By Riyad Jaffer
Former South African motor racer, Attorney and car enthusiast
The Mazda MX-5 RF is based on the fourth-generation MX-5 Roadster Coupe, which has won more than 280 automotive awards around the world and became the first model to win both World Car of the Year and World Car Design of the Year in 2016. It is dedicated to the past, present and future of the world’s all-time best selling roadster.
The new roadster rooftop closes and opens in 13 seconds at the flip of a switch, even when the car is moving at up to 10km/h.
The Mazda MX-5 RF high revving engine is available in a 2.0-litre SKYACTIV petrol engine with maximum power at 118kw @ 6000rpm, this is mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission. The engine sounds great thanks to its lion like roar however it does require more low-down torque. Fuel consumption figures obtained were around the 9.2litres / 100km mark. Model additions include the Adaptive Front-lighting System (AFS), Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM). Advanced safety features include a navigation system and the automatic shift switch. A roll cage would be nice though (#justsaying).
Standard features on the Mazda MX 5 RF are the following: Advanced keyless entry, Advanced keyless push-button engine start, Airbags SRS: front (driver and passenger) and side, Bluetooth® hands-free phone and audio capability
Retractable Hardtop, Climate control air-conditioning, Cruise control, Daytime running lamps (LED), Emergency Stop Signal (ESS), Headlamps (LED), Headlamps auto on/off function, Adaptive Front-lighting system (AFS), Hill Launch Assist (HLA), I-Stop Standard, Leather seats, Leather-wrapped: steering wheel, handbrake handle and gearshift knob, Limited Slip Differential, Internet radio integration (Pandora®, Stitcher™ and Aha™), Multi-function Commander Control, Navigation system, Black coloured mirrors, Premium Bose® 203 watt amplifier with 9 speakers, Rain-sensing wipers , Rear-view mirror with auto dimming function, 7-inch touchscreen display (MZD Connect), 17-inch Alloy wheels, Lane Departure Warning (LDW), AT Shift switch and finally Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM). The body color lineup consists of six colors to highlight the MX-5 RF's unique styling. Soul Red Metallic, Ceramic Metallic, Arctic White, Crystal White Pearl, Blue Reflex, Machine Grey and Jet Black. The trunk's capacity of 127 litres is almost the same as that of the soft-top MX-5. It can accommodate two carry-on bags (within 55 cm x 40 cm x 25 cm). A multi-purpose box in the trunk can be used to store tools and other items. The soft-top model's double-wishbone and multilink suspension, in the front and rear respectively, have been tuned for a smooth, quality ride that befits a hardtop. Like all roadsters, the Mazda MX 5 roadster handles well thanks to its rigid sports car heritage.
The Mazda MX-5 RF is priced at R538 200 and is backed up by a 3-year unlimited kilometer factory warranty, a 3-year service plan, a 3-year roadside assistance and a 5-year Corrosion Warranty are also included.
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