Mazda used the New York Auto Show earlier this year to debut their new MX-5 RF. Mazda will introduce this vehicle for the 2017 model year. Furthermore, it is a lightly modified “retractable fastback” version of Mazda’s successful sports model Miata or MX-5. The 2017 Mazda MX-5 RF should be a worthy addition to Mazda’s luxury lineup.
Mazda reasoned that combining a sports car with a hard top convertible would broaden their market. Mazda is obviously well-known for producing reliable vehicles. However, their desire to succeed in the luxury market has grown in recent years. Mazda has now set the goal of continuing to produce high-quality lower-priced vehicles as well as more premium vehicles. A significant factor is that Mazda vehicles are priced competitively with luxury brands such as Porsche, Genesis, and Lotus.
Exterior design
The body of the 2017 Mazda MX-5 RF is nearly identical to that of the Mazda Miata. The main distinction is, of course, the fastback retractable roof, which significantly alters the car’s appearance. Despite the fact that many car manufacturers have created convertibles from existing models in the past, this is one of the few fastback hard-tops available. When the roof is closed, the MX-5 RF has a true coupe appearance, which is ideal for this model. Particularly since the roof flows into the rear window in a lovely curve.
A noticeable long hood and the curved body lines of Mazda’s KODO design language are also present. The latter has already resulted in some fantastic end-products, so we would greatly appreciate it sticking around in the coming years. Despite the design language, the MX-5 RF‘s exterior is not as curvy and rounded as the Alfa Romeo 4C Spider.
The 2017 Mazda MX-5 RF will be available in eight exterior colors, including Machine Grey. This is a new color that will appear on additional Mazda models that use the KODO design language.
Interior design
The interior is identical to that of the standard MX-5 Miata. While the rest of the interior features remain the same, Nappa Brown Leather will be available as an option. The clean, driver-directed center stack will be enhanced by a seven-inch touch screen. The remarkable round air vents will return, as will the lightly sporty format that is so Miata.
The standard audio system will have four speakers, as well as a radio, USB, and AUX input. A six-speaker audio system with radio, CD, USB, and Bluetooth Audio streaming is available on a higher trim level. The highest trim level includes a BOSE sound system as standard.
Engine specs
The 2017 Mazda MX-5 RF will be available in the United States of America with a single engine. This is the 155-horsepower 2.0-liter SKYACTIV-G four-cylinder engine with Variable Valve Timing. There are two transmission options: a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic.
In Europe and Asia, the MX-5 RF will be available with a 1.5-liter version of the SKYACTIV-G four-cylinder engine. This engine produces 129 horsepower and is only available with a manual transmission. The top speed is 132 mph (214 kph).
Tech specs
The software that controls the infotainment system is known as MZD Connect. The lowest trim level of the European 2017 Mazda MX-5 RF does not include an infotainment screen. The infotainment screen is controlled by the HMI-Commander rotary knob.
The i-ACTIVSENSE package is optional but highly recommended. It has a plethora of active safety features. Adaptive Front Lighting System, which directs the headlights in the direction you’re steering, is one of the active safety features. There’s also High Beam Control and Mazda Radar Cruise Control, which tracks the vehicle in front of you. There is also Rear Vehicle Monitoring, Lane Departure Warning, and Forward Obstruction Warning. By automatically braking, Smart City Brake Support and Smart Brake Support help to avoid collisions.
The infotainment system supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Price and sale date
The 2017 MX-5 Miata RF Club starts at $31,555 in the United States, the Grand Touring at $32,620, and the Launch Edition at $33,720. Prices in Europe (Germany) start around €30,000.