I have a 2021 RF Touring that I bought new about two and a half years ago. When someone gets a new car, any new car you have to acclimate yourself to the car. This does not happen instantly, it takes a little time. The first thing, and I think the most important is learning your new car’s blind spot because all cars have a blind spot. Even with a fully open regular convertible you can miss something when using just your mirrors without turning your head a bit. I have heard people complain about the blind spot in the RF but I have not experienced this. With my mirrors properly set I manage quite easily. My Mini Cooper coupe had much much more of a blind spot area than my RF. Examining this current generation MX5 reveals the tremendous amount of engineering and attention to detail that has gone into these cars and there is a reason things are the way they are. Soft top or RF with the top opened on a sunny day sun will hit you. The sun visors are small, a lot like the ones on my MGB from many years ago. It’s a small sports car you can’t really put visors the size of tennis rackets on it and no they do not swivel out to the side, that’s the way it is. Maybe on a Porsche they do, I don’t know I’ll have to check. Opening the top below 6 MPH. Just do it when standing still. Even if I had a car that would do it at 30 MPH I would not. If you ride a motor cycle you know that at 30 MPH wind pressure is already getting strong, you can’t keep your eyes opened with out glasses or googles at 30 MPH. The top will start catching a lot of air even below 30 MPH, becoming a parachute and expensive parts are going to start to bend. So even if some cars will operate the top at 30 I would choose not to because eventually all that stress will come back to bite you. Ask my cousin who had to have his Porsche top repaired. My 2021 does have Apple Car Play and a back up camera. Many cars did not have backup cameras until they became mandatory so now they have it. The navigation and some other screen features will drive you crazy on the MX5. Programing a destination can be extremely frustrating on this Mazda but it gets easier when you learn how to program it. I have used navigators in GM cars that are a million times easier to set destination but not on Mazda. Also I have heard people complain that the power windows express to open but not to close. Any other car they can express to open and close. I was not in at the board meeting on this but you can bet that decision was made for a safety reason which I’m sure engineering could answer. You did not complain about the size of the trunk opening but it is another complaint others have made. The trunk opening is small. It looks like there is plenty of room to have made the opening larger. Engineering is an incredible science. Crumple zone design takes a lot of calculation. I was not in on that meeting either but the opening is the size it is for a reason. There are no cheap cars, even small economy cars are not cheap anymore. My RF Touring was $36,000. That’s a lot less than a Porsche and many other cars but you are getting a really nice sports car that is a joy to drive with the MX5.
I agree. Two seat sports cars involve some compromise by their very nature. You can either live with them or you can't. My 2017 RF's pluses far outweigh the insignificant minuses. Would I have liked a glovebox? Sure. Is it a a deal breaker to not have one? No. I have a 2023 Mitsubishi 4x4 truck when I want practical. When I want fun, I drive the RF.
I just purchased a new 2023 RF. I agree with everything you said. However I'm 5'3 so I don't have any blind spot issues. The door mirrors meet my eyes perfectly......I love my Miata it gets up fast
I’m 5’9” and I fit ok but it’s definitely SNUG. Being a medium build helps. It’s like a glove or an extension of your body to drive. This sports car is fantastic and totally awesome! Really it’s just plain FUN TO DRIVE! It’s not cheap though but a bargain when compared t other small convertible sports cars. For example: BMWZ4, Porsche Boxster, Nissan Z, Jaguar’s F type. Even a Mustang Ecoboost is more money in premium trim AND it’s not coming in a manual unless you the V8! So Mazda sells this starting at $30,000. That’s a base but it’s available with a manual and a peppy fuel siping 4 cylinder! Fun and economical on gas too!!
@@rembo183 Yes, I had a 2012 370z and I loved that car. I wanted another one but the prices are higher now. I don't buy used vehicles so the the Miata was the best bet for me for now.
Nice to see the 2024 addressing some of those issues like the speed you can drive and use the RF, infotainment system, blind spot alerting, backup cam, and a few others. I'll probably get the 2024 model simply because It will probably hold its value very well in the next 20 years.
I bought a used 2017 RF about 2.5 years ago and I absolutely love this machine! I will admit the issues he mentioned like the slow-speed top control and having to use the console dials vs. touch screen are just things you get used to, much like he said in the video. It doesn't take long to adjust to the nuances of your car. I don't like fingerprints on my car, so I always use the dials anyway. Regarding the blind spot - yes, this was a major deal for me when I bought it. But I keep the blind spot sensor on and most of the year, my top's down anyway, so I use that to my advantage to ensure nobody is in my blind spot. For days I cannot put the top down, I'm extra careful with lane changes. The bigger problem is large SUVs, pick-up trucks and service vehicles who don't see YOU. Owning a Miata, you have to act as if you're driving a motorcycle and people don't see you. While test driving, after immediately noticing the blind spot issue, the very next thing I noticed was the cheap visors. Again, like he said, not a big deal, but they could've been nicer quality. It wouldn't have added that much to the cost of manufacturing the car. With this all being said, he summed it up well. These are little things that aren't the end of the world but could have been addressed. I still say, this is a fantastic vehicle. I actually enjoy driving again, despite the roads being constantly filled with idiots.
