As a certified Mazda enthusiast, I would recommend any generation Miata to anyone looking for an exciting RWD roadster who doesn’t want the frustration (and expense) inherent in German rivals. Thankfully, with the fourth-generation MX-5 Miata, you don’t have to forgo those luxury touches this time around.

The Miata’s 2.0L four-cylinder may put some off, but the Miata produces impressive figures, mostly due to its 2,400 lb curb weight. To make things even sweeter, Mazda increased the output of the Miata’s engine from 155hp to 181 hp in the 2019 model year. Weighing in at over a thousand pounds lighter than Mazda3 and CX-5 counterparts that share the same 2.0L, the 2019-present Miata sprints from 0 to 60 mph in a brisk 5.7 seconds (around 6.0 seconds for pre-2019 vehicles). While this isn’t exactly record-breaking, it’s pretty damn impressive for a naturally aspirated four-banger.

Mazda’s use of the Skyactiv 2.0L in their most popular models considerably. helps the Miata’s case for being possibly the most reliable sports car. Not only was this engine in use two years before the ND Miata’s release, but years of refinement have produced a nearly bulletproof engine.

You can easily get more power with a Mustang or Camaro, but can you throw either one around a curvy road without taking out an innocent pedestrian? Not only does the small footprint make the Miata easier to maneuver, but the vehicle also offers ample driver feedback that makes it clear when you’re close to surpassing its limits. Body rigidity and weight distribution are improved if you opt for the RF variant (retractable top), but the option will cost you an extra 110 lbs in curb weight.

Choosing between the RF and the standard soft top ultimately comes down to personal preference and practicality (as if a two-seater could be practical). The RF sports a more coupe-esque roof line with fixed C-pillars, considerably altering the profile of the Miata. The manual operation of the soft top provides peace of mind when it comes to costly electrical issues, but any convertible is prone to top-related issues such as leaking or needing to replace the top entirely. Fortunately, the retractable top mechanism is very similar to the power top option offered on the previous generation Miata and has proven to be extremely reliable. Miata RF owners do point out that rear visibility is decreased and lowering the top takes a hair longer than the manual top’s operation.

Luxurious options such as heated seats, a Bose sound system, and red or brown leatherette options make the Miata feel more akin to a BMW Z4 or Audi TT. Mazda absolutely did not leave the Miata out of their push toward the luxury space. Ergonomically and aesthetically designed, the Miata’s interior offers a floating infotainment screen (CarPlay available in 2019) and a very German-looking control knob near the gear shifter.

In my opinion, the ND Miata offers much more visual intrigue inside and out compared to its predecessor while staying true to the Miata’s essence. The ND pays homage to the first-generation Miata M-Edition (one of my favorite vehicles ever) by offering BBS wheels straight from the factory. Today, Mazda takes it up a notch and pairs the BBS wheel package with hefty and sexy Brembo brakes.

The ND Miata perfectly encapsulates the mission of EZ Car Buyer’s Guide. Providing, luxury, performance, and fun, you can be responsible while still living life to the fullest. Nobody said that reliability and excitement were mutually exclusive.