2026 Mazda MX-5

The CarCody take

The 2026 Mazda MX-5 is a gasoline two-seater with rear-wheel drive, a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, and a six-speed manual transmission. Its EPA rating is 29 MPG combined, with 26 MPG city and 34 MPG highway. EPA lists annual fuel cost at $2,850 and tailpipe CO2 at 305 grams per mile.

Who it suits. Drivers wanting a two-seat, rear-wheel-drive car Buyers who prefer a six-speed manual Mostly highway driving at 34 MPG

What it is

The 2026 Mazda MX-5 is a two-seat car with rear-wheel drive. It uses a 2.0-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine and a six-speed manual transmission.

Its defining EPA figure is 29 MPG combined. That blends the 26 MPG city rating with the 34 MPG highway rating.

The numbers

Expect the EPA figure to vary with your route. City driving is rated at 26 MPG, while highway driving is rated at 34 MPG.

The MX-5 emits 305 grams of tailpipe CO2 per mile. Its EPA class is Two Seaters.

What it costs to run

EPA lists annual fuel cost at $2,850. The MX-5 runs on gasoline, and its 29 MPG combined rating is the figure to use when your driving mixes streets and highways.

How it compares

For other fuel figures from two-seat cars, see fuel-efficient two-seat cars. You can also browse other Mazda cars and fuel-efficient cars.

Who it suits

The MX-5 suits a driver who wants a two-seat car, rear-wheel drive, and a manual gearbox while keeping a clear EPA fuel figure in view.

Its 34 MPG highway rating fits drivers whose miles are mainly on open roads.

Trade-offs

The 26 MPG city rating is lower than the highway figure, so stop-and-go driving uses more fuel than steady highway travel.

This is a two-seater with rear-wheel drive and a manual transmission. Those details mean it has two seats and uses gasoline.

Verdict

The 2026 MX-5 makes sense when two seats and a manual rear-drive layout are central to your choice. Its combined 29 MPG rating gives it a straightforward fuel target, while the 34 MPG highway number favors longer, steadier trips. Budget around $2,850 a year for fuel using the EPA estimate. Choose it for its two-seat format and driving layout when those fit your needs.