Model Tested: 2019 Mazda Miata MX-5 Club RF
Engine:2.0-liter I-4, 181-horsepower 151 lb-ft torque
Transmission: 6-speed manual transmission, rear-wheel-drive
EPA Rating: 26-mpg city, 34-mpg highway, 29-mpg combined
Base Price: $32,345
As Tested: $38,955
Performance:
Great lively performance
Very athletic, nimble
Excellent for darting through traffic
Most fun on winding country roads
Excellent fuel economy—our best was 38.2-mpg highway
Blind spot monitor a very useful necessity
Smooth 6-speed manual transmission and clutch
Hill Hold a necessity on steep city hills
Great brakes
Firm, but pleasant enough highway ride
Comfort:
Comfortable once you’re in
Not much extra room
Passenger has less legroom than driver
Very low stance requires flexibility for entry/exit
Retractable hardtop provides great foul weather comfort
Utility:
Very limited interior storage
No glovebox or door bins
Wind blocker for when the top is retracted
Reasonable size trunk
WOW Factors:
Retractable roof greatly increases usefulness
Very fun to drive
Sharp styling
Excellent fuel economy
Whines:
Snug interior
Very limited interior small items storage
Small sun visors
Bottom Line:
This was our second turn in a 2019 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF and the things we liked the first time we liked even more. Our first time whines remained constant. The fun factor is tough to beat. This fourth generation Miata has 30 years of refinement and it shows in the quality, fit, finish, comfort, and performance levels. Its deluxe go kart personality remains, but it’s refined and pleasant to drive for long periods. The RF retractable top is great—it makes the Miata an all weather car. The main negatives are due to the compact interior. The seats are comfortable and supportive, but there isn’t room for extraneous stuff. If you’re fine with traveling light the 2019 Mazda
MX-5 RF is tremendous fun at an affordable price.
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