karkrub

Karkrub Review

The 2020 Mazda MX-5 2.0 30th Anniversary Convertible MT marked a significant milestone for the automaker, highlighting three decades of its beloved roadster. This edition was limited to just 3,000 units worldwide, embodying a long tradition of fun, compact sports cars with a unique blend of contemporary features and design elements that pay homage to its rich history.

Specs of the Car

The 30th Anniversary model houses a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter four-cylinder SkyActiv engine delivering 181 horsepower and 151 lb-ft of torque. It utilizes a six-speed manual transmission, which makes for a visceral driving experience. Its weight distribution is nearly 50/50, enhancing its overall balance and performance. Fuel economy is estimated at 26 MPG city/34 MPG highway.

The History of the Model

The Mazda MX-5, also known as the Miata, debuted in 1989 and has remained a beloved model among driving enthusiasts worldwide. Celebrated for its compact size, agile handling, and affordable price, the MX-5 has earned a loyal fan base. The 2020 30th Anniversary edition marks a significant milestone for this iconic roadster.

The Development of the Model

The 30th Anniversary edition showcased how Mazda evolved the MX-5 while maintaining the model’s original ethos: the pursuit of driving pleasure. Its design incorporated the classic roadster style with modern, distinctive features, such as exclusive Racing Orange exterior paint and Rays forged alloy wheels. Inside, it features Recaro seats, orange accents throughout the cabin, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.

Journalist Reviews at the Time of Release

Upon release, the 30th Anniversary edition received praise from automotive journalists for its balanced handling, engaging driving experience, and its ability to stay true to the model’s heritage while introducing contemporary features. Some critics expressed reservations about the infotainment system, noting it could be more intuitive. However, most agreed that these minor flaws did not overshadow the car’s overall appeal.

Types of Modifications Typically Done

Typical modifications on the MX-5 often aim to enhance its performance or personalize its aesthetics. Popular changes include suspension upgrades for sharper handling, aftermarket exhaust systems for improved sound and performance, and aesthetic modifications such as body kits and custom paint jobs. However, purists often prefer to keep the car as close to stock as possible, honoring the MX-5’s design and engineering philosophy.

The 2020 Mazda MX-5 2.0 30th Anniversary Convertible MT is a testament to Mazda’s dedication to driving enjoyment and the continual evolution of the iconic MX-5. It seamlessly blends the spirit of the original with contemporary enhancements, marking a significant milestone in the history of one of the world’s most beloved roadsters.

Karkrub story

A man in Bangkok city named Jome In 2022, he bought a vibrant Racing Orange Mazda MX-5 2.0 30th Anniversary Convertible MT.

Jome wasn’t a car enthusiast by any means, but when he saw the MX-5 for the first time at a car show, it was love at first sight. The striking color mirrored a beautiful Thai sunset, and the compact design was perfect for the narrow streets of Bangkok. It wasn’t the fastest car around, nor the most luxurious, but that wasn’t what Jome was looking for. He was smitten by its simplicity, and how it promised fun with just the right touch of flair.

The love for his car was instantaneous and profound. Every day, Jome would wake up early in the morning to drive around the city with the top down, feeling the warm tropical breeze. There was something about the way the Mazda MX-5 handled; it felt like an extension of himself. The purr of the engine, the smooth gear shifts, the way it took corners—it all contributed to his love for the car.

One day, Jome planned a road trip to Hua Hin with his life partner, Chutima. They drove along the coastline, feeling the sun on their faces and the wind in their hair. It was the first time they had taken the MX-5 out of the city, and the car performed flawlessly, enhancing the joy of their journey. Chutima shared Jome’s love for the car, and it was on that trip, under the starry night sky, that Jome asked Chutima to be his wife. Their Mazda was not only a witness but also a part of this beautiful moment, creating a memory they would cherish forever.

From then on, every time Jome sat in his MX-5, he couldn’t help but smile. The car held a special place in his heart, not just because of its fun and lively nature, but because it was entwined with one of the most beautiful memories of his life.

Now, in 2023, Jome has decided to pass on his beloved Mazda to a new owner. It wasn’t an easy decision, but he felt it was time for the MX-5 to create new stories and memories. He is not just selling a car; he’s passing on a piece of his heart, a witness to his love story, and a promise of joy and adventure to the next lucky driver.

And so, as the sun sets over the Bangkok skyline, painting the sky the same color as his Mazda MX-5, Jome knows that even though he’s saying goodbye, the love and memories he shared with the car will always remain.

Karkrub Score

Design: 9.2/10
The 2022 Mazda MX-5 30th Anniversary presents a striking appearance, marked by its exclusive Racing Orange paint, sleek lines, and Rays forged alloy wheels. Inside, Recaro seats and orange accents add to the exclusive feel. The design is both classic and contemporary, staying true to the spirit of the original MX-5, while also incorporating modern aesthetics.

Power: 8.5/10
The 2.0L SkyActiv engine outputs 181 horsepower and 151 lb-ft of torque, which for a car of its size is ample. Although it’s not the most powerful roadster out there, the car’s lightweight design and balance make it feel energetic and lively, resulting in a driving experience that’s more about engagement than raw power.

Fun: 9.5/10
Few cars offer as much fun per dollar as the MX-5. Its rear-wheel-drive layout, precise manual transmission, and nimble handling all contribute to a driving experience that is immensely enjoyable and engaging. The convertible nature adds to the fun factor, particularly on sunny days.

Comfort: 7.8/10
Comfort is a bit of a mixed bag. While the cabin is snug and driver-focused, some may find it too cramped, especially on longer journeys. The ride is also firmer than what you’d find in a luxury car, a consequence of the sporty suspension setup. Noise levels can be higher than average, particularly with the top down.

Reliability: 9/10
Mazda has a solid reputation for reliability, and the MX-5 is no exception. It’s built with care and quality in mind, and historically these cars have been found to have few issues over the course of their lifespan. This 30th Anniversary model should prove to be a dependable machine.

Safety: 8/10
The 2022 MX-5 is fitted with modern safety features like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, and it benefits from solid construction. However, its small size and the nature of being a convertible mean it might not fare as well as larger, more enclosed vehicles in some crash scenarios.

Value: 9.3/10
For those seeking a sports car that provides an engaging driving experience, the MX-5 offers outstanding value. Its blend of performance, style, and exclusivity — particularly in this 30th Anniversary edition — is hard to match at its price point. While not the cheapest roadster, the overall ownership experience makes it worth the cost.

Karkrub Average Score: 8.8/10
The 2022 Mazda MX-5 2.0 30th Anniversary Convertible MT scores well across multiple categories. It is a standout choice for driving enthusiasts looking for a well-designed, reliable, and enjoyable vehicle that offers good value.