It's the second time I've been chosen for Yabusame (and if you don't know what that is, you're skipping classes). The last time was in 2015, when Mazda invited us to test the Mazda MX-5 ND. We're back in Barcelona and on the same roads, but this time the best-selling roadster in the world presents itself with a retractable hardtop. A “horse” that goes by the name Mazda MX-5 RF.
The Mazda MX-5 RF (Retractable Fastback) is intended to be an elegant proposal aimed at a public looking for a small sporty, convertible and practical in all seasons. But does it retain the spirit of the Mazda MX-5?
There is not much doubt about the potential success of this version, just to analyze the sales results of the previous generation: the MX-5 NC coupé version sold more than the roadster at the end of the model's life cycle.
But this RF is more than a Mazda MX-5 with a hardtop and, if I may say so, barely achieved in the last generation – it just wasn't as stylish as the roadster. The solution found for this RF is killing it and gives it a targa look that turns heads in its wake – trust me, been there done that.
The new retractable top and a series of challenges
In this profound physical change, engineers at the Hiroshima brand had to take into account three important goals: 1) the hardtop had to be light and compact; two) the wheelbase had to be the same and 3) the interior space could by no means be sacrificed.
After having decided to go down a risky path, which would turn this RF into an MX-5 that would never be 100% open, the result is a true work of engineering and design for the delight of the senses.
In convertible mode, operated via a discreet button on the center console (in this version the MX-5 loses the manual lever and the entire hood activation process is 100% electric) the front and center sections of the three-piece roof disappear entirely by behind the seats. All this in 13 seconds and up to 10 km/h, which leads Mazda to claim the title of retractable roof with the fastest opening on the market.
Jinba Ittai and the importance of keeping the spirit intact
(Have you read what Jinba Ittai is? The story goes back to 1 185, you better start now…)While the solution found for the hood was a problem solved, the additional 45 kg of weight felt on the scale led to a series of physical changes to the car. All this so that Jinba Ittai (what we all know is right?…) would not be pinched.
Suspension
In terms of suspension, the Mazda MX-5 RF maintains the scheme of double wishbones at the front and multiple arms at the rear, however, changes were introduced in terms of the adjustment of the front stabilizer bar and the springs, arms and rear stops. The gas pressure of the shock absorbers has also been adjusted to compensate for the extra 45 kg weight of the hood.
Direction
At the end of the day these changes could not affect the Mazda MX-5's characteristic driving feeling. The electric double pinion power steering adopted for the current MX-5 (ND) generation is still present, but it had to be recalibrated to ensure a more linear behavior.According to Mazda, it was necessary to increase the steering assistance to get a better response as soon as we started to turn the steering wheel. The more we turn the steering wheel, the more it reduces assistance.
At the wheel
Two small suitcases and two jackets were enough to practically fill the 127 liters of luggage capacity. The Mazda MX-5's business card remains the same, which means a roadtrip longer than a couple of days, even in summer.
Inside, the problem of storage remains, with practically no place to store objects except in the glove compartment located between the two seats and in a small compartment next to the handbrake, where the smartphone fits… if it's not too big . Something to review in an upcoming update.
The first thing this Samurai on horseback noticed (let's get on with this, so it's good for you to know what Jinba Ittai is…) was the changes the quadrant was targeting. There is a new 4.6 inch color TFT screen located to the left of the rev counter, which replaces a monochrome screen. Apart from that, it's the same old MX-5 and that's exactly what I expected.
With the roof open, after 13 seconds of a movement that amazes everyone who passes by its grace, the feeling is that we are at the wheel of a real roadster. Although it makes us feel slightly more protected, which is far from a negative feeling.
Mazda MX-5 RF SKYACTIV-G 2.0
The first day is spent behind the wheel of the Mazda MX-5 RF SKYACTIV-G 2.0. The 2.0-litre atmospheric engine continues to give us its characteristic power at low rpm, reaching a maximum torque of 200 Nm at 4,600 rpm. Driverless and unladen, this unit with manual transmission (let's ignore that there is now a 6-speed automatic in this engine, ok?) weighs 1,055 kg, which remains an excellent number in this grease war. In this more vitamin-filled version, consumption is above 8 l/100 km.The remaining numbers are also encouraging: 7.5 seconds to complete the sprint from 0 to 100 km/h and 215 km/h of top speed. In addition to greater availability, this block brings the technologies i-stop from Mazda and a version of the energy-generated braking regeneration system i-ELOOP.
Mazda MX-5 RF SKYACTIV-G 1.5
On the 131hp Mazda MX-5 RF SKYACTIV-G 1.5 these numbers are less exciting, but we all know that the MX-5 is more than a spec chart: 150Nm of maximum torque at 4,800rpm, 8.6 seconds for sprint from 0 to 100 km/h and 203 km/h of maximum speed.
The MX-5 SKYACTIV-G 1.5 requires more box work when we want to climb that winding road, which you would expect. However, we are compensated by the interesting metallic sound of this small block. On the other hand, consumption in this engine is lower, with the average being around 7 l/100 km.
Driverless, unladen and with a 6-speed manual gearbox (the only one available) it weighs 1,015 kg.
Is it the right car for me?
It may not be the fastest car you'll drive, but like a real Mazda MX-5 it's fun, agile, balanced and accessible in extreme situations – that's the spirit. Choose a good road, open the roof and let yourself go. If the outside temperature is almost negative as in this first contact, there is no problem: there are heated seats to compensate, a mandatory option.
If you're looking for a versatile convertible at any time of year, with an affordable price, balanced maintenance costs and q.b power, the Mazda MX-5 RF is undoubtedly a proposition to consider. Now you only have one left in the garage. With prices starting below 30 thousand euros, it makes you think…
Consult the price list for the new Mazda MX-5 RF here
