2020
Mazda MX-5 Miata RF

Starts at:
$33,045
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New 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF
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NHTSA tested vehicle score
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Available trims

See the differences side-by-side to compare trims.
  • Club Manual
    Starts at
    $33,045
    26 City / 34 Hwy
    MPG
    2
    Seat capacity
    Premium Unleaded I-4
    Engine
    Rear Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • Club Auto
    Starts at
    $33,645
    26 City / 35 Hwy
    MPG
    2
    Seat capacity
    Premium Unleaded I-4
    Engine
    Rear Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • Grand Touring Manual
    Starts at
    $34,425
    26 City / 34 Hwy
    MPG
    2
    Seat capacity
    Premium Unleaded I-4
    Engine
    Rear Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • Grand Touring Auto
    Starts at
    $34,750
    26 City / 35 Hwy
    MPG
    2
    Seat capacity
    Premium Unleaded I-4
    Engine
    Rear Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 100th Anniversary Manual
    Starts at
    $35,425
    26 City / 34 Hwy
    MPG
    2
    Seat capacity
    Premium Unleaded I-4
    Engine
    Rear Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 100th Anniversary Auto
    Starts at
    $35,750
    26 City / 35 Hwy
    MPG
    2
    Seat capacity
    Premium Unleaded I-4
    Engine
    Rear Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs

Photo & video gallery

2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF

Notable features

More active safety features standard
Two-seat rear-wheel-drive roadster
181-hp four-cylinder engine
Six-speed manual or automatic transmission
Power-folding retractable hardtop available (RF model)

The good & the bad

The good

Styling
Handling
Easy top operation
Drivetrain

The bad

Steering feedback could be better
Seats don't hold you in place
Passenger legroom
See all specifications

Expert 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF review

our expert's take
Our expert's take
By Cars.com Editors
Full article
our expert's take

What Is the 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata?

The 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata is powered by a 181-horsepower, 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that works with a standard six-speed manual or optional six-speed automatic transmission. The rear-wheel-drive two-seater comes with a standard manual-folding soft-top; a nifty but pricey RF model has a power-folding retractable hardtop. The MX-5 is built on the same platform as the Fiat 124 Spider, and other rivals include the Toyota 86 and Subaru BRZ.

What’s New on the 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata?

New standard active safety features include low-speed automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning and blind spot warning with rear cross-traffic alert. The midlevel Club trim now comes with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connectivity, while manual-transmission Grand Touring models now have the limited-slip differential, Bilstein shocks and a front shock tower brace from the Club trim. A gray soft-top and red Nappa leather interior are also available for the Grand Touring. 

What Features in the 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata Are Most Important?

The MX-5 Miata’s most important features are the kind you can’t check off on a list of specs: seductive looks, brisk acceleration, crisp handling, a convertible top that’s easy to fold and raise, and the ability to make you smile every time you get behind the wheel.

Should I Buy the 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata?

If you can afford nearly $28,000 for a highly impractical car, go for it. Your reward will be the enjoyment of driving it.

2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF review: Our expert's take

What Is the 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata?

The 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata is powered by a 181-horsepower, 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that works with a standard six-speed manual or optional six-speed automatic transmission. The rear-wheel-drive two-seater comes with a standard manual-folding soft-top; a nifty but pricey RF model has a power-folding retractable hardtop. The MX-5 is built on the same platform as the Fiat 124 Spider, and other rivals include the Toyota 86 and Subaru BRZ.

What’s New on the 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata?

New standard active safety features include low-speed automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning and blind spot warning with rear cross-traffic alert. The midlevel Club trim now comes with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connectivity, while manual-transmission Grand Touring models now have the limited-slip differential, Bilstein shocks and a front shock tower brace from the Club trim. A gray soft-top and red Nappa leather interior are also available for the Grand Touring. 

What Features in the 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata Are Most Important?

