2012 Mazda MX-5 (Manual 5-spd) MPG & Specs

Quick answer

The 2012 Mazda MX-5 gets an EPA-estimated 22/27 MPG (city/highway) and 24 MPG combined, with an estimated $3,150/year fuel cost and 370.292 g/mi CO₂. Engine: 2 L 4-cyl.

The 2012 Mazda MX-5 with the 2-liter 4-cylinder premium gasoline engine returns an EPA-estimated 22 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway, for a combined 24 MPG. This page summarizes the official EPA fuel-economy and emissions data for this configuration.

Key EPA specifications
Engine2 L 4-cyl
TransmissionManual 5-spd
DriveRear-Wheel Drive
Fuel typePremium Gasoline
Vehicle classTwo Seaters
MPG — city22
MPG — highway27
MPG — combined24
Annual fuel cost*$3,150
CO₂ tailpipe370.292 g/mi
EPA GHG score
*Estimated annual fuel cost assumes 15,000 miles/year at recent average fuel prices (EPA). Figures are official EPA estimates; real-world mileage varies.

How efficient is it?

With a combined 24 MPG, the 2012 Mazda MX-5 sits in the moderate range for fuel economy. That is about 19% better than the typical Two Seaters of its era (20 MPG class average), making it one of the more efficient choices in its class.

Fuel economy and running costs

At about $3,150 per year in fuel (EPA estimate, 15,000 mi/yr), fuel is a major part of the cost of owning the 2012 Mazda MX-5. Over five years that is roughly $15,750 at today's prices — before insurance, maintenance, and depreciation.

Emissions

The 2012 Mazda MX-5 emits approximately 370.292 grams of CO₂ per mile at the tailpipe. Lower emissions generally track higher fuel economy.

How to read these numbers

EPA figures come from standardized laboratory test cycles and are the same estimates shown on the vehicle's window sticker. Your real-world mileage depends on driving style, conditions, fuel grade, and maintenance. Use combined MPG and annual fuel cost to compare vehicles fairly.

Other Mazda MX-5 model years

Similar two-seaters to compare

Frequently asked questions

What is the MPG of the 2012 Mazda MX-5?
The 2012 Mazda MX-5 gets an EPA-estimated 22 MPG city, 27 MPG highway, and 24 MPG combined.
How much does it cost to fuel the 2012 Mazda MX-5 per year?
The EPA estimates about $3,150 per year in fuel for the 2012 Mazda MX-5, based on 15,000 miles of driving per year at recent average fuel prices.
What engine and transmission does the 2012 Mazda MX-5 have?
This 2012 Mazda MX-5 configuration uses a 2-liter 4-cylinder engine with Manual 5-spd transmission and Rear-Wheel Drive.