I drove a Miata soft top for the first time ever a few weeks ago. I noticed that the rear view mirror on the RF is about 1 inch lower than the soft top. It was just enough to make a difference for me being 6' tall. I had to duck my head slightly just to see forward. I also preferred the open top feel of the soft top. The RF does look better in my opinion. But, I have also heard that the RF has wind buffeting when the top is open. I would have to drive one to see if it is true. But, it would be very annoying if it is indeed the case.
Someone may have pointed this out already but Mazda will retrofit any of these NDs with CarPlay for $400. Sucks that it costs so much, but really wonderful that they offer it, because I can't think of any other manufacturer that will. Good video. Still struggling with whether I'm setting my sights on a soft top or an RF. I want the soft top, but I have no garage to keep it in, worry about the top being cut, and like the idea of a quieter ride with the hard top. But the wind buffeting and the 'targa top' version of the convertible seems like it might be too much of a compromise for me. Is the wind buffeting bad in the 50mph range? I might not be hitting 70 with the top down very often anyway, but I'd like to enjoy a top-down experience on country roads that are typically around 55mph.
I used to own an 2.0 litre and it was brilliant. Miss it hugely. I agree about the blind spot, but you learn to be careful. I installed a reversing camera myself - a must have in my view, especially if rear sensors are not fitted. However, the rest of the highlighted shortcomings won’t affect your driving pleasure of this mighty sports car.
Mx5 Things has a pretty good solution to fix your roof issues. The car does so many things brilliantly that griping about the roof and blind spot is a minor grump. It’s a sport car, if you want all the luxury stuff maybe a sport car is not the perfect choice. Judged as a sport car it’s a great car. I love mine. Talk about smiles per dollar it is a great little car.
The soft top on the new MX-5 is incredible in its ease and simplicity compared to previous versions. Also, I needed to remove the visors on my NB whereas the ones on my ND don't obstruct my forward vision.
I bought a new 96 Miata. I'd still have it today if daughter didn't total it in 2005. Bye-the-way, neither she or her pax were injured. Since then, I've owned a Porsche and two Minis. All were fun, but I have to say, the Miata was the best and most fun of the bunch. I came close to buying a 2022 MX-5, but didn't due to health issues. They are resolved now and I am positive I'll get a 2024 RF. Nice review.
@@AlsoAndrew- not a signing issue compared to the numerous positives. No car is perfect. Using a feature like you want would probably end causing other issues resulting in replacing the roof like happens with Porsche Boxsters. That’s about $4-5k repair
@@AlsoAndrew - I own this car and have no need to raise or lower roof while moving. Just pull over! Or do it at a stop light. It’s not a reason to avoid the car in my opinion. Sill an affordable fun sports car. The soft top is ok though.
I laughed when Andrew sticks his arm out and says he can touch the windshield to make a point about the touch screen. Originally I was going to get mad when I read the title of this review but found myself nodding in agreement with each point. Well except for Apple Car Play and the backup camera which my 2022 thankfully has. Nice gentle/comedic take on the few flaws this brilliant car has. Well done!
I think drivers will agree that most cars have issues. The key to enjoying the ride is to adapt to the car. If you don’t want to adapt, don’t buy that car! I know the MX’s trunk is small, so pack light in a duffle. Regarding the 6 mph limitation on the top operating, the engineers thought about safety and stress on the top mechanism. The complaint about the lack of touch screen use while moving, I can think of 2 reasons, #1 is safety and the other is appearance. The touch screen in my Camry shows fingerprints. Using the knob control eliminates that and makes sense when you get used to it. The only 2 things that are a minor issue for me is the second antenna which makes using a car cover a problem and the absence of real cup holders. But both are very minor takeaways when you have a fun car like the Miata to drive! 😂
1st problem fixed with a smart-top roof controller. Mirrors fix the blind spot, and it has blind spot monitoring to help. Proper driving is not to swing you head around anyway. Later Miata's have thicker sun visors, as well as a better engine. However, you are correct about the side sun. I purchased on Amazon a "TFY Car Window Sun Shade Protector". You can get a dealer upgrade to Apple car play for an ND1, I did for my 2018. Although, even my ND2 Apple CarPlay is not touch screen in motion. MX-5 Things makes a fix for that.
Nice car. I know many purists will only buy the soft top. However the hard top looks so much nicer with the top up. Good list of peeves, as you said no car is perfect and pointing out shortcomings in no way means the car doesn't meet your overall needs/expectations.
I own a 2020 GT that I bought about 18 months ago. The only real issues that I have with it is the lack of a touchscreen in CarPlay and that it limits access to my music library in Apple Music. It’s almost enough to get me to buy a 2024.
@@AlsoAndrew- See what I mean! You’re losing customers by using this Hate crap! Stay positive or close out the channel because there’s too much negativity in the world! I own and love my MIATA and when I see these titles I get pissed off so I’m just saying it’s your choice. You can continue with false and misleading clicks or BE HONEST AND ADMIT AND SAY “I LOVE THE DAMN CAR.”
I feel this video was more meant to be a warning video for potentional buyers so that they can decide whether that affects their experience with the Miata or not.
I got 130k km on it. never had any issues with the mentioned "blind spot". if you know what you do while driving, nothing happens. and even if you somehow don't see someone, the blind spot monitoring does the job. it also warns when you are parked and people pass you in the parking lot.
