Mazda MX-5 Miata RF

The RF configuration is available in two Mazda MX-5 Miata models: the Club and the Grand Touring. The Miata MX-5 RF is one of the handsomest sports cars on the market. Its rakish headlights, wide shield-like grille, tight bumper, and bulging fenders make it look lean and mean from the front, while a long hood and short trunk give it a racy, forward-thrusting profile. The hardtop adds a touch of sleekness and elegance to the car and serves practical functions such as reducing noise and improving security. It can be raised and lowered at the touch of a button and doesn't affect trunk space.

The 2019 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF gets its power from an upgraded 2.0-liter inline-four engine that serves up 181 horsepower, which is a 26-horsepower increase over the previous engine. With improved intake and exhaust ports and a throttle that provides 28 percent more airflow, the engine can spin up to 7,200 rpm with no issue. It works with a smooth-shifting six-speed manual transmission or optionally a six-speed automatic. The MX-5 Miata can accelerate to 60 mph from a standstill in an impressive 5.7 seconds.

Few cars out there are as fun to drive as the new Mazda MX-5 Miata RF. It offers the same level of thrill as cars that are two or three times more expensive. While it doesn't have a lot of outright speed, it more than makes up for it with a progressive feel and great precision. Its sharp handling and low ride height enable it to negotiate curvy roads and acute corners with exceptional composure. It also rides smoothly over uneven surfaces. The Club model comes with stiffer springs, larger front strut tower, and a rear limited-slip differential for better performance. The Grand Touring offers the same hardware as an option on models with a manual transmission.

The Mazda MX-5 Miata RF can accommodate two people comfortably. You and your passenger will get plenty of legroom and headroom and feel comfortable and relaxed in the cushy, supportive seats. Overall, the cabin is well-designed and features plenty of soft-touch materials. Additionally, the MX-5 Miata comes standard with a 7-inch Mazda Connect infotainment system, Bluetooth, two USB ports, and a six-speaker sound system. Optional tech features include satellite radio, navigation, and a nine-speaker Bose sound system.

The only notable standard safety feature you'll find in the 2019 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF is a rearview camera. However, the car has many optional driver-assistance technologies, including automatic headlights, automatic emergency braking, traffic-sign recognition, blind-spot monitoring, lane-departure alert, and rear cross-traffic warning.