The 2026 Mazda MX-5 Miata is one of the most celebrated sports cars on the road today. It delivers a pure, driver-focused experience that few vehicles can match. If you're looking at the 2026 Mazda MX-5 Miata and trying to understand the trim levels in Jacksonville, this guide will help you understand what separates each version so you can find the one that fits your style and driving habits.
The Miata comes in two distinct body styles - the classic soft-top convertible and the retractable fastback MX-5 Miata RF. Both share the same trim structure, so your first decision is really about the roof.
The Soft-Top vs. the RF: Two Ways to Open Up
Before diving into trim differences, you need to understand Miata's body styles. The standard MX-5 Miata features a traditional folding soft top, while the MX-5 Miata RF uses a power-folding retractable hardtop with a fastback roofline. Both deliver the same 29 MPG combined EPA estimate across manual and automatic transmission models, so efficiency is consistent no matter which direction you go.
The RF adds a more coupe-like appearance when closed, making it a great option for drivers who want that sporty profile without sacrificing open-air driving.
Sport: The Pure Starting Point
The Sport trim is where the Miata experience begins. Available exclusively as a Soft Top with an available six-speed manual transmission, it strips away the extras to focus on pure driving engagement. Every 2026 MX-5 Miata is powered by a naturally aspirated 2.0L Skyactiv-G four-cylinder engine generating 181 hp and 151 lb-ft of torque, sending power directly to the rear wheels. The entry-level Sport comes equipped with 16-in Metallic Black aluminum alloy wheels with high-performance tires, dual exhaust outlets, LED headlights and taillights, an 8.8-in center infotainment display with Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ integration, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. Standard i-Activsense® safety technology—including Blind Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert and Smart Brake Support is also included.
Club: Performance-Focused Middle Ground
The Club trim is offered in both the classic Soft Top and the Retractable Fastback (RF) body styles, the manual-only Club trim adds a sport-tuned suspension featuring Bilstein® dampers, a front shock tower brace for added chassis stiffness, and an asymmetric torque-sensing limited-slip differential to maximize cornering traction. Exterior upgrades include 17-in Metallic Black alloy wheels, a black front air dam, and a rear lip spoiler. Inside, the cabin is equipped with heated seats with contrast stitching, wireless smartphone connectivity, and a premium 9-speaker Bose® audio system with driver and passenger headrest speakers.
Grand Touring: Style for the Long Haul
Available in both Soft Top and RF configurations, the Grand Touring is the only model in the lineup that offers a choice between a six-speed manual transmission and an available six-speed Sport automatic transmission with paddle shifters. Exterior highlights include 17-in Metallic Black alloy wheels, body-colored heated power side mirrors, and an Adaptive Front-lighting System that turns the LED headlights with steering inputs. The interior upgrades to heated leather-trimmed seats, automatic climate control, rain-sensing windshield wipers, auto-dimming rearview mirror with HomeLink®, and integrated Mazda Navigation.
Safety Across Every Trim
One area where every 2026 Mazda MX-5 Miata trim levels benefit equally is safety. The Miata has earned a 2026 IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award, joining nearly the entire Mazda lineup in that recognition. In fact, Mazda has more 2026 IIHS Top Safety Pick+ awards than any other brand as of July 2026, and Consumer Reports has named Mazda the Safest New-Car Brand. That's a strong foundation regardless of which trim you choose.
Find Your Miata at Tom Bush Mazda
If you're drawn to the focused Sport, the performance-minded Club, or the polished Grand Touring, there's a 2026 Mazda MX-5 Miata trim built around how you like to drive. This 2026 Mazda Miata trim comparison should give you a clear starting point for your decision. Stop by Tom Bush Mazda or visit us online at tombushmazda.com to explore current inventory and find the right Miata for Jacksonville's roads and beyond.