You could try to 3d print better sun visors, and even add more functionality. Its not as good as having great vanila visors, but its better then having bad ones)) as for the music - try to listen to it instead of looking at it))
I also have an ND2 RF. You are way more forgiving of the infotainment system in this car. SOOOOOOOO slow to start up, then so laggy and unintuitive... I can't wait to buy the Alliexpress Android radio that is a direct swap.
Not sure it would be a good idea to design highly mobile sun viser. If fully deployed, like you are resquesting, they would flap and move a lot in the wind of an open roof, even potentially slap the driver in the face.
My 2017 Mazda3 has a backup camera. What annoys me the most about mazda is how slow they are to keep up with what features the customer wants. Which is probably why they don't sell as many cars as the other Japanese manufacturers.
So only one issue is with RF. The visor and blind spots are the same in the soft top while the infotainment is like that in other Mazda products. The ND3 updated the infotainment but overall it’s not worth the upgrade.
With Mazda tweak you can use the touchscreen in motion and many other settings. But it's a fun car. And you can better buy a normal car with those complaints.
Can anyone one that owns a newer Miata tell me if the a/c vents can aim directly at your face and is the a/c good? I ask because I currently own a 2009 BMW 128i convertible and the a/c vents are terrible and can't be aimed directly towards you face. The left vent by the driver's window aims more towards the window than it does towards the driver. The center vents aren't much better but do aim more towards you than the side vents. Over all I dislike the way the vents were designed for the lack of precise aiming.
Price of lightweight sports cars. Gotta be willing to make a few sacrifices. Out of high school I lived out of Fiero then NA MX5. However I did go new BRZ to fit a subwoofer but am envious of ND owners. You guys even get good looking engine bay.
No one mentions the bloody ownership anxiety of this thing. If you live anywhere with unpredictable weather mainly the tropics, you'll second guess taking it out. The inner conflict of saying: Well the weathers nice now, but will it hold up? Its unfortunately what has held me back otherwise I'd be driving mine daily. So that's a piece of advice for anyone, if you can't stand the fact you won't be driving this thing when YOU want I'd think about it. In my personal case its either take the car out when the skies are clear or take out my XV if the weathers too bad, or wait until its summer. So any chance there's good weather I take mine for a stroll, specially on weekends. If you're already digesting the idea this car will be your summer car well you're on the right track then. My 2024 RF is almost reaching 3,000km and its been nothing but smiles if it were my only car I'd be having some issues.
Hi, thanks for your video. I am considering an RF because of the style and many of the issues you mentioned I am aware of. However, coming from an MGB, I think they are mostly mute points for me. However, I am concerned about the cabin noise which is something you did not mention. Some tell me that there is a lot of buffering in the cabin when the hard top is down and between road, tire and wind noise it is much louder than the convertible. Do you find it very loud?
MX5things offers a relatively inexpensive plug-n-play controller that allows you to modify the speed limitation and switch operation of the RF top, so there is no reason you have to live with these disappointments.
Classic sports car quirks, nothing outlandish. Small infotainment, blindspots, back up camera... you compare it to a corolla but forget that Mazda purposefully made this to be a LIGHTWEIGHT SPORTS CAR first and foremost. For example, the ND lost 200 lbs from the NC. 200 lbs in an already light car is insane, and they've added more tech over the years too.
Does the glovebox compartment lock itself automatically when you lock the car, or you have to do it manually every time before you get out of car? That mazda key seems to have only buttons and not am actual key like those traditional keys.
There’s a key blade hidden inside that pops out of the bottom if needed. The Miata actually doesn’t have a traditional glovebox; the only real interior storage is between the seats, and it does not lock remotely.
Locking your glove box is not a good idea. Not leaving valuables in it is a good idea. If you lock the glove box a thief could easily destroy it and the surrounding dash. Most cars are plastics so breaking things to get in is easy. Just don’t leave anything valuable and leave unlocked.
It's a matter of your build and how you adapt to the seat I am 1.83 and love my miata, fit perfectly. I'd recommend to do a test seating at the dealership if possible
Theres nothing wrong with talking about the flaws and annoying things every car has a few for some people its a deal breaker for others they still love the car even with its flaws just bought a 2017 mx5 rf same color as the one in this video but automatic these arnt really problems for me this car is a huge upgrade for me and looks amazing can't wait to collect it
I guessed you should have researched the miata thoroughly and knew about its disadvantages before your buy the RF especially the blind spot and the roof operation
Suggestions Please: I deeply dislike the plastic rear window. Just got the mx 5 last Oct. Brand new and the plastic already has scratches. I hand wash it myself since I purchased it. Any suggestions? I see some sites that has shutter covers and a site that has sticker covers which is cheap looking ...Can the scratches come off by buffing the plastic or something? Mazda need to be ashamed of themselves for adding that cheap junk
Hate is strong word with very NEGATIVE vibes! Dislike and annoyed are much different. Consequently your message is lost in non the click bait labeling! Try a more positive message, like “ loving the exciting Miata”. Or why I OWN AND LOVE the Miata! This “hate” click is not good for your channel because it’s being overdone by so many UTubers.
6 mph not an issue for me. switch is backwards!! Do it twice and youll get it. mirrors take care of blind spots. Gave up after mirrors listening to this reviewer.
