2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The main change for the 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata is that stability control and traction control become standard on every trim. Otherwise, this is a light update with the same engine, rear-wheel-drive layout, and core trim structure as 2011.
About the 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata
3rd gen (NC, 2006-2015), post-2009 refresh, late-cycle year before the 2013 front-end update and trim reshuffle.
Mazda positions the MX-5 Miata as a simple, lightweight two-seat roadster built around driver involvement rather than straight-line power. Its appeal is the combination of rear-wheel-drive balance, quick steering responses, compact size, and open-air fun. Mazda also markets it as unusually easy to live with for a sports car, thanks to its manageable size, simple top operation, and everyday drivability.
The Sport remains the simple, driver-focused entry trim, while Touring adds useful everyday features such as cruise control, keyless entry, and steering-wheel controls. Grand Touring focuses on comfort with heated leather seats, automatic climate control, and Bose audio, while the limited Special Edition stands out with dark-finish wheels, black exterior accents, and a heated leather interior.
What changed, by category
2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, 2.0 Liter | 4-Cyl, 2.0 Liter | 4-Cyl, 2.0 Liter | 4-Cyl, 2.0 Liter |
| Transmission | Manual, 5-Spd | Manual, 6-Spd | Manual, 6-Spd | Manual, 6-Spd |
| Drivetrain | RWD | RWD | RWD | RWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 21 mpg | 21 mpg | 21 mpg | 21 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 28 mpg | 28 mpg | 28 mpg | 28 mpg |
| Horsepower | 167 hp | 167 hp | 167 hp | 167 hp |
| Torque | 140 lb-ft | 140 lb-ft | 140 lb-ft | 140 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 5.3 cu-ft | 5.3 cu-ft | 5.3 cu-ft | 5.3 cu-ft |
| Seats | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Doors | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Alarm System | ||||
| Cruise Control | ||||
| Alloy Wheels | ||||
| Fog Lights | ||||
| HID Headlights | ||||
| Power Retractable Hard Top | ||||
| Rear Spoiler | ||||
| Bluetooth | ||||
| Premium Audio | ||||
| Satellite Radio | ||||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | ||||
| Automatic Air Conditioning | ||||
| Heated Front Seats | ||||
| Integrated Garage Door Opener | ||||
| Leather Seats | ||||
| Power Locks | ||||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | ||||
| Remote Keyless Entry | ||||
| Tilt Wheel | ||||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata?
The biggest change is standard Dynamic Stability Control and Traction Control on every 2012 MX-5 Miata trim. These systems help the driver maintain control when the tires begin to slip.
Did the 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata get a new engine?
No, the 2012 MX-5 Miata keeps the 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and rear-wheel-drive layout used for 2011. The basic chassis hardware also remains essentially unchanged.
Was there a 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata Special Edition?
Yes, Mazda added a 450-unit Special Edition for 2012. It has black exterior accents, dark-finish 17-inch wheels, heated black leather seats with gray stitching, Bluetooth, and xenon headlights, but no added engine power.
How does the 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata differ from the 2011 model?
The 2012 model makes stability control and traction control standard across the lineup and adds a limited Special Edition. The engine, rear-wheel-drive layout, and regular Sport, Touring, and Grand Touring structure otherwise carry over.