Mazda has made it crystal clear that work is well underway on a new Miata. That’s hardly a surprise given the continuous success of the popular roadster, even though the ND is getting up there in years. The fourth-generation model has been around for nearly 12 years, spawning multiple technical revisions and special editions throughout its lengthy life cycle.
But in 2026, the company still isn’t done tweaking the convertible sports car before its replacement (hopefully) arrives later this decade. The latest changes are happening not necessarily because Mazda wants to further update the Miata, but mostly because it has to ensure the car can continue to be sold in its domestic market. Japan’s latest external noise regulations are forcing engineers to revisit the ND yet again, fitting it with quieter tires and a larger silencer.