The MX-5 Miata’s most important features are the kind you can’t check off on a list of specs: seductive looks, brisk acceleration, crisp handling, a convertible top that’s easy to fold and raise, and the ability to make you smile every time you get behind the wheel.

Should I Buy the 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata?

If you can afford nearly $28,000 for a highly impractical car, go for it. Your reward will be the enjoyment of driving it.

Available cars near you

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Factory warranties

Basic
3 years / 36,000 miles
Corrosion
5 years
Powertrain
5 years / 60,000 miles
Roadside Assistance
3 years

Compare similar vehicles

Select cars to compare for more detailed info.
  • 2020
    4.9
    Mazda MX-5 Miata RF
    Starts at
    $33,045
    2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF
    26 City / 34 Hwy
    MPG
    2
    Seat capacity
    Premium Unleaded I-4
    Engine
    Rear-wheel drive
    Drivetrain
    Compare
  • 2023
    5.0
    Mazda MX-5 Miata RF
    Starts at
    $35,750
    2023 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF
    26 City / 34 Hwy
    MPG
    2
    Seat capacity
    Premium Unleaded I-4
    Engine
    Rear-wheel drive
    Drivetrain
    Compare
  • 2019
    4.9
    FIAT 124 Spider
    Starts at
    $25,440
    2019 FIAT 124 Spider
    25 City / 36 Hwy
    MPG
    2
    Seat capacity
    Intercooled Turbo Premium Unleaded I-4
    Engine
    Rear-wheel drive
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  • 2023
    5.0
    Subaru BRZ
    Starts at
    $28,595
    2023 Subaru BRZ
    20 City / 27 Hwy
    MPG
    4
    Seat capacity
    Premium Unleaded H-4
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  • 2023
    5.0
    Mazda MX-5 Miata
    Starts at
    $28,050
    2023 Mazda MX-5 Miata
    26 City / 34 Hwy
    MPG
    2
    Seat capacity
    Premium Unleaded I-4
    Engine
    Rear-wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    Compare
  • Compare more options
    Use our comparison tool to add any vehicle of your choice and see a full list of specifications and features side-by-side.
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Consumer reviews

100% of drivers recommend this car
4.9 / 5
Based on 15 reviews
Write a review
Comfort 4.5
Interior 4.9
Performance 4.9
Value 4.9
Exterior 4.9
Reliability 5.0

Most recent

  • By TimS from Oswego, IL
    Owns this car
    May 19, 2021

    Most entertaining car I’ve ever owned!

    I love this car! We have wanted a two seat convertible for some time and this MX-5 fits our needs perfectly. We are so glad we chose the RF model as the targa roof gives you the convertible option with very little wind buffeting. The handling is a blast, kind of like driving a go-cart!
    • Purchased a New car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    1 person out of 1 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • By alexander from Fayetteville
    Owns this car
    April 7, 2021

    Fun to drive

    A lot of fun driving this car, super fast and stylish. I expect to have a great summer experience driving everywhere on this convertible. ;-)
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    1 person out of 2 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • By Char
    Owns this car
    March 19, 2021

    Fun car to drive around

    If you do not need a lot room...this car is great. It’s super fun to drive. The soft to- comfortable is great to drive with the top up or down. Awesome stereo too.
    • Purchased a New car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    1 person out of 1 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • By Joef. from Levittown, NY
    Owns this car
    January 24, 2021

    Satisfaction Guaranteed

    This car makes you feel alive behind the wheel. If you enjoy a great shifting manual gear box, great handling suspension, and a responsive street car with an open air option then look no further.
    • Purchased a New car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • By Dan D from Santa Clara
    Owns this car
    December 14, 2020

    Fun little go kart

    This car isn't for everyone. Yes, it is small and has zero cargo storage. That's not what you buy this car for. I'm all smiles while taking every turn on any winding road. It makes me look forward to clear skies. I'm actually surprised by how peppy this little thing is.
    • Purchased a New car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    0 people out of 1 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • By Debra B from New Smyrna Beach, Florida
    Owns this car
    November 4, 2020

    Beautiful Car

    This car is so much fun to drive, and it’s well built. The car surpasses vehicles, that cost a lot more. It’s beautiful LOVE LOVE, I constantly get complements on it.
    • Purchased a New car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • By Photobill from League City
    Owns this car
    September 21, 2020

    A real head turner.

