Talk about a successful sequel: after the introduction of the MX-5 soft top last year, the new Mazda MX-5 RF with retractable hard-top roof was named 2018 Convertible of the Year during the 2018 Auto123.com Awards ceremony, held this past November 22nd in Toronto. It beat out two other heavyweight finalists in the category, the luxurious Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet and the high-performance Porsche 718 Boxster.
Available starting at $38,800, the MX-5 RF is a small two-seat roadster with a totally unique roof design and engaging Targa-ish styling. This year it’s also lighter, and its roof can be opened or closed in just 13 seconds. Rain, shmain. Combining the advantages of a coupe with the pleasure principle perfected by the MX-5 soft top convertible, the RF version delivers a stunningly gratifying driving experience while staying true to the spirit of Jinba Ittai, symbol of the perfect unity of horse and rider, which has made a legend of the car among driving enthusiasts.
The MX-5 RF is powered by a 2.0L 4-cylinder engine delivering 155 hp via an outstanding manual gearbox or 6-speed automatic transmission. Acceleration is impressive, and the car is a model of equilibrium on the road. Steering is precise, the braking exceptional.
Canadians may reasonably ask, is this Mazda MX-5 practical to own and drive on a daily basis during the winter months? Well, we went out and tested it! Our little test proved to us that its ability to handle winter conditions is a well-kept secret in the domain. Granted, in many situations and in certain parts of the country it may not be the most sensible of choices, but then what is sensible when weighed against the value of a permanent smile glued on your face, which the MX-5 is particularly skilled at producing!
What Mazda has to say about its MX-5 RF…
“The all new Mazda MX-5 RF was designed to reward passionate drivers everywhere. The sophisticated comfort of a luxury sedan can now be found within the athletic styling of an exotic sports car. With subtle touches like interior colour styling that includes swatches of exterior colour and sumptuous touches like the available Nappa leather trimmed upholstery, discover why the MX-5 RF is just as much about class and comfort as it is about exhilaration and performance.”
To learn more about the Mazda MX-5 RF, make sure to check out our review and to consult its specifications. We also have some photos and videos that should bring that smile to the surface…
