The 2026 Mazda MX-5 Miata and 2026 Toyota GR86 give North Shore driving enthusiasts two rear-wheel-drive sports cars with distinct designs and driving experiences. The MX-5 Miata pairs a 2.0L SKYACTIV-G four-cylinder engine producing 181 horsepower and 151 lb-ft of torque with a lightweight, two-seat roadster layout. The Toyota GR86 uses a naturally aspirated 2.4L boxer four-cylinder engine that generates 228 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque in a four-seat coupe.
For drivers in Danvers, Beverly, Peabody, Salem, Lynnfield, and surrounding North Shore communities, North Shore Mazda helps shoppers compare the MX-5 Miata's performance, transmission options, roof configurations, handling, technology, and everyday usability.
2026 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2026 Toyota GR86 Key Highlights
| Feature | 2026 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2026 Toyota GR86 |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0L SKYACTIV-G four-cylinder | 2.4L naturally aspirated boxer four-cylinder |
| Horsepower | 181 hp | 228 hp |
| Torque | 151 lb-ft | 184 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual or available 6-speed automatic | 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive | Rear-wheel drive |
| Seating | 2 | 4 |
| Body Style | Soft-top roadster or RF retractable hardtop | Sports coupe |
| Manual Transmission | Standard | Available |
| Limited-Slip Differential | Available on select configurations | Available on select configurations |
Specifications and equipment vary by trim, body style, and transmission.
2026 Mazda MX-5 Miata Brings Lightweight Performance to Every Drive
The 2026 MX-5 Miata uses a 2.0L SKYACTIV-G four-cylinder engine producing 181 horsepower and 151 lb-ft of torque. Rear-wheel drive and a six-speed manual transmission come standard, while the Grand Touring trim offers an available six-speed automatic. Drivers can choose the traditional soft-top roadster or the MX-5 Miata RF, which features a retractable hardtop.
2026 Mazda MX-5 Miata Performance Highlights
- 2.0L SKYACTIV-G four-cylinder engine
- 181 horsepower and 151 lb-ft of torque
- Standard six-speed manual transmission
- Available six-speed automatic on Grand Touring
- Rear-wheel drive
- 7,500-rpm redline
- Available asymmetric limited-slip differential on eligible configurations
- Kinematic Posture Control
2026 Toyota GR86 Performance Highlights
- 2.4L naturally aspirated boxer four-cylinder engine
- 228 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque
- Six-speed manual or automatic transmission
- Rear-wheel drive
- Available limited-slip differential
- Available 18-inch wheels with Michelin Pilot Sport 4 tires on select models
- Special-edition GR86 Yuzu Edition
2026 Mazda MX-5 Miata Gives Drivers Two Distinct Roof Configurations
The MX-5 Miata offers two approaches to open-air driving. The soft-top model provides a traditional convertible experience, while the RF features a retractable hardtop for a different balance of coupe styling and open-air enjoyment. Both versions seat two passengers and emphasize a compact footprint, responsive handling, and direct driver engagement.
2026 Mazda MX-5 Miata Utility Highlights
- Two-seat cabin
- Available soft-top convertible
- Available RF retractable hardtop
- Approximately 4.5 cubic feet of cargo space, depending on body style
- Rear-wheel drive
- Standard 8.8-inch infotainment display
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility
- Available Bose nine-speaker audio system
2026 Toyota GR86 Utility Highlights
- Four-seat coupe configuration
- Approximately 6.3 cubic feet of cargo capacity
- Rear-wheel drive
- Fold-down rear seatbacks
- Available 18-inch alloy wheels
- Available performance-oriented equipment, depending on trim
- Available Performance Package on eligible configurations
2026 Mazda MX-5 Miata Keeps Technology Focused on the Driver
The MX-5 Miata integrates everyday connectivity into a compact cabin designed around the driver. Its 8.8-inch infotainment display supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with touch functionality available when using compatible smartphone integration. Depending on trim, drivers can also find Alexa Built-in, premium Bose audio, and additional driver-assistance features.
2026 Mazda MX-5 Miata Technology Highlights
- 8.8-inch infotainment display
- Apple CarPlay
- Android Auto
- Alexa Built-in
- Available Bose nine-speaker audio
- Available wireless phone charging, depending on configuration
- Blind Spot Monitoring
- Rear Cross Traffic Alert
2026 Toyota GR86 Technology Highlights
- 8-inch touchscreen multimedia system
- Apple CarPlay
- Android Auto
- 7-inch digital instrument cluster
- Available six-speaker audio system
- Available dual-zone automatic climate control
- Available Blind Spot Monitoring
- Available Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
What Do Automotive Experts Say About the 2026 Mazda MX-5 Miata?
Automotive reviewers often emphasize the MX-5 Miata's low weight, balanced chassis, and manual transmission when discussing its appeal to driving enthusiasts. Its naturally aspirated engine and rear-wheel-drive layout contribute to a driving experience centered on steering response and driver involvement. Source: Car and Driver, Mazda MX-5 Miata Reviews
What Are 2026 Mazda MX-5 Miata Owners Saying?
A 2026 Mazda MX-5 Miata owner praised the roadster’s styling, handling, and driving experience, writing: “This is my first Miata, and it's over the moon in terms of styling and performance. The ride is firm and the handling is on the mark tight.” Source: Kelley Blue Book, 2026 Mazda MX-5 Miata Consumer Reviews
We Help North Shore Drivers Compare the 2026 Mazda MX-5 Miata
At North Shore Mazda, we help drivers compare the MX-5 Miata's available transmissions, soft-top and RF configurations, technology, and performance features. Our dealership is located at 84 Newbury St. (Route 1 South) in Danvers, Massachusetts, and serves shoppers from Beverly, Peabody, Salem, Lynnfield, and other North Shore communities.
Whether you're taking Route 1 for a local drive, traveling along Route 128, or planning a weekend trip along the Massachusetts coast, our team can help you explore available Mazda models, discuss financing and trade-in options, and arrange a test drive.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2026 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. Toyota GR86
How much horsepower does the 2026 Mazda MX-5 Miata produce?
The 2026 MX-5 Miata produces 181 horsepower and 151 lb-ft of torque from its 2.0L SKYACTIV-G four-cylinder engine.
Does the 2026 Mazda MX-5 Miata offer a manual transmission?
Yes. A six-speed manual transmission is standard. The Grand Touring trim also offers an available six-speed automatic.
Is the 2026 Mazda MX-5 Miata rear-wheel drive?
Yes. The MX-5 Miata uses a front-midship engine layout and rear-wheel drive.
How many passengers can the MX-5 Miata accommodate?
The MX-5 Miata seats two people.
Where can North Shore drivers explore the 2026 Mazda MX-5 Miata?
North Shore Mazda is located at 84 Newbury St. (Route 1 South) in Danvers, MA. Contact our team to ask about MX-5 Miata availability and arrange a test drive.