I think the slow speed for the roof to operate is only bad if you live in places where it rains alot your gonna need to pull over and you will get wet but yea like you said most of the problems are very small inconveniences but I think anyone buying this car knows that fact just bought the same model 2017 mx5 rf gt but its automatic huge upgrade for me always wanted a convertible and this looks amazing
when I am driving infotainment isnt important because..well..I should be paying attention to driving not listening to music or playing around with my screen. and cell phone works fine for GPS..people are such whinyspoiled babies
another kiddo complaining about fucking tablets on the car. i think most of the people who'd buy this car don't really care about multitasking on an underpowered giant ugly tablet covering the dashboard
you dont buy a miata for a fast roof close at the point of moving 30miles !! This is a joke .... better buy a sedan if you heve these kind of "problems" !!
I agree but yea you have to agree these are inconveniences but even if you love the car you can still find some of these things inconvenient just bought the exact same car same year trim and color but automatic love it i do find the infotainment abit inconvenient but not a deal breaker still love the car
Plus you can’t take it car wash and leave under trees - they get very dirty if left outside. Sun and rainy days are issues. Ok if you keep garaged and don’t drive much. Only wash by hand obviously. RF is better re these issues and close to same top down experience
Let me get this straight, the allowable speed for the roof, the infotainment screen size, back-up camera on a car that is 154inches long, touch function on screen...seriously this has to be a joke.
I have a 2023 Miata RF Touring as well, and I have no issues with the map feature on the screen, I guess you need to update your 2017 from the smaller engine/and /smaller screen to the newer 2023 model ??? . Nor do I have issues with which direction the button goes to operate the roof or the fact that the roof won't go up and down while going 30 mph. You should be stopped when operating the roof. Those are such trivial things compared to the fun of driving the car, or the 181 hp engine and how quick it goes from 0-60 in 5.9 seconds or that it's top speed is 140 mph, or the fact that it is spectacularly a beautiful car by design, and that it gets 36+ mpg on the highway and that it has quite a bit of trunk space for holding groceries and/or luggage. The stereo apple car play is awesome and plays my music nice and loud with great clarity. The sun visor issue should be no problem especially with wrap around sun shades on your Gourd instead of those rat-fink looking shades you're wearing my dear.
I’m glad I watched your video. Now I now there are no real issues with the Miata.
I clicked on it to make me not want a miata, but no, all it did was make me want a miata.
Worlds best ND salesman
I have a 2021 RF Touring that I bought new about two and a half years ago. When someone gets a new car, any new car you have to acclimate yourself to the car. This does not happen instantly, it takes a little time.
The first thing, and I think the most important is learning your new car’s blind spot because all cars have a blind spot. Even with a fully open regular convertible you can miss something when using just your mirrors without turning your head a bit. I have heard people complain about the blind spot in the RF but I have not experienced this. With my mirrors properly set I manage quite easily. My Mini Cooper coupe had much much more of a blind spot area than my RF.
Examining this current generation MX5 reveals the tremendous amount of engineering and attention to detail that has gone into these cars and there is a reason things are the way they are. Soft top or RF with the top opened on a sunny day sun will hit you. The sun visors are small, a lot like the ones on my MGB from many years ago. It’s a small sports car you can’t really put visors the size of tennis rackets on it and no they do not swivel out to the side, that’s the way it is. Maybe on a Porsche they do, I don’t know I’ll have to check.
Opening the top below 6 MPH. Just do it when standing still. Even if I had a car that would do it at 30 MPH I would not. If you ride a motor cycle you know that at 30 MPH wind pressure is already getting strong, you can’t keep your eyes opened with out glasses or googles at 30 MPH. The top will start catching a lot of air even below 30 MPH, becoming a parachute and expensive parts are going to start to bend. So even if some cars will operate the top at 30 I would choose not to because eventually all that stress will come back to bite you. Ask my cousin who had to have his Porsche top repaired.
My 2021 does have Apple Car Play and a back up camera. Many cars did not have backup cameras until they became mandatory so now they have it. The navigation and some other screen features will drive you crazy on the MX5. Programing a destination can be extremely frustrating on this Mazda but it gets easier when you learn how to program it. I have used navigators in GM cars that are a million times easier to set destination but not on Mazda.
Also I have heard people complain that the power windows express to open but not to close. Any other car they can express to open and close.
I was not in at the board meeting on this but you can bet that decision was made for a safety reason which I’m sure engineering could answer.
You did not complain about the size of the trunk opening but it is another complaint others have made. The trunk opening is small. It looks like there is plenty of room to have made the opening larger. Engineering is an incredible science. Crumple zone design takes a lot of calculation. I was not in on that meeting either but the opening is the size it is for a reason.
There are no cheap cars, even small economy cars are not cheap anymore. My RF Touring was $36,000. That’s a lot less than a Porsche and many other cars but you are getting a really nice sports car that is a joy to drive with the MX5.
I agree. Two seat sports cars involve some compromise by their very nature. You can either live with them or you can't. My 2017 RF's pluses far outweigh the insignificant minuses. Would I have liked a glovebox? Sure. Is it a a deal breaker to not have one? No. I have a 2023 Mitsubishi 4x4 truck when I want practical. When I want fun, I drive the RF.
