The 2020 Mazda MX-5 remains a top choice for driving enthusiasts seeking a fun, dependable, and affordable sports car
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Every now and then, carmakers get it right. They come up with a model that’s well-designed, well-engineered, affordable, driveable and reliable.
Models like the Toyota Camry, Honda Civic, Mazda 5, Porsche Boxster and, if you go back in time, the BMW 2002 and E30, Volvo 240, MGB, Volkswagen Beetle, Jaguar E-Type and so on all fall into this category.
To that list we can add the 2020 Mazda MX-5, or Miata as it’s still affectionately known by many owners.
When it first launched, the 2020 Mazda MX-5 was praised for its sharp handling, reliability, and fun-to-drive character. Now, as a used car, it continues to be a solid choice for those seeking an affordable sports car that delivers on both performance and enjoyment. The MX-5 still checks all the right boxes for driving enthusiasts.
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The 2020 MX-5 stayed true to its roots, maintaining the lightweight, driver-focused design that has made it an icon over the years. Powered by a 2.0-litre, 16-valve four-cylinder engine with 181 horsepower, it pairs nicely with a six-speed manual transmission that delivers a responsive, engaging driving experience. With rear-wheel drive and near-perfect 50-50 weight distribution, the MX-5 remains a traditional sports car in the truest sense.
You can still find used models that offer standout features such as Bilstein shocks, 17-inch wheels, and Brembo front brakes (available on certain trims). Leather Recaro seats and the eye-catching “soul red crystal metallic” paint are additional perks for those looking for a sportier touch.
As a two-seater, the 2020 MX-5 offers limited space, with both elbow room and cargo capacity at a premium. The 130-litre trunk and single cup holder may be small by modern standards, but these are easy trade-offs for drivers who prioritize driving experience over practicality. The manually operated soft top is highly efficient, taking just 10 seconds to raise or lower, and is still considered one of the best in its class for simplicity.
Standard features on the 2020 model included air conditioning, traction control, and a variety of performance and handling enhancements, all of which contribute to its reputation as a fun and dependable ride.
The MX-5’s reliability is one of its strongest selling points. It consistently earned high marks from consumer agencies like Consumer Reports and has proven to be a durable, dependable car even several years after its release. Motorsports enthusiasts particularly love its cast-iron reliability.
Fuel economy remains a highlight, with the 2020 MX-5 delivering an efficient 9.0 L/100 km in the city and 7.0 L/100 km on the highway, though it does require premium fuel. Maintenance costs are generally low, and insurance premiums tend to be affordable for a sports car, which adds to its appeal as a used vehicle.
The 2020 Mazda MX-5 models are available in Canada for approximately $28,000 to $35,000, depending on the trim level, mileage, and vehicle condition. Base models with fewer options and higher mileage are more affordable, while well-maintained examples with additional features like Recaro seats or Brembo brakes will fetch higher prices.
If you’re shopping for a used sports car this year, alternatives to the 2020 MX-5 include the Fiat 124 Spider, Nissan 370Z Roadster, Audi TT, and Porsche Boxster. While the MX-5 may not be the fastest or most luxurious, it offers one of the best balances of price, reliability, and driving enjoyment in its class.
The 2020 Mazda MX-5 remains a compelling choice for those seeking a reliable, affordable sports car that excels in driving dynamics. While it may have lost some of its distinctive design charm over the years, it still delivers a lively, engaging driving experience that is hard to beat at this price point. Whether you’re a first-time sports car buyer or a seasoned enthusiast, the MX-5 is a solid investment that will keep you smiling behind the wheel.
Ted Laturnus has been an automotive journalist since 1976. He has been named Canadian Automotive Journalist of the Year twice and is past-president of the Automotive Journalists Association of Canada (AJAC).
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