2017 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF: A Refined Retractable Fastback Experience
The 2017 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF (Retractable Fastback) arrived as a sophisticated evolution of the beloved MX-5 Miata, offering a more premium and insulated experience without sacrificing the core driving joy. Building upon the already acclaimed fourth-generation ND chassis, the RF introduced a captivating hardtop design that seamlessly blended the open-air freedom of a convertible with the secure and quiet cabin of a coupe.
Highlights
- Powertrain: The RF is powered by Mazda's lauded 2.0-liter SKYACTIV-G naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine. This engine delivers a spirited 155 horsepower and 148 lb-ft of torque. It's known for its linear power delivery, satisfying throttle response, and a delightful engine note, especially when paired with the available six-speed manual transmission. An optional six-speed automatic transmission was also offered.
- Retractable Fastback Roof: The star of the show is the RF's unique power-operated hardtop. With the touch of a button, the roof retracts and stows away elegantly behind the cabin in a mere 13 seconds, transforming the coupe-like RF into an open-air roadster. This system is a marvel of engineering, maintaining the Miata's characteristic lightweight feel and providing excellent structural rigidity when raised.
- Safety Features: The 2017 Miata RF came equipped with a suite of advanced safety features:
- Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) & Traction Control System (TCS): These systems work together to help prevent skids and loss of traction, enhancing stability and driver control, especially in challenging conditions.
- Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA): ABS prevents wheel lock-up during hard braking, EBD optimizes brake force distribution between the front and rear wheels, and BA automatically applies additional braking force when it detects an emergency stop.
- Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM): This system uses sensors to detect vehicles in your blind spots and provides visual and audible alerts, helping to prevent lane changes into occupied areas.
- Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA): When reversing out of a parking spot, RCTA warns you of approaching traffic from either side, increasing safety and awareness.
- Advanced Airbag System: The RF features front and side-impact airbags for enhanced occupant protection.
- Trims: The 2017 Miata RF was primarily offered in two distinct trims:
- Club: This trim catered to the more performance-oriented driver, often featuring sport-tuned suspension components (like Bilstein shocks), a limited-slip differential, and sometimes sportier interior accents. It offered a more raw and engaging driving experience.
- Grand Touring: This trim emphasized comfort and refinement, typically including features like leather-trimmed seats, automatic climate control, and an upgraded Bose audio system. It provided a more luxurious and relaxed ownership experience.
- Other Notable Aspects:
- Weight Distribution: Like its soft-top sibling, the RF boasts near-perfect 50/50 weight distribution, contributing to its legendary agile handling.
- Driver-Focused Cockpit: The interior is designed around the driver, with intuitive controls, excellent ergonomics, and a focus on the driving experience.
- Exceptional Handling: The RF inherits the MX-5 Miata's renowned chassis, offering sharp steering, minimal body roll, and a feeling of direct connection to the road.
What to Expect
Owning a 2017 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF is typically a rewarding experience for those who appreciate driving dynamics and open-air motoring. The typical ownership experience is characterized by:
- Engaging Driving: Expect a car that is immensely fun to drive, whether on winding backroads or during spirited city drives. The responsive steering, balanced chassis, and rev-happy engine combine to create a truly visceral connection to the road.
- Reliability: Mazda has a strong reputation for building reliable vehicles, and the MX-5 Miata is no exception. With regular maintenance, the 2.0-liter SKYACTIV-G engine and the RF's retractable hardtop mechanism are generally dependable.
- Maintenance: Routine maintenance will include oil changes, filter replacements, tire rotations, and brake inspections. As with any vehicle, keep an eye on fluid levels and tire pressures. The retractable hardtop mechanism may require occasional lubrication of its moving parts, which a dealer can perform during scheduled service.
- Insurance: Insurance costs will vary based on your driving record, location, age, and coverage levels. However, due to the Miata's relatively low horsepower and excellent safety ratings, it's generally not considered an excessively expensive vehicle to insure compared to many sports cars.
Potential Considerations
While the 2017 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF is a highly desirable vehicle, potential buyers should be aware of a few aspects:
- Interior Space: As a two-seater sports car, the interior is compact. While the driver and passenger positions are well-appointed, those seeking ample storage or passenger room will need to look elsewhere.
- Trunk Space: The retractable hardtop mechanism takes up a significant portion of the trunk space when stowed. This limits the practicality for carrying larger luggage or multiple grocery bags.
- Road Noise (with roof down): While the RF is significantly quieter than a soft-top Miata with the roof up, some road and wind noise is to be expected, especially at higher speeds, when the roof is down.
- Ride Comfort: While not overtly harsh, the RF's suspension is tuned for handling. On rougher road surfaces, occupants might experience a firmer ride compared to a more comfort-oriented vehicle.
Overall Summary
The 2017 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF masterfully blended the exhilaration of open-air driving with the refined practicality of a retractable hardtop. It offered a more mature and sophisticated take on the iconic Miata formula, appealing to those who desired a premium coupe experience with the option of effortless top-down motoring. With its engaging powertrain, sharp handling, advanced safety features, and the innovative fastback roof, the RF solidified its position as a standout in the affordable sports car segment, delivering an unforgettable driving experience that remains a joy to own.
