If you know me well, you’ll know I’m quite the car enthusiast. Over the years I’ve driven it all, but my favorites are always Japanese and always coupes. That’s why I jumped at the opportunity to test drive the 2018 Mazda MX-5 Miata Club for a week. I drove it down to Carmel and up and down the hills of San Francisco. Spoiler alert: it was amazing.
First and foremost, I always love a small car. The MX-5 being a compact little convertible was a breeze to park in. It had incredible handling as well, being able to turn on a dime. Miatas are known for being lightweight, and the car feels truly nimble. My boyfriend drives an older Japanese convertible roadster from another automaker, and instantly upon getting in the Miata we could tell the visibility was much better. Buttons, controls, and displays were all in logical places which made the car so natural and familiar to drive.
I only drive manual transmission cars, and this 6-speed manual is a true treat. The Club trim model is adorned with BBS wheels & Brembo brakes, making the 17 Mile Drive in Pebble Beach extra fun. Living in California, nothing beats a weekend drive in a convertible. The MX-5 Miata drove like a dream.
Finally, Mazda doesn’t cut short on creature comforts when designing a convertible roadster. Another Club trim upgrade was Recaro sport seats, which were also heated! Even the standard model has heated seats, but if you’re getting a sports car, that Recaro upgrade suits the car so well. Keyless entry, push start ignition, touch screen display, among many other things come standard.
I think what I loved most about this car is that it’s truly in a category of its own. Really there are no other Japanese car manufacturers making a sports car at the same price point at the MX-5 Miata Club. Ask any Miata owner you know and you can hear how passionate they are about these cars.
Have you driven a Mazda before? I would love to hear your thoughts, and if you’ve ever been curious about the MX-5 Miata! I’ll be honest, I didn’t want to give the car back after driving it for a week. I could truly see it fitting into my city lifestyle.
Kristen Jones says
Oh how fun!! Such a perfect ride to drive through California! The views are gorgeous, too!
Joely Smith says
The Mazda Miata is such a fun car! My daughter had an older model when she was younger. We had such fun in that! She needed a larger car so we had to sell it but so many days we both wish we still had it!
Adriana Lopez says
wow that Mazda is a super cool ride! Love a nice sporty car that is accessible in my budget I guess I have found it! I have always wanted a Miata. Lovely pictures of the Bay area too congrats!
Laurie says
The Miata is absolutely stunning! Didn’t they stop making Miatas at one point? My lease is up in a year and I am seriously thinking about getting a convertible for the first time. I’ve lived in Florida for over twenty years and it seems like a perfect way to enjoy my beautiful state. 🙂
Tabbie says
Looks like a really fun cruising car!
Sela says
You look great in that Miata. I too like driving manual shift cars. Convertibles are so much fun.
Lesley says
We’re huge Mazda fans in this family. I love the Miata. So stylish and great for cruising in California, especially on the coast.
Khushboo says
MX-5 Miata looks gorgeous and I would love to take it for a test drive. Loved reading about your experience 🙂
Gladys Parker says
That 2018 Mazda MX-5 Miata Club is truly a beautiful car. I know that was an awesome trip for you, I’m jealous. Not because I know much about cars because I don’t, but man a sweet car and the California coast – amazing! I like the sound of push start and of course heated seats I live in N.Y.
Danielle says
I adore california, and have travelled around a lot, but I would love to drive round next time.
Garf says
That car is perfect for California cruising. Nice ride.
Jane Davidson | Typically Jane says
Fun!! That is the PERFECT car to cruise around California in the summer with the top down!