The 2017 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF is the retractable fastback dreams are made of and maybe even better. It is the top-rated choice for Sports Coupes and Convertibles and has been nothing short of impressive.
Pros and Features. The new RF now makes long drives more manageable, despite its noticeable weight during extreme driving. The RF has a dramatically different styling over its soft -top variant and offers the security of a fixed-roof coupe. According to a review by Car and Driver, the new power-folding targa top operates very similarly to the Porsche 911 Targa's intricate roof.
The 2017 Mazda Miata is actually one of the best options for this year. It is perhaps the best-selling roadster of all time, with its very practical starting price of around $32,000. The vehicle exemplifies the roadster ideal and can be said to be the epitome of the word.
This year's model is undoubtedly better than ever. Its modular platforms and rear-drive chassis are crowd pleasers. The 2.0-liter Skyactiv four-cylinder comes standard in the United States and is a decent and practical choice. The 155 horsepower it produces is more than enough for most people. All-in-all the new Miata packs quite an interesting little two-seater package with an unmatchable price point.
It is also significantly quieter than the regular Miata. In addition, the electrically folding roof does a good job in not reducing the already too tiny trunk space.
Cons. The 2017 Miata RF is significantly heavier than the soft-top. It has slightly less punch due to its heavier weight. It is also inconvenient how only part of the roof stows away. In addition, the teeny tiny trunk is only 4.6 cubic feet. It can hold only a handful of items and little else.
What's New? The 2017 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF is new. The Retractable Fastback is electrically operated and features a stowable hard roof.
Trim Levels and Features. According to a review by Edmunds, the 2017 MX-5 RF Miata comes in two trim levels: Club and Grand Touring. The Club variant comes highly recommended, despite the extra added creature comforts offered with the Grand Touring.
The Club comes in manual only and is the sportiest choice of all with its returned suspension. It also has Bilstein dampers, shock tower brace, and a limited-slip differential. In addition, it has Brembo front brakes and optional BBS wheels
The Grand Touring model has a long list of amenities and convenience features. It comes with heated leather seats, navigation, and automatic climate control. It also has adaptive headlights, lane departure warning, and generally focuses on comfort and safety features. However, some wonder why safety features would be a big selling point on this model in the first place.
Verdict. The 2017 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF is the brand's closest attempt to building a Power Retractable Hardtop. People cannot stop raving about it - the car looks incredible and is a practical option over a Porsche. No other car will come close to its performance at its price point. While its top competitors are technically the Subaru BRZ and Toyota 86, the RF is a fun twist that Mazda has an edge with!
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