The Miata RF uses the same engine as the roadster, a 2-liter four-cylinder pumping out 155hp. We’ve said this with the roadster and we’re going to say it with the RF as well. It may not sound like much but trust us the Miata RF is still lightweight and can get from 0-60mph in 6.1 seconds which is only 0.3 seconds slower than the roadster. We found it to be impressive regardless of the extra weight of the folding metal roof adds on. What we found even more impressive is that despite not having tons of torque available at low revs, the engine still revs sweetly and really does shine through when driving in tight corners and bends. It helps give you more confidence where it matters the most, you can’t get this type of thrill from Audi, BMW or Mercedes.
Driving the Miata is a unique driving experience in which we will never forget. The steering feedback is so linear and responsive that it can make many expensive options look overpriced. The chassis is the sweet spot on the Miata, we were able to sling it into corners and bends with pure confidence and with the amount of horsepower the engine produced it didn’t feel underpowered. Some will say that a turbo engine would be nice but we say the turbo engine is best ditched because this engine is just silky smooth and revs so sweetly. There is some wind noise that intrudes into the cabin as well as some road noise but it is far from a deal breaker.
The interior doesn’t feel as cramped as you’d expect a small roadster to feel. The driver and passenger seats both offer plenty of support and adjust ability. You won’t feel snugged inside the cabin with the roof up either, although taller drivers may want to test out headroom with the top up to see if they are still comfortable. Over the shoulder visibility isn’t as good as the roadster while overall visibility outward to the rear is a little compromised but luckily there is parking sensors to help take the sting out of that. The Miata really isn’t a large car to begin with so you shouldn’t struggle much at all parking it. The infotainment system is actually quite easy to use with many of the menus easy to find but it can be a bit distracting while on the go. Also, the materials used inside of the cabin feel top-notch. Something you would expect from Mazda and after all they do have some of the best interiors for their price range. The boot space is adequate, but let’s face it people aren’t buying this car for practicality.
The standard Club trim comes with LED headlights, leather-wrapped shift knob, sports tuned suspension and power retractable fastback roof. You’ll have to step up to the Grand Touring trim to get auto on/off headlights, automatic climate control and Bose premium audio system. Picking between the two trims depends on the depths of your wallet. The Grand Touring seems pretty pricey on paper but offers the most standard features to back up the higher asking price. The RF isn’t as noisy as the roadster and should appeal to those who may want the added security of a folding metal roof rather than a fabric one. Ditch the automatic and go right for six-speed manual as it’s cheaper and makes the most of the engine’s overall horsepower output.
The Miata is one of those vehicles you have to test drive or own before you go to your grave. It’s really a special vehicle that every driving enthusiasts will love; pure driving pleasure that’s simple and yet elegant. Bravo Mazda!
Likes: It handles like a dream. Engine doesn’t have much oomph but it makes up for that with excellent driving dynamics. Low running costs.
Dislikes: It’s somewhat more compromised than the roadster version.
Our pick: Go right for the Grand Touring trim. The price difference between that and the Club is a mere $1k difference. You get more standard features and plenty to rave about, as long as you ditch the auto gearbox.
1 comment:
I GOTTA have this car!
Post a Comment