We’ve been getting a lot of news from Mazda lately. We know the 2016 Mazda MX-5 Miata will cost between $24,915 and $31,570 depending on trim level. We know the Launch Edition will be at dealers late this summer. We know we’ll get 155 hp and 148 lb/ft of torque, and that it will weigh around 2300 pounds. Now we know official EPA fuel ratings.
The new 2.0L SKYACTIV engine, when combined with the six-speed manual transmission, will return 27 mpg in the city, 34 mpg on the highway, and 30 mpg combined. Those opting for the automatic will see a slight uptick at 27/36/30.
This is a huge leap forward from the outgoing 2015 model. The Sport trim line with a manual transmission got a mere 22 mpg in the city and 28 mpg out on the highway, with Club and Grand Touring trim lines faring slightly worse.
Fuel economy has always been a disappoint in the MX-5. With a 12.7 gallon fuel tank, the maximum range in the 2015 is only 355 miles. Real world driving puts it closer to 320 miles per tank, and that’s running it bone dry.
This 25% improvement means a driving range of over 400 miles in the 2016 model, assuming the same 12.7 gallon fuel tank.
You can try your luck at getting a Launch Edition MX-5 by going to www.longlivetheroadster.com. Pre-ordering begins on May 5 at 9am PST (and will probably be finished on May 5 at 9:02am PST…but we’re speculating here.)
Meet Mazda’s Director of Design Derek Jenkins as he talks about this new ND Miata.
Emme is a driver, reviewer, rabble rouser, and Gazelle who can be found online on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and either one of her blogs.
