The Mazda MX-5 Miata isn’t just the 2016 World Car of the Year. It is, in fact, the most purist sports car money can buy nowadays. But out there, all across this big blue planet, some individuals don’t like it. And this is where the MX-5 RF steps in.
Compared to the regular version of the fourth-generation MX-5 Miata, the RF is more of a grand tourer thanks to its automated targa-style retractable roof. The three large pieces of folding metal make the MX-5 RF a little quieter and refined compared to its sportier brother. Thus, the 2017 Mazda MX-5 RF has the appeal of a cruiser rather than that of a traditional open-top sports car.
In the United States of America, the peeps at Mazda have announced that 1,000 vehicles are destined for the most loyal customers. Dubbed MX-5 RF Launch Edition, this pretty little thing here comes with all the bells and whistles that you can think of in this segment and in this price range. Machine Gray Metallic paint job, Auburn Nappa leather seat and interior trim, a hand-painted black roof panel, Grand Touring specification, the whole nine yards.
The only thing the customers has to decide about is the transmission. Be it the SkyActiv-MT six-speed manual or the SkyActiv-AT six-speed automatic, the 2017 Mazda MX-5 RF Launch Edition is powered by a familiar 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. The SkyActiv-G unit is good for 155 horsepower and 148 lb-ft from 4,600 rpm on 87 octane premium unleaded gasoline.
Slated to arrive at North American dealerships in the first quarter of 2017, pricing for the Launch Edition will be announced in the following weeks. The preorders will open in due time to “a select group of customers who will be notified via email and will have a specific window of time to preorder the MX-5 RF Launch Edition before ordering opens to the general public.”
Other than the exclusive color combo and limited production numbers, the MX-5 RF Launch Edition also comes with a custom made 42 millimeter Tourneau watch to complement the car. Pretty wicked if you ask me.
After a 1:43 scale model of a Ferrari 250 GTO sparked Mircea's interest for cars when he was a kid, an early internship at Top Gear sealed his career path. He's most interested in muscle cars and American trucks, but he takes a passing interest in quirky kei cars as well. Full profile
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