Mazda MX5-RF Review

The MX-5 RF is your classic MX-5 – just with a bit more jazz around the edges. But why? Keep on reading to find out.

It is the coupe-cabriolet version of Mazda’s endlessly charming little roadster, and it makes even the dullest commute feel like you’re living out a low-budget car advert. The RF bit stands for Retractable Fastback, which is Mazda-speak for “it’s still a convertible, just a bit posher-looking, and you’ll feel fancier doing it.”

Power and Performance

Under the bonnet, you’ll find a 2.0-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine producing 184 horsepower and 205 Nm of torque. That’s enough to get the featherweight Mazda from 0 to 62 mph in 6.5 seconds, which doesn’t sound mental, but the thing only weighs about 1,140 kg – so it feels quicker than it is. Top speed? 137 mph, which is more than enough for something the size of a Tesco trolley.

It is rear-wheel drive, has a manual gearbox as standard, and it corners like it’s on rails. The Mazda doesn’t just drive well – it communicates. It’s like the car is chatting with you every time you turn the wheel or lift off.

Cabin and Practicality

You don’t buy or lease an MX-5 for practicality, and Mazda’s been refreshingly honest about that. The cabin is tight, the boot is laughable at 127 litres, and taller drivers will feel like they’re auditioning for a clown car. But it’s built well, with soft-touch materials, supportive seats, and a snug, driver-focused layout.

Tech includes a seven-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, heated seats, and cruise control – just enough to stop you feeling like you’ve time-travelled back to 2005. The roof folds electrically in about 13 seconds, and you can do it on the move, as long as you’re not going more than jogging pace.

Price, Rivals, and Verdict

Prices start at around £28,000, depending on trim. That puts it against the Toyota GR86 (if you can find one) and the BMW 2 Series Coupe. But neither offers quite the same sense of connection – or that feeling of pure, analogue joy.

The Mazda isn’t practical. It is not roomy – and it’s not fast in a straight line. But it’s glorious. If you care about driving, the MX-5 RF is still the best excuse to buy a two-seater that makes no sense, which is exactly why it does.