year, and Daddy's getting.a brand new Miata!

[@j.r9754]

Love seeing him drive stick hahaha 🫣I’m like hopefully there’s no cops. I’d let him rip though all my cars gears 😂😂😂

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks man for saying that! Okay m all about saving the manuals.

[@markp3594]

I’ve had x3 Mx5’s over the years - great cars! After years (old) of soft tops I’d really like a Club RF. My “First World” problem is I moved up to a 04’ 996 911 soft top - hard to make the case for MX5 from here.

[@imkriswithak1135]

I watched the whole thing to see if you’d make a joke with headroom with the top down 😂 when i can afford it this will be on my list.

[@IggyWildcat]

I hope they keep this current generation for one more year at least. It’s nearly perfect. Maybe the infotainment centre can be updated. Fingers crossed for a ‘23 in my future. 😀 Also, you didn’t mention the new KPC for ‘22, and I think there is more storage behind the seats. 👍

[@tomc8854]

Great video ❗️Love my 19 zero option sport. I like basic cars , the less toys the better! My sticker was 8g less and I got it for 24g back when you could still bargain. Best bang for the buck. The only place it says Miata is the sticker. I traded an FR-S in for it and one of the biggest pluses is I don’t have every kid in a civic with a fart can trying to race me anymore 😁

[@stevenr1354]

Lol!!

[@jdsk8914]

The cool thing is the stock '19 Miata has better performance than the previous gen FR-S. Bonus!

[@tmo2798]

@@jdsk8914 And current.

[@Marc-ty5sz]

I see that you took every chance that you can to review the miata. You must love that car :)

[@RaitisRides]

I really do!

[@BinaryReplicant]

I’d be all over the Miata instead of the other two! Timeless and beautiful.

[@dwbiggly6907]

Thanks for the engine history. I’m thinking of getting one. My wife refuses to tour on my motorcycle so maybe this is the alternative. I live on an island so I appreciate the aluminum body parts.

[@danielboyd9380]

what about a Mustang compared to a Miata..Quite different but I was interested to know if you had a preference? I actually love the corvette C7... I had a BMW Z4 and really miss it but I was afraid of getting to the repair shop with it? It was a little more long legged and needed to be wound up some to start having fun.

[@ReygansRides]

Fun fact: The center AC vent is shaped like the tail light.

[@bradly2056]

Gorgeous little sports car

[@_-.Victoria.-_]

I had the mark 4 after getting rid of my mark 1. I kept the mark 4 a week then sent it back. It was a totally disconnected experience after owning the mark 1 for a few years (where you feel totally connected to the road and part of the car), plus the steering compared the mark 1 was numb. Also much more squashed for the passenger. I'm now back in a mark 1,which is WAY more fun to drive IMO!

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks Victoria for sharing your personal experience!