    This is a very fun car to drive. Handles great!!! A 6 speed manual really makes this car stand out in performance. The hard top is very nice to have instead of the soft top. And I have the 1st model miata made. A 1990 in excellent condition for sale.
    • Purchased a New car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • By PapaDoc from Mt. Pleasant SC
    Owns this car
    September 5, 2020

    The best sports car for the money

    Hundreds of smiles per mile. Enough room for two people and a sandwich. As long as it is a small sandwich. Otherwise a phenomenal auto. Have the manual transmission which is just more fun than an adult should have. RF top is special. Wanted a Miata for years and this is as close to perfection as you will get.
    • Purchased a New car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • By Michael from HADDAM
    Owns this car
    August 18, 2020

    Most Fun Car I Have Ever Owned

    While I am a bit cramped, full disclosure I am 6'-2", it is very livable and the absolute joy of driving this car overcomes and minor shortcomings. The appearance, fit/finish, power, handling, etc. are all fantastic and I am fully satisfied with this car, frankly it exceeds all expectations (except interior space...)
    • Purchased a New car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 3.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • By DenisePA from Williamsport, PA
    Owns this car
    August 12, 2020

    Love this car

    Only two weeks as mine - great driving and handling! I live in PA, purchased the car at Mazda of SC, transported it here. Peter from the dealership was awesome - the car is everything I wanted.
    • Purchased a New car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    0 people out of 1 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • By Go Cubs Go from San Francisco, CA
    Owns this car
    August 2, 2020

    Sublime

    Saw the exact car I bought at the SF car show in 2019. Can’t believe I actually own one. Every car I’ve owned has been a practical choice. This one was purely for fun. Can’t believe I did it (can’t believe my wife let me). This gift will keep on giving.
    • Purchased a New car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • By BrandonAVL from Asheville NC
    Owns this car
    July 18, 2020

    Most fun car I’ve ever owned!

    Traded in my 2011 Camaro LT and have absolutely no regrets! Feels just as fast and handles way better, nothing I’ve ever driven handles backroads like this car does! Interior is comfortable enough (needs lumbar support) I’m 6’1” and slender and I fit in with about and inch of headroom. Apple carplay/andriod auto is the saving grace of the infotainment, super glad they added that in for this model year. Absolutely the best new sports car under $35k in my opinion!
    • Purchased a New car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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Mazda dealers near you

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FAQ

What trim levels are available for the 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF?

The 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF is available in 3 trim levels:

  • 100th Anniversary (2 styles)
  • Club (2 styles)
  • Grand Touring (2 styles)

What is the MPG of the 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF?

The 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF offers up to 26 MPG in city driving and 34 MPG on the highway. These figures are based on EPA mileage ratings and are for comparison purposes only. The actual mileage will vary depending on vehicle options, trim level, driving conditions, driving habits, vehicle maintenance, and other factors.

What are some similar vehicles and competitors of the 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF?

The 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF compares to and/or competes against the following vehicles:

Is the 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF reliable?

The 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF has an average reliability rating of 5.0 out of 5 according to cars.com consumers. Find real-world reliability insights within consumer reviews from 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF owners.

Is the 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF a good Convertible?

Below are the cars.com consumers ratings for the 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF. 100.0% of drivers recommend this vehicle.

4.9 / 5
Based on 15 reviews
  • Comfort: 4.5
  • Interior: 4.9
  • Performance: 4.9
  • Value: 4.9
  • Exterior: 4.9
  • Reliability: 5.0

Mazda MX-5 Miata RF history

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