2026 Mazda Miata Is Still the Answer

On this episode we share our impressions of the 2026 Mazda Miata and take a joyride through Miata history. We explain why the 2026 model remains one of the purest sports cars you can buy, and weigh its sublime manual transmission, lightweight feel, reliability, and real-world compromises. Plus, we answer an audience question about Tesla Full Self-Driving—and whether human-driven Miatas are really at risk of disappearing.   Join CR at https://CR.org/joinviaYT to access our comprehensive ratings for items you use every day. CR is a mission-driven, independent, nonprofit organization.     SHOW NOTES ----------------------------------- 00:00 Intro00:15 2026 Mazda Miata: Why We're Revisiting It 02:54 History of the Miata 05:29 Why "Miata Is Always the Answer" 08:57 What Makes the Miata So Fun to Drive 17:01 Miata Reliability, Ownership, and Common Issues 19:56 Miata Stays Lightweight 24:49 The Downsides 31:30 Our Favorite Miata Generations 34:38 Audience Question: Self-Driving Cars vs. Human Drivers   ----------------------------------  Test Results: Mazda Miata https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/mazda/mx-5-miata/2026/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Who Makes the Most Reliable New Cars? https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/who-makes-the-most-reliable-cars-a7824554938/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Mazda MX-5 Miata Generations https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/mazda/mx-5-miata/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Find the Best Sports Cars & Convertible https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/sports-cars/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT