Power-folding retractable hardtop available (RF model)
2019 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF review: Our expert's take
By Brian Normile
There’s a half-joke among automotive enthusiasts that the answer to any car-choice question is always “Miata.” The recently introduced Mazda Miata with a retractable fastback RF gets similar updates to the traditional soft-top convertible version for 2019, including a slightly increased price: Club models now start at $33,240 with a six-speed manual transmission and $33,840 with a six-speed automatic, both increasing by $435. Grand Touring models of the MX-5 Miata increase $585 to $34,230 with the manual and $35,305 with the auto. All Mazda MX-5 Miata prices include an $895 destination fee.
The biggest news for this Mazda, however, is the increase in power from the Miata’s engine. Its SkyActiv 2.0-liter four-cylinder makes the same 181 horsepower and 151 lb-ft of torque as the convertible — a 17 percent horsepower increase from previous model years. Additional new features include a required-by-law standard backup camera across all trims and, for the first time, a standard tilt/telescoping steering wheel. Some MX-5 engineers purportedly resisted this change because of the added weight and only relented after steel parts in the steering column were replaced with aluminum to offset the increase.
Newly available options packages on the MX-5 Miata RF include a GT-S Package, available on Grand Touring models with the six-speed manual, adding a front-shock tower brace, a limited-slip rear differential and Bilstein dampers for an extra $750. MX-5 Miata club models can now be equipped with Brembo brakes and BBS Miata wheels for $3,770; bump that up to $4,670 and Mazda will throw in Recaro bucket seats along with the MX-5’s brake and wheel updates. The Recaros can’t be had on their own, and both the brake/wheel and brake/wheel/seat upgrades are only available on Mazda Miata models equipped with a manual transmission.
You may have noticed that no factory performance options are available for automatic-transmission-equipped models. Take the not at all subtle hint and get the manual if you’re able.
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Road Test Editor Brian Normile is a reviewer, dog owner and Liverpool FC fan. His first car was a 1997 Toyota 4Runner.
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Bought this car for my wife, hoping I'd get to drive it now and then. I surely would have preferred the 6 speed but it is hers after all. We have been considering a Miata for years but I always had a problem with the lack of security of the softop model.This car is great driving machine. The power to weight ratio is as good as it gets. Comfortable, excellent BOSE stereo, beautiful inside and out. The Grand Touring amenities are as good as it gets.
Rating breakdown (out of 5):
Comfort5.0
Interior design5.0
Performance5.0
Value for the money5.0
Exterior styling5.0
Reliability5.0
Purchased a Used car
Used for Having fun
Does recommend this car
4 people out of 4 found this review helpful. Did you?
The color is amazing. Soul Red Crystal Metallic with a cream color interior. A true roadster. I love the retractable had top. The engine is a engineering marvel.
Rating breakdown (out of 5):
Comfort5.0
Interior design5.0
Performance5.0
Value for the money5.0
Exterior styling5.0
Reliability5.0
Purchased a Used car
Used for Having fun
Does recommend this car
3 people out of 3 found this review helpful. Did you?