The 2016 Mazda MX-5 Miata is, in a single word, sublime. Drivers accustomed to rear-wheel drive vehicles, especially those new to the ND generation, might find themselves unprepared for just how exceptionally balanced this car truly is. Future experiences in other rear-wheel drive cars may pale in comparison to the poised and responsive nature of the MX-5.
However, this near-perfect equilibrium does come with a slight compromise in steering feel. While the steering rack in the 2016 MX-5 Miata is undeniably pointy, direct, and sharp – perfectly complementing its brilliant chassis – it lacks ultimate tactile sensation. Owners who have transitioned from cars with hydraulic-assisted racks, which typically offer rich feedback to the driver’s hands, may notice a difference. The ND Miata’s electric power-steering, while adequate for its purpose, can feel somewhat vague, leaving enthusiasts desiring more in terms of detailed road information transmitted through the wheel.
The inherent balance of the 2016 MX-5 Miata is crucial, as the limited feedback from the steering might otherwise leave drivers slightly less prepared for sudden vehicle reactions. Driving becomes more reliant on muscle memory and less on an innate, anticipatory adaptation based on steering feel alone. In essence, the steering in the ND Miata serves its function effectively, but represents an area where future iterations could potentially enhance the driving experience further.
One aspect of the 2016 Mazda MX-5 Miata that requires absolutely no alteration is its overall size. The compact and nimble dimensions of the ND are a significant advantage, particularly in congested urban environments. Navigating through heavy traffic and slotting into tight spaces becomes a source of constant delight. Where larger vehicles might be আটকে by traffic or unable to make quick maneuvers, the MX-5 effortlessly squeezes through. The ultimate satisfaction arises when discovering street parking spots, often nestled between buildings, that are exclusively accessible to cars of the Miata’s diminutive size or smaller. It’s easy to become that driver in a parking garage whose perfectly parked Miata appears to have left the spot vacant due to its small footprint.
Conversely, these small dimensions present certain downsides. Contemporary vehicles are trending towards larger sizes, with sports-utility vehicles dominating road presence. This places the ND Miata at a considerable size disadvantage when sharing roadways. The car’s low profile and small stature can lead to it being easily obscured in other drivers’ blind spots. Evasive actions sometimes become necessary to avoid lane-changing drivers who, failing to perform thorough head checks, mistakenly believe their path is clear.
The potential consequences of a collision with a typical modern car are not difficult to envision, and are certainly undesirable. Fortunately, such a scenario has been avoided. This underscores the critical importance of blind spot monitoring systems in modern vehicles, especially for smaller cars like the 2016 Mazda MX-5 Miata in today’s traffic landscape.
