The Mazda MX-5 RF is a product that has been highly anticipated by some members of the CAR team because of its fresh approach to one of our favourite roadsters. Finally, it’s available in South Africa but it seems that the manual option is nowhere to be seen.
This means that the RF’s (retractable fastback) naturally aspirated 2,0-litre Skyactiv engine will only be available with the six-speed torque converter found throughout the Mazda lineup which is odd considering that the MX-5 has always focused on a very interactive driving experience. Those who want a manual ‘box can still get it in the soft-top.
The MX-5 RF Automatic will cost R532 800 (R91 000 more than the Roadster) and come standard with a limited slip differential, a nine-speaker Bose audio system, lane departure warning and blind spot detection. This purchase is backed up with a three-year unlimited km factory warranty and three-year service plan.
The power output for this engine remains at 118 kW and 200 N.m of torque but seeing as this car is slightly heavier than the roadster, it may just be a bit slower as well. On a whole, the RF aims to be a leisurely variant to the roadster as the double-wishbone and multilink suspension have been tuned to make it’s ride smoother and softer.
The roof itself takes 13 seconds to complete its cycle from the moment the button is pressed. When the roof is retracted, the RF maintains its 127 dm3 boot capacity found in the Roadster as well.
