The Good
The 2016 MX-5 Miata offers exhilarating performance thanks to its lightweight design and responsive engine. It's generally considered reliable and offers decent fuel efficiency. Its attractive design and open-top experience appeal to emotional buyers, while its affordability and ease of maintenance attract practical buyers. While not focused on comfort, it is acceptable for many.
The Bad
The 2016 MX-5 Miata's weaknesses include limited cargo space and a snug cabin, which may not suit taller drivers. Some owners have reported issues with the infotainment system. Also, be aware of potential soft-top wear and tear, especially in harsh climates. Rust can be a concern in areas with road salt. Inspect for accident damage.
2016 Mazda MX-5 Miata: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: 2.0-liter inline-4 cylinder
- Horsepower: 155 hp @ 6,000 rpm
- Fuel Economy:
- Manual: 27 mpg city / 34 mpg highway
- Automatic: 27 mpg city / 36 mpg highway
- 0-60 Times: Approximately 6.0-6.3 seconds (depending on transmission)
- Towing Capacity: Not applicable (Not designed for towing)
- Trim-Level Features:
- Sport: Includes a 6-speed manual transmission (optional 6-speed automatic), 16-inch alloy wheels, cloth seats, a basic infotainment system, and keyless entry.
- Club: Adds a sport-tuned suspension, limited-slip differential (manual transmission only), Bilstein dampers, a rear spoiler, a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Mazda Connect, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert.
- Grand Touring: Includes leather seats, automatic climate control, heated seats, a premium Bose audio system, navigation, adaptive front lighting system, and automatic headlights.
- Optional Packages: Packages like the Brembo/BBS package (available on the Club trim) add Brembo brakes and lightweight BBS wheels for enhanced performance.
2016 Mazda MX-5 Miata Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2016 |
| Make | Mazda |
| Model | MX-5 Miata |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | - |
| Category | - |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | - |
| Manufacturing City | - |
Dimensions
| Doors | - |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | - |
| Engine Size | - |
| Engine Cylinders | - |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | - |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | - |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
Check
Check
Check
Check
Listings
Recalls
Check
Analysis
What Problems Does the 2016 Mazda MX-5 Miata Have?
Recalls for the 2016 MX-5 Miata have been issued for issues such as potential fuel tank cracking. Always check the NHTSA website for the latest recall information and ensure any applicable recalls have been addressed.
Long-term reliability is generally good, but regular maintenance is essential. Check for rust, especially underneath the vehicle and around the wheel wells, particularly in areas where salt is used on roads during winter. The ND generation (2016 onwards) has addressed some of the rust concerns seen in earlier Miatas, but it's still a point to inspect. Oil consumption has been reported on some cars, so consistent monitoring of oil levels is recommended. Overall, the 2016 MX-5 Miata holds up well with proper care, but addressing potential issues promptly is key to long-term ownership satisfaction.
How long will the 2016 Mazda MX-5 Miata last?
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Driver-assistance features include blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert on the Club and Grand Touring trims. These features enhance safety by alerting the driver to potential hazards.
Safety features include standard airbags, anti-lock brakes, and stability control. Optional safety features, depending on the trim, may include adaptive front lighting and lane departure warning (though not standard).
Crash-test ratings for the 2016 MX-5 Miata from the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) are generally good. It received good ratings in several crashworthiness categories. Check the IIHS and NHTSA websites for specific test results. While not packed with advanced tech like newer cars, the 2016 MX-5 Miata offers a balanced set of features for safety and entertainment, especially in higher trims.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2016 Mazda MX-5 Miata Prices and Market Value
2016 Mazda MX-5 Miata Cost of Ownership
2016 Mazda MX-5 Miata Fuel Efficiency
2016 Mazda MX-5 Miata Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2016 Mazda MX-5 Miata Compare to Other Vehicle?
Compared to used BMW Z4s or Porsche Boxsters, the Miata is significantly more affordable both to purchase and maintain. While the Z4 and Boxster offer more power and luxury, they come with higher repair costs and insurance rates.
A similar alternative in terms of driving fun and affordability is a used Honda S2000, though it's an older model and may require more maintenance. If the budget allows and more performance is desired, a used Porsche Boxster could be considered, but be prepared for higher ownership costs. Overall, the 2016 MX-5 Miata strikes a good balance of performance, reliability, and affordability, making it a top choice in its class.
