Mazda MX-5 ND RF

Mazda MX-5 ND RF

The Mazda MX-5 ND, launched in 2015, is the fourth generation of the world's best-selling two-seat sports car — a car that has accumulated over one million sales since the original NA debuted in 1989. The RF (Retractable Fastback) variant, introduced in 2017, adds a power-folding targa roof that transforms the MX-5's silhouette from a classic roadster into an elegant fastback coupe, offering the best of both worlds for owners who want open-air driving with the security and refinement of a hardtop.

The ND generation was designed under Mazda's 'Kodo' design language and guided by the 'gram strategy' — a comprehensive weight-reduction program that made the ND lighter than the outgoing NC despite meeting significantly more stringent modern crash and emissions regulations. Every component was scrutinized for weight savings, resulting in a car that weighs just over 1,000 kg in soft-top form and approximately 1,111 kg as the RF — remarkably close to the original 1989 NA Miata.

The RF's power-folding roof is an engineering marvel. The three-piece mechanism raises, separates, and stows behind the seats in approximately 13 seconds, and can be operated at speeds up to 10 km/h. When closed, the RF has a dramatically different appearance to the soft-top — the flowing fastback roofline creates a shape reminiscent of classic coupes like the Toyota 2000GT or Jaguar E-Type coupe. When the roof is retracted, only the rear buttresses remain, giving the RF a distinctive targa appearance.

Power comes from Mazda's SkyActiv-G 2.0-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine, producing 184 hp at 7,000 rpm and 151 lb-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm in its current specification (originally 155 hp at launch, upgraded in 2019). The engine features a remarkably high 13.0:1 compression ratio, Mazda's exhaust-pulse-optimized 4-2-1 exhaust manifold, and cavity pistons that allow this high compression without detonation on regular fuel. The engine revs eagerly to its 7,500 rpm redline, delivering its power with a linear, naturally aspirated character that rewards rev-hungry driving.

The chassis is the MX-5's defining strength. The double-wishbone front suspension and multilink rear — all with aluminium components for weight saving — provide the kind of communicative, progressive handling that has defined the Miata experience for over three decades. The steering is light, precise, and full of feel. The 50:50 weight distribution, low polar moment of inertia (aided by the engine being positioned behind the front axle), and rear-wheel drive layout create a car that is supremely balanced and predictable at the limit.

The MX-5 ND has received widespread critical acclaim as one of the most enjoyable driver's cars available at any price. What it lacks in outright speed — 0-60 mph in 6.3 seconds is respectable but not explosive — it more than compensates for in engagement, balance, and the sheer pleasure of driving at legal speeds. The RF variant adds a layer of refinement and visual sophistication that has broadened the MX-5's appeal without compromising its essential character.

In Japan, the MX-5 is sold as the 'Mazda Roadster' and is also available with a 1.5-litre SkyActiv-G engine that is even more rev-happy and weighs less, though this smaller engine is not offered in North America. The ND continues Mazda's commitment to the lightweight, affordable sports car formula that has defined the Miata since 1989.