I just purchased a new 2023 RF. I agree with everything you said. However I'm 5'3 so I don't have any blind spot issues. The door mirrors meet my eyes perfectly......I love my Miata it gets up fast
I’m 5’9” and I fit ok but it’s definitely SNUG. Being a medium build helps. It’s like a glove or an extension of your body to drive. This sports car is fantastic and totally awesome! Really it’s just plain FUN TO DRIVE! It’s not cheap though but a bargain when compared t other small convertible sports cars. For example: BMWZ4, Porsche Boxster, Nissan Z, Jaguar’s F type. Even a Mustang Ecoboost is more money in premium trim AND it’s not coming in a manual unless you the V8! So Mazda sells this starting at $30,000. That’s a base but it’s available with a manual and a peppy fuel siping 4 cylinder! Fun and economical on gas too!!
@@rembo183 Yes, I had a 2012 370z and I loved that car. I wanted another one but the prices are higher now. I don't buy used vehicles so the the Miata was the best bet for me for now.
Nice to see the 2024 addressing some of those issues like the speed you can drive and use the RF, infotainment system, blind spot alerting, backup cam, and a few others. I'll probably get the 2024 model simply because It will probably hold its value very well in the next 20 years.
I find the blind spot monitoring is helpful when driving through school zones when coming home from the bar.
I bought a used 2017 RF about 2.5 years ago and I absolutely love this machine! I will admit the issues he mentioned like the slow-speed top control and having to use the console dials vs. touch screen are just things you get used to, much like he said in the video. It doesn't take long to adjust to the nuances of your car. I don't like fingerprints on my car, so I always use the dials anyway.
Regarding the blind spot - yes, this was a major deal for me when I bought it. But I keep the blind spot sensor on and most of the year, my top's down anyway, so I use that to my advantage to ensure nobody is in my blind spot. For days I cannot put the top down, I'm extra careful with lane changes. The bigger problem is large SUVs, pick-up trucks and service vehicles who don't see YOU. Owning a Miata, you have to act as if you're driving a motorcycle and people don't see you.
While test driving, after immediately noticing the blind spot issue, the very next thing I noticed was the cheap visors. Again, like he said, not a big deal, but they could've been nicer quality. It wouldn't have added that much to the cost of manufacturing the car.
With this all being said, he summed it up well. These are little things that aren't the end of the world but could have been addressed. I still say, this is a fantastic vehicle. I actually enjoy driving again, despite the roads being constantly filled with idiots.
I drove a Miata soft top for the first time ever a few weeks ago. I noticed that the rear view mirror on the RF is about 1 inch lower than the soft top. It was just enough to make a difference for me being 6' tall. I had to duck my head slightly just to see forward. I also preferred the open top feel of the soft top. The RF does look better in my opinion. But, I have also heard that the RF has wind buffeting when the top is open. I would have to drive one to see if it is true. But, it would be very annoying if it is indeed the case.
Good summary of the "flaws". I'm planning to get one (2024 ND3 maybe). So, it's good to get pre-warned on all of these issues.
Nice! It’s still a phenomenal car and you’ll love it. ND3 will have new infotainment which should be better.
Someone may have pointed this out already but Mazda will retrofit any of these NDs with CarPlay for $400. Sucks that it costs so much, but really wonderful that they offer it, because I can't think of any other manufacturer that will.
Good video. Still struggling with whether I'm setting my sights on a soft top or an RF. I want the soft top, but I have no garage to keep it in, worry about the top being cut, and like the idea of a quieter ride with the hard top. But the wind buffeting and the 'targa top' version of the convertible seems like it might be too much of a compromise for me. Is the wind buffeting bad in the 50mph range? I might not be hitting 70 with the top down very often anyway, but I'd like to enjoy a top-down experience on country roads that are typically around 55mph.
With the roof open and windows down, it’s not great. On the highway, keep the windows up and it will be loud but not super blustery.
The replacement USB unit that then adds Apple Carplay and Android Auto is about £60 ($75) these days, excluding fitting.
First world problems....my car roof only opens at 6miles an hour😂
The SmartTOP module solves your first two issues. One of the first things I added to the RF after I bought it.
Also, CarPlay is an easy retrofit.
Good to know, thanks!
There is also a long time fix now to let you use the touch screen whenever you want
I used to own an 2.0 litre and it was brilliant. Miss it hugely. I agree about the blind spot, but you learn to be careful. I installed a reversing camera myself - a must have in my view, especially if rear sensors are not fitted. However, the rest of the highlighted shortcomings won’t affect your driving pleasure of this mighty sports car.
Test drove a 2023 RF and it was a blast to drive. I felt like I was driving the Mach 5 from Speed Racer.
Mx5 Things has a pretty good solution to fix your roof issues. The car does so many things brilliantly that griping about the roof and blind spot is a minor grump. It’s a sport car, if you want all the luxury stuff maybe a sport car is not the perfect choice. Judged as a sport car it’s a great car. I love mine. Talk about smiles per dollar it is a great little car.
I noticed not many people addressed the problem with the water drainage getting clogged and leads to flooding the trunk or the passenger side floor.
That a deal breaker
Totally agree with you regarding the toggle switch.
The soft top on the new MX-5 is incredible in its ease and simplicity compared to previous versions. Also, I needed to remove the visors on my NB whereas the ones on my ND don't obstruct my forward vision.
