The 2016 Miata, also known as the ND Miata, is often described in a single word by enthusiasts: sublime. This descriptor perfectly encapsulates the feeling behind the wheel, especially when considering its rear-wheel drive balance that sets a high bar for other cars in its class. Stepping out of the ND and into other rear-wheel drive vehicles can be a jarring experience, as few achieve the same level of equilibrium.
However, this near-perfect balance is slightly let down by a steering system that, while sharp and direct, lacks ultimate tactile feedback. The steering rack is undeniably pointy and complements the brilliant chassis, making for eager turn-ins and nimble handling. Yet, compared to older hydraulic systems, like that found in the WRX STI, the electric power steering in the 2016 Miata feels somewhat vague. Where the STI’s steering communicated every nuance of the road surface, the ND’s system leaves the driver wanting more in terms of sensation. The car’s exceptional balance mitigates this issue to some extent, as it compensates for the scant feedback, relying more on muscle memory and driver instinct than explicit steering feel to predict and react to the car’s limits. While adequate for its intended purpose, improved steering feel would undoubtedly elevate the Miata driving experience in future iterations.
One aspect of the 2016 Miata that needs no improvement is its size. Its compact dimensions are a significant advantage, particularly in congested urban environments. Navigating dense city traffic becomes a joy in the nimble ND. Squeezing into tight spaces and exploiting shortcuts inaccessible to larger vehicles brings a unique sense of satisfaction. While a standard-sized car might be stuck in a queue waiting to turn right on a red light, the MX-5 can often slip through on the side, bypassing congestion with ease. The ultimate expression of this advantage is finding parking spots that seem to appear out of thin air – spaces sandwiched between buildings that only a car the size of a Miata, or smaller, can occupy.
The diminutive size, while advantageous in city driving, presents a notable downside when it comes to safety and visibility in modern traffic. As vehicles, especially SUVs, continue to grow in size, the ND Miata finds itself at a considerable size disadvantage. The car’s low profile makes it easy to disappear into blind spots of larger vehicles. Evasive maneuvers become a frequent necessity as drivers in larger cars, failing to perform proper head checks or misjudging lane clearances, inadvertently drift into the Miata’s lane. The potential consequences of a collision with a typical modern car are sobering to consider. Thankfully, near-misses have been the extent of these encounters. In this context, blind spot monitoring systems are not merely a convenience but a potentially life-saving feature.