Ranks #435 Sedan
| 1 | 2023 Toyota Camry | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda Accord | (0.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Lexus ES | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2024 Subaru Legacy | (5.0★) |
| 5 | 2022 Mazda MX-30 | (5.0★) |
| 6 | 2024 BMW M3 | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Ford Mustang | (5.0★) |
| 8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2023 Audi A3 | (0.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Chevrolet Camaro | (5.0★) |
| 11 | 2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2023 Nissan Altima | (4.0★) |
| 435 | 2016 Mazda MX-5 Miata | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2016 Mazda MX-5 Miata a Good Vehicle?
John on August 11, 2022
I love it!We have owned the car for a month and have put on 3,000 miles. Its a lot of fun to drive but the passenger side is really lacking in leg room and the center console controls are difficult to get to. Its a real head turner!
sisk on May 7, 2021
Super Fun to DrivePuts a smile on my face every time I drive it. The only thing I would change is put the glove box and CD player in a better reachable spot. They are located between the seats and behind the driver so you can’t reach them from the drivers seat.
Dancing Dave on April 22, 2021
I would recommend this car to anybodyI was reaar-end3ed in a hit and run - totaled the car. However, the car saved my life, turned off the engine and dialed 911 before I was even able to know if I was hurt. Very impressive for such a small car.
Jen with the new Miata! 😠on March 16, 2021
Love new MiataGreat little toy to enjoy with top down! Fun to drive, limited space, but it's a 2 seater so not for everyone, but we love it!
Ray321 on January 11, 2021
Can't beat this convertiblePut the top down in this car and it's an experience like no other. It's a quick l little car with lots of aftermarket options if that something you're into. It is just a down right fun car to drive.
Braden on September 26, 2020
Quick enoughThe Miata obviously isn’t “fastâ€. It is quick and really fun going around the corners, but won’t win a drag race by any means. Super fun as a daily, and gets great gas mileage. I have had the car for 2 days now, so I have been driving very heavy footed. Considering that, I’m still averaging 32 mpg with in town and hard fast driving. (First 150 miles).
MX5Martin on May 28, 2020
The MX-5 Grand Touring is a fun car to driveThis car appealed to me. I liked the color, the features (heated seats, bluetooth, cruise control, touch screen with navigation and a very good sound system). The car has a rear camera and blind spot warning lights in the mirror. It also has leather seats and although the soft top convertible is not what I would prefer I might get used to it. The 6-gear manual transmission was exactly what I was looking for and the car was so much fun to handle. It put a smile on my face. If, like me, you are looking at a power top you should know it's been redesigned in the ND series MX-5. I personally think Mazda has ruined it and I am now looking for an NC MX-5 which has the first generation power-retractable hard top which stows away completely and gives you the full convertible experience. Mazda, bring back the original retractable roof experience.
Jeff on January 29, 2020
Great summer car!Fun car to drive with the top down. Love the six speed manual transmission. Get lots of comments about the car, especially the soul red color.
MiataLover on December 19, 2019
Almost as great as the 97I owned a 97 Miata and I loved that thing to death. I knew if I was going to buy a new car it would have to be a miata also. The 2016 has significantly less room in the interior. I'm 5'3" so I fit perfectly. I have a 6'5" friend who rides shot gun and he fit better in the old one, not so much in this one. The sound system is amazing. It drives like a miata should and has quite the get up and go.
60 years toy on November 26, 2019
My dream carI've have always loved this car and got an opportunity to buy it at Jim Ellis Mazda - Marietta for an excellent price. I'm enjoying it so much and so happy I purchased it! If you're thinking about buying a dream car, do it. If its a Miata, do it now, you won't regret it.
Eugene S
Eugene is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. As a writer at VINCheck.info, he brings deep industry insight and a passion for cars, helping readers make smart, informed decisions. Eugene has written hundreds of used car reviews and is known for breaking down complex automotive topics into clear, actionable advice. Over the years, he has driven and worked on a wide range of vehicles—starting with tuning street cars in his early days and eventually focusing on performance upgrades and reliability improvements. Today, he specializes in evaluating used vehicles through the lens of real-world ownership and enthusiast needs. A longtime fan of Porsche, Eugene especially appreciates vehicles that blend durability with driving enjoyment.