Mazda MX-5 Miata RF Overview
Mazda sent a Miata RF my way in August, giving me the chance to put this car through the paces. It wasn’t my first time behind the wheel of a Miata, but I hadn’t driven an RF before. Just to make clear: the Miata has long come with a soft-touch convertible roof. In more recent years, the manufacturer added the RF, a hard-top convertible that I believe offers the better choice of the two. That said, the hardtop adds just over $8,000 to the price, putting this near $40,000 car out of the affordable range for some shoppers.
For 35 years, the Miata has delivered something few manufacturers offer: a reasonably priced two-seater with all the flair of Italian models of yore. As always, power is delivered to the rear wheels. A naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine works with either a six-speed manual gearbox or a six-speed automatic transmission to move the Miata.
If you’re a driving enthusiast, only the manual will do. For people who want to be seen, the automatic is the choice.
The current Mazda Miata, known as the MX-5, reflects a design philosophy centered on the concept of “Jinba Ittai,” or the seamless connection between driver and car. This philosophy is evident in both the exterior and interior design of the Miata, where simplicity, elegance, and function come together to create a car that is both visually striking and deeply functional.
Exterior Construct
The Miata’s exterior design is a study in sleek minimalism, with every line and curve serving a purpose. The car’s compact and purposeful proportions convey a sense of agility and readiness. A low, wide stance hints at the Miata’s dynamic capabilities, while the long hood and short overhangs emphasize its classic sports car silhouette.
Mazda’s Kodo design language, meaning “Soul of Motion,” is clearly visible in the Miata’s flowing surfaces and sculpted body lines. These features create a sense of movement even when the car is still. The front fascia, with its expressive headlights and bold grille, gives the Miata a focused, determined look that aligns perfectly with its sporty nature.
If you see the pretty Japanese lady face at first glance, that’s a look you won’t unsee.
When comparing the soft-top and retractable fastback (RF) models, the differences in design become apparent. The soft-top Miata stays true to the classic roadster experience, with a lightweight fabric roof that can be manually lowered or raised with ease. This simplicity adds to the car’s back-to-basics appeal, where the focus is on the joy of open-top driving.
In contrast, the RF model adds a layer of sophistication. Its power-retractable hardtop offers a more refined appearance with a coupe-like profile when the top is up. The RF’s angular roofline gives it a distinct look, blending the open-air experience with the security and quietness of a hardtop.
See Also — Mazda CX-30: Refined and Pricey
