Uploaded May 2026 | Updated September 2026, 3 weeks ago

---

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 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 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
consumerreports.org/cars/mazda/mx-5-miata/2026/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Who Makes the Most Reliable New Cars?
consumerreports.org/cars/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/who-makes-the-most-reliable-cars-a7824554938/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Mazda MX-5 Miata Generations
consumerreports.org/cars/mazda/mx-5-miata/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Find the Best Sports Cars & Convertible
consumerreports.org/cars/sports-cars/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT