The adage, “the answer is always Miata,” rings true for many, but the Mazda MX-5 is slowly but surely becoming a notably more expensive proposition. The base price for the 2024 MX-5 has again climbed the cost charts.

Mazda recently revealed pricing for the 2024 MX-5. The base Sport model with a six-speed manual transmission now rings in with an MSRP of $28,985. The new entry cost marks a $935 increase over the 2023 MX-5’s base price. The 2022 Miata started at $27,300. As such, the MX-5’s base price has increased a notable 6.2 percent over the last two model years.

The 2024 MX-5 receives some notable updates to justify its price increase. All models now sport a new electric power-assisted steering system and steering rack. An 8.8-inch touchscreen is now standard, replacing the 7-inch unit. Its exterior styling has been updated with a revised grille, new wheel designs and exterior lighting elements.

A limited-slip differential is now standard on Club models fitted with the manual transmission.

The base MX-5, unsurprisingly, isn’t the only model to have its price increased for 2024, continuing the model’s overall steady climb in cost.

The base Club model is now $32,485, also $935 more than last year. The Grand Touring model has the highest increase across the lineup. The 2024 MX-5 Grand Touring with the six-speed manual starts at $33,285, a $1,235 increase over the 2023 model. The price for the automatic transmission Grand Touring model is up $1,655 from last year to $35,205 MSRP.

The base cost for the hard-top 2024 MX-5 RF model increases $1,260 over last year.  

Of course, the MSRP does not include a $1,275 destination charge. As such, the base Sport model with the manual transmission is now the only MX-5 available for under $30,000 excluding tag, title and other fees. The same model in 2022 would cost $28,315 including destination.

The MX-5’s price increases are a relatively small price to pay for its sports car prowess. It still delivers the kind of connected, fun driving characteristics that can please any enthusiast. Additions like the new limited-slip differential in manual models and its new steering rack should only increase its driving pleasure. They come with a cost, of course.

The MX-5 remains “the answer,” but that also applies to the question, “What esteemed sports car is getting pricier?