I bought a new 96 Miata. I'd still have it today if daughter didn't total it in 2005. Bye-the-way, neither she or her pax were injured. Since then, I've owned a Porsche and two Minis. All were fun, but I have to say, the Miata was the best and most fun of the bunch. I came close to buying a 2022 MX-5, but didn't due to health issues. They are resolved now and I am positive I'll get a 2024 RF. Nice review.
I just bought a 23 RF GT… great driving fun for $35k
If you can’t wait 13 seconds for the top to cycle up or down, you’ve got issues.
13 seconds is great, that’s not the issue. As mentioned it’s the inconvenience of not being able to do it while you’re moving
@@AlsoAndrew- not a signing issue compared to the numerous positives. No car is perfect. Using a feature like you want would probably end causing other issues resulting in replacing the roof like happens with Porsche Boxsters. That’s about $4-5k repair
lmao!!!
@@AlsoAndrew - I own this car and have no need to raise or lower roof while moving. Just pull over! Or do it at a stop light. It’s not a reason to avoid the car in my opinion. Sill an affordable
fun sports car. The soft top is ok though.
I laughed when Andrew sticks his arm out and says he can touch the windshield to make a point about the touch screen. Originally I was going to get mad when I read the title of this review but found myself nodding in agreement with each point. Well except for Apple Car Play and the backup camera which my 2022 thankfully has. Nice gentle/comedic take on the few flaws this brilliant car has. Well done!
I think drivers will agree that most cars have issues. The key to enjoying the ride is to adapt to the car. If you don’t want to adapt, don’t buy that car! I know the MX’s trunk is small, so pack light in a duffle. Regarding the 6 mph limitation on the top operating, the engineers thought about safety and stress on the top mechanism. The complaint about the lack of touch screen use while moving, I can think of 2 reasons, #1 is safety and the other is appearance. The touch screen in my Camry shows fingerprints. Using the knob control eliminates that and makes sense when you get used to it. The only 2 things that are a minor issue for me is the second antenna which makes using a car cover a problem and the absence of real cup holders. But both are very minor takeaways when you have a fun car like the Miata to drive! 😂
Excellent points!
Unscrew the antenna before putting on the cover. Turn antenna counterclockwise. It’s easy!!
I’m missing the glovebox a lot!!!
@@ЮрійГордієнко-х2з - yes me too, but I love driving it so much! (GT RF Soul Red 2023.). It’s a blast especially with the MANUAL.
Really minor concerns, most of them are related to the size of the car. I have this car and I won't ever change it, it is great.
1st problem fixed with a smart-top roof controller. Mirrors fix the blind spot, and it has blind spot monitoring to help. Proper driving is not to swing you head around anyway. Later Miata's have thicker sun visors, as well as a better engine. However, you are correct about the side sun. I purchased on Amazon a "TFY Car Window Sun Shade Protector". You can get a dealer upgrade to Apple car play for an ND1, I did for my 2018. Although, even my ND2 Apple CarPlay is not touch screen in motion. MX-5 Things makes a fix for that.
Nice car. I know many purists will only buy the soft top. However the hard top looks so much nicer with the top up. Good list of peeves, as you said no car is perfect and pointing out shortcomings in no way means the car doesn't meet your overall needs/expectations.
I own a 2020 GT that I bought about 18 months ago. The only real issues that I have with it is the lack of a touchscreen in CarPlay and that it limits access to my music library in Apple Music. It’s almost enough to get me to buy a 2024.
If you hate the miata, don't get a miata.
I absolutely love the Miata - I’ve said that plenty. Every car is going to have quirks/design choices that are annoying
@@AlsoAndrew- See what I mean! You’re losing customers by using this Hate crap! Stay positive or close out the channel because there’s too much negativity in the world! I own and love my MIATA and when I see these titles I get pissed off so I’m just saying it’s your choice. You can continue with false and misleading clicks or BE HONEST AND ADMIT AND SAY “I LOVE THE DAMN CAR.”
I feel this video was more meant to be a warning video for potentional buyers so that they can decide whether that affects their experience with the Miata or not.
He literally said he didn’t hate it
Stupid comment. You should pay attention.
If a toggle switch confuses you, how did you get a drivers licence?
I got 130k km on it. never had any issues with the mentioned "blind spot". if you know what you do while driving, nothing happens. and even if you somehow don't see someone, the blind spot monitoring does the job. it also warns when you are parked and people pass you in the parking lot.
You could try to 3d print better sun visors, and even add more functionality. Its not as good as having great vanila visors, but its better then having bad ones)) as for the music - try to listen to it instead of looking at it))
Thank you for that very much! Great video!
I also have an ND2 RF. You are way more forgiving of the infotainment system in this car. SOOOOOOOO slow to start up, then so laggy and unintuitive... I can't wait to buy the Alliexpress Android radio that is a direct swap.
Not sure it would be a good idea to design highly mobile sun viser. If fully deployed, like you are resquesting, they would flap and move a lot in the wind of an open roof, even potentially slap the driver in the face.
How did you purchase an RF and it ended up being cheaper? How do you finance / what is a good way of finding a good deal?
My 2017 Mazda3 has a backup camera. What annoys me the most about mazda is how slow they are to keep up with what features the customer wants. Which is probably why they don't sell as many cars as the other Japanese manufacturers.
