30 MPG combined is a perfectly acceptable fuel economy number for the 2019 Mazda MX-5, but it is beside the point. Nobody buys an MX-5 for fuel efficiency. They buy it for the experience: open-top motoring, perfect balance, and a direct connection to the road that’s largely absent in modern cars. The 2.0L 4-cylinder engine, while not the most powerful, is eager and responsive, and the MX-5’s light weight means it doesn’t need massive horsepower to deliver thrills. Owners happily trade a few MPGs for the joy this car provides.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2019 MX-5 with the automatic transmission are 26 MPG in the city and 35 MPG on the highway. The city figure represents the stop-and-go driving many owners will experience, but the highway figure shows just how economical this car can be. While 35 MPG on the highway is adequate, remember that maximizing speed in the MX-5 often involves downshifting and climbing over 4,000 RPM. Drivers who prioritize aggressive acceleration will see that 35 MPG figure drop noticeably.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2019 Mazda MX-5 at $1,950. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 55% of those miles driven in the city and 45% on the highway, using national average fuel prices. This is a useful benchmark for comparing the MX-5 to other vehicles, but your personal fuel costs will vary based on your driving habits, the type of fuel you purchase, and local fuel prices.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA figures provide a standardized baseline, real-world fuel economy for the 2019 MX-5 is strongly dependent on driving style. Someone who frequently explores the upper ranges of the tachometer and enjoys spirited driving will likely see numbers closer to the low 20s. Cruising at a steady pace on the highway may deliver MPG figures closer to 40. An MX-5 owner focused on fuel economy above all else can achieve near-hybrid levels of efficiency from this vehicle.

How it compares

The MX-5 doesn’t have many direct competitors in terms of its specific combination of attributes – a small, lightweight, affordable roadster. However, potential buyers might also consider other sporty cars in this price range. A Subaru BRZ or Toyota GR86, while not convertibles, offer similar levels of driver engagement, with EPA estimates around 25 MPG combined. Both vehicles offer a practical rear seat and larger luggage space, but they lack the open-air experience of the MX-5. The MINI Cooper Convertible offers similar fun-to-drive character and open-top motoring, but it is a front-wheel drive layout. Its fuel economy is comparable to the MX-5, at approximately 29 MPG combined, depending on the engine and configuration. Consider viewing MX 5 MPG across all years to better understand the vehicle’s fuel economy history.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Maintain proper tire inflation. The MX-5 is particularly sensitive to tire pressure due to its light weight. Under-inflated tires increase rolling resistance and negatively impact fuel economy. Check your tire pressures regularly, especially before long drives, and ensure they are inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended specifications, often found on a sticker inside the driver’s side door jamb.

Anticipate traffic flow and avoid hard acceleration and braking. The MX-5 rewards smooth driving. By anticipating traffic lights and adjusting your speed accordingly, you can minimize the need for sudden acceleration and braking, which consume significant amounts of fuel. Try to maintain a consistent speed whenever possible, and allow plenty of space between you and the vehicle in front.

Use cruise control on the highway. Cruise control helps maintain a constant speed, which can improve fuel economy on long highway trips. However, avoid using cruise control in hilly terrain, as the transmission may unnecessarily downshift to maintain speed, reducing fuel efficiency.

Avoid carrying unnecessary weight. The MX-5 is a lightweight car, and any added weight will negatively impact fuel economy. Remove any unnecessary items from the trunk and passenger compartment to reduce the overall weight of the car.

Consider that the automatic transmission saps some power, and with it, MPG. If you want the absolute best fuel economy, consider the manual gearbox.

all Mazda fuel economy data