History/Overview
The Mazda MX-5 is one of the last true roadsters left in today’s marketplace. And while a traditional roadster has a soft convertible roof, since 2007 Mazda has expanded the MX-5’s appeal with the option of a folding hard top. Introduced in ’07 as the clumsily named PRHT (power retractable hard top), the newest folding tintop MX-5 is called the RF, which is short for retractable fastback.
What’s New/Key Changes From Last Year
For 2022, the MX-5 RF gets a kinetic posture control system (KPC), which applies gentle braking to the inside rear wheel during speedy cornering for more precise steering accuracy and reduced body roll.
Available Trims
Mazda offers the MX-5 RF in GS-P and GT trims, each of which can be had with a six-speed manual or automatic transmission. The sole engine is a 2.0L four-cylinder that powers the rear wheels.
Standard Features
GS-P trim starts with a limited-slip differential, 17-inch alloy wheels, auto on/off headlights, a 7.0-inch touchscreen, nine-speaker audio, A/C, passive keyless entry, and heated seats.
Safety items include blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, rain-sensing wipers, lane departure warning, and forward collision mitigation.
GT brings traffic sign recognition, auto-dimming driver’s side and rearview mirrors, adaptive headlights, navigation, automatic A/C, and leather seating.
Key Options
A GS-P sport package adds Brembo brakes with red calipers, forged wheels, and Recaro sport seats. GT offers an “exclusive” package of a piano black roof and terra cotta Nappa leather; a Grand Sport pack combines those items with the GS-P’s sport package.
Fuel Economy
Mazda’s fuel consumption estimates for the MX-5 RF are 9.0/6.6 L/100 km (city/highway) with the automatic transmission, and 9.0/7.0 L/100 km with the stickshift.
Competition
The MX-5 RF’s closest competitor these days is the Alfa Romeo 124 Spyder, which is structurally identical (but mechanically and stylistically distinct) to the MX-5; however, the Alfa only comes with a soft roof.
This vehicle has not yet been reviewed