So only one issue is with RF. The visor and blind spots are the same in the soft top while the infotainment is like that in other Mazda products. The ND3 updated the infotainment but overall it’s not worth the upgrade.
With Mazda tweak you can use the touchscreen in motion and many other settings. But it's a fun car. And you can better buy a normal car with those complaints.
There’s some guides online on how to enable CarPlay on these Mx-5 models. May be worth a look
Great Recap. Seems like a fun car.
You can retrofit the infotainment system with Android Auto/Apple Carplay!
Can anyone one that owns a newer Miata tell me if the a/c vents can aim directly at your face and is the a/c good? I ask because I currently own a
2009 BMW 128i convertible and the a/c vents are terrible and can't be aimed directly towards you face. The left vent by the driver's window aims more towards the window than it does towards the driver. The center vents aren't much better but do aim more towards you than the side vents. Over all I dislike the way the vents were designed for the lack of precise aiming.
Good video! Has anyone ever told you that your speech resembles Guilfoyle on Silicon Valley? That's a compliment. Unless you don't like Guilfoyle! 🤣
Haha never gotten that but after watching a couple clips I can see it. Thanks for watching!
Price of lightweight sports cars. Gotta be willing to make a few sacrifices. Out of high school I lived out of Fiero then NA MX5.
However I did go new BRZ to fit a subwoofer but am envious of ND owners. You guys even get good looking engine bay.
The roof doesn’t go down or up, it opens or closes hence the switch is up to open and down to close, just like the door locks
No one mentions the bloody ownership anxiety of this thing. If you live anywhere with unpredictable weather mainly the tropics, you'll second guess taking it out. The inner conflict of saying: Well the weathers nice now, but will it hold up? Its unfortunately what has held me back otherwise I'd be driving mine daily. So that's a piece of advice for anyone, if you can't stand the fact you won't be driving this thing when YOU want I'd think about it. In my personal case its either take the car out when the skies are clear or take out my XV if the weathers too bad, or wait until its summer. So any chance there's good weather I take mine for a stroll, specially on weekends. If you're already digesting the idea this car will be your summer car well you're on the right track then. My 2024 RF is almost reaching 3,000km and its been nothing but smiles if it were my only car I'd be having some issues.
Hi, thanks for your video. I am considering an RF because of the style and many of the issues you mentioned I am aware of. However, coming from an MGB, I think they are mostly mute points for me. However, I am concerned about the cabin noise which is something you did not mention. Some tell me that there is a lot of buffering in the cabin when the hard top is down and between road, tire and wind noise it is much louder than the convertible. Do you find it very loud?
The RF is much better insulated than the soft top, but they’re both pretty loud in terms of wind/road noise
I adjust my side mirrors so cars in my rear view mirror transition to the side mirrors. No matter what car I'm driving this has never been an issue
Cool vid. How tall are you?
Thanks. 6’1” still fit mostly comfortably
@AlsoAndrew yeahhhh thats what i was afraid of. Ive alllways wanted a miata. But im 6'3" and a lot thicker than you lol.
Guess ill pass
Haha fair enough. Head room is fine but I can’t stretch my legs out as much as I’d like
If you want to fit into it, you'll fit into it. It's part of the fun.@@AlsoAndrew
MX5things offers a relatively inexpensive plug-n-play controller that allows you to modify the speed limitation and switch operation of the RF top, so there is no reason you have to live with these disappointments.
In days of old, you had to stop your car before it would allow you to operate the soft top
Has acid rain suddenly become far more acidic?
Classic sports car quirks, nothing outlandish. Small infotainment, blindspots, back up camera... you compare it to a corolla but forget that Mazda purposefully made this to be a LIGHTWEIGHT SPORTS CAR first and foremost. For example, the ND lost 200 lbs from the NC. 200 lbs in an already light car is insane, and they've added more tech over the years too.
Lock yohr brightness levels before recording. It is fluctuating
Does the glovebox compartment lock itself automatically when you lock the car, or you have to do it manually every time before you get out of car? That mazda key seems to have only buttons and not am actual key like those traditional keys.
There’s a key blade hidden inside that pops out of the bottom if needed. The Miata actually doesn’t have a traditional glovebox; the only real interior storage is between the seats, and it does not lock remotely.
Good info here! Thanks.
Locking your glove box is not a good idea. Not leaving valuables in it is a good idea. If you lock the glove box a thief could easily destroy it and the surrounding dash. Most cars are plastics so breaking things to get in is easy. Just don’t leave anything valuable and leave unlocked.
Cubby hole between the seats no glove box.and one behind driver seat or passenger seat
@@AlsoAndrewmy 2012 has a glovebox. When did they get rid of it?
Can I fit comfortably? I am of 1,87cm! Very informative video ?
I’m about 6ft/182cm and I fit so you should be fine
It's a matter of your build and how you adapt to the seat I am 1.83 and love my miata, fit perfectly. I'd recommend to do a test seating at the dealership if possible
My mx5 has wireless carplay though? Also your blindspot issue is definitely fixed by getting a soft top.
What about wind noise top down ?
give me one example of a car that is 100% perfect in every single aspect
Theres nothing wrong with talking about the flaws and annoying things every car has a few for some people its a deal breaker for others they still love the car even with its flaws just bought a 2017 mx5 rf same color as the one in this video but automatic these arnt really problems for me this car is a huge upgrade for me and looks amazing can't wait to collect it
Why did you buy a convertible if the sun bothers you?
1:30 “rate of speed” must be an American thing. Surely it’s either “rate” or “speed”, but not both???
I guessed you should have researched the miata thoroughly and knew about its disadvantages before your buy the RF especially the blind spot and the roof operation
I own one and there’s no issue about blind spots. Just look in the side mirrors and turn your head around!😂
Suggestions Please: I deeply dislike the plastic rear window. Just got the mx 5 last Oct. Brand new and the plastic already has scratches. I hand wash it myself since I purchased it. Any suggestions? I see some sites that has shutter covers and a site that has sticker covers which is cheap looking ...Can the scratches come off by buffing the plastic or something? Mazda need to be ashamed of themselves for adding that cheap junk
Is it plastic on the RF? Or do you have the soft top?
Why would you want to fold your roof at any speed other than stop anyway??? LOL .
My couple reasons why Mazda has flaws: console is too low and my drinks fly’s everywhere. Inconsistent electric response.
Hate is strong word with very NEGATIVE vibes! Dislike and annoyed are much different. Consequently your message is lost in non the click bait labeling! Try a more positive message, like “ loving the exciting Miata”. Or why I OWN AND LOVE the Miata! This “hate” click is not good for your channel because it’s being overdone by so many UTubers.
I thought for sure he was going to say it had a small trunk.
You know the problem here you got the first gen ND the nd 2 was refined and apple car play
I drove an RF and roof down there is bad buffeting. End of interest.
Item 1. You hate it that you didn't buy the soft top.
This guy has got the ultimate hipster "beard"
First world problems. Drive it like you stole it or sell it.
I hate it but I love it.
Your somewhere between nit-picking and sniveling. Compare it to a model T. You will appreciate it much more.
This guy makes some ridiculous comments. I'd like to see someone open or close the manual soft top at 30 mph.
I can tell you really like the car cause all of these cons are just nitpicks 😂
if u dont like ur mazda try the 1995 MAZDA miata its better
The top is not metal - it's composite plastic.
Add as nav card.
You should get a Corolla.
6 mph not an issue for me.
switch is backwards!! Do it twice and youll get it.
mirrors take care of blind spots.
Gave up after mirrors listening to this reviewer.
I think the slow speed for the roof to operate is only bad if you live in places where it rains alot your gonna need to pull over and you will get wet but yea like you said most of the problems are very small inconveniences but I think anyone buying this car knows that fact just bought the same model 2017 mx5 rf gt but its automatic huge upgrade for me always wanted a convertible and this looks amazing
when I am driving infotainment isnt important because..well..I should be paying attention to driving not listening to music or playing around with my screen. and cell phone works fine for GPS..people are such whinyspoiled babies
I have think you make some good points but it’s hard to watch.
If you want features like CarPlay and reverse camera, buy a later model that has those features. Half of this video is just nonsense
Thanks for the video. The only complaint I have is that you should buy yourself an iPhone because your camera is awful
learn to use your mirrors and buttons as it should.
another kiddo complaining about fucking tablets on the car. i think most of the people who'd buy this car don't really care about multitasking on an underpowered giant ugly tablet covering the dashboard
you dont buy a miata for a fast roof close at the point of moving 30miles !! This is a joke .... better buy a sedan if you heve these kind of "problems" !!
I agree but yea you have to agree these are inconveniences but even if you love the car you can still find some of these things inconvenient just bought the exact same car same year trim and color but automatic love it i do find the infotainment abit inconvenient but not a deal breaker still love the car
It’s a 2017. More to hate on.
„Hate“…..
Hate how you keep smacking your lips like bro
I would never risk getting a soft top. Too easy to break in, snow and rain will destroy it. RF all the way
Plus you can’t take it car wash and leave under trees - they get very dirty if left outside. Sun and rainy days are issues. Ok if you keep garaged and don’t drive much. Only wash by hand obviously. RF is better re these issues and close to same top
down experience
There’s something wrong with you
I drove one brand new one today. Slowest worst driving car I have every tested that was new. Even a pos civic was better.
just sell the car
Hate? Ridiculous title...cancel my subscription, oh wait...
Let me get this straight, the allowable speed for the roof, the infotainment screen size, back-up camera on a car that is 154inches long, touch function on screen...seriously this has to be a joke.
Have to nitpick when the car is so good otherwise!
Sell your Miata and buy an EV.
I have a 2023 Miata RF Touring as well, and I have no issues with the map feature on the screen, I guess you need to update your 2017 from the smaller engine/and /smaller screen to the newer 2023 model ??? . Nor do I have issues with which direction the button goes to operate the roof or the fact that the roof won't go up and down while going 30 mph. You should be stopped when operating the roof. Those are such trivial things compared to the fun of driving the car, or the 181 hp engine and how quick it goes from 0-60 in 5.9 seconds or that it's top speed is 140 mph, or the fact that it is spectacularly a beautiful car by design, and that it gets 36+ mpg on the highway and that it has quite a bit of trunk space for holding groceries and/or luggage. The stereo apple car play is awesome and plays my music nice and loud with great clarity. The sun visor issue should be no problem especially with wrap around sun shades on your Gourd instead of those rat-fink looking shades you're wearing my dear.