Used Mazda MX-5 RF 2016-present review

Few cars reach iconic status but the mega-successful Mazda MX-5 is definitely one of them. Over four generations this charming soft-top has won the hearts of all who’ve either owned or driven one, with an unbeatable combination of fresh-air driving fun and pocket-friendly affordability.

The third-generation version introduced a folding hard-top roof into the equation, and it quickly went on to become the bigger seller. When this fourth generation model appeared, smaller, lighter and more nimble than the car it replaced, it was this RF, or Retractable Fastback, version that came to do the hard-top honours, with a three-part roof that folds away in seconds at the touch of a button but leaves the fastback-style rear section in place.

It weighs more than the standard convertible version, and new it costs more too. On the positive side, the car is more refined, with extra sound deadening added just for good measure, and the delightful handling balance of the original car is retained.

Just like the Convertible model, the Mazda MX-5 RF comes with two petrol engines: a 1.5-litre with 129bhp and a 2.0-litre with 158bhp. Being a relatively light car even the 1.5-litre version feels brisk, if not exactly outright fast, and revving its engine to the high 7000rpm limiter to access its pace is all part of the fun. The 2.0-litre also needs to be revved, but in doing so you instantly get pressed back harder in your seat by its extra grunt.

The entry-level trim in the RF is SE-L Nav, and in it you get goodies such as climate and cruise control, LED daytime running lights and 16in alloy wheels. A comprehensive infotainment package includes a six-speaker stereo, sat-nav, Bluetooth and a DAB radio, all operated through a 7.0in colour screen. Sport Nav versions throw in extras such as heated leather seats, rear parking sensors, automatic lights and wipers, and an upgraded stereo. The 2.0-litre models add 17in alloy wheels to both trims.

As you would imagine, it steers and handles really well, too, having the same nimbleness and ability to change direction quickly as the Convertible. Sport models receive a stiffer suspension that keeps roll under much tighter control and also makes the MX-5 feel keener to turn in to a corner. On all 2.0-litre models you get better traction out of corners, too, thanks to a standard limited slip differential.

Refinement at low speeds seems impressive enough, but when you get to higher speeds wind noise is very pronounced, and dropping the roof down seems to make that noise much worse. It rides well, though, especially for a small sports car, soaking up speed bumps and road imperfections with aplomb.

Space inside is best described as cosy, with a driving position that is a little compromised for taller drivers. There’s not a lot of oddment space in there either, although the boot is the same size as the Convertible’s, and the same whether the roof is up or down.

If you're interested in finding a used MX-5, or any of the other sports cars and convertibles mentioned here, head over to the Used Car Buying pages to find lots of cars listed for sale at a great price.

Like for like, the RF costs a little more than its Convertible sibling. Around £15,000 is the lowest price for a 2016 MX-5 RF with an average mileage for the year and a full history, bought from an independent or franchised dealer. Later 2017 and 2018 models (and a few 2020 cars) stretch from that figure up to around £20,000 to £22,000, which is the price at which you should be able to find a top-spec car from a franchised dealer. Spend between £22,000 and £24,000 on 2021 and 2022 models.

Since even the more powerful 2.0-litre petrol has a combined average fuel economy of 40.9mpg, fuel costs are very reasonable. The 1.5-litre unit has an even better combined average of 46.3mpg.

Road tax for pre-April 2017 cars is £135 for the 1.5 or £190 for the 2.0. In April 2017, the tax system was altered to be a flat rate, which is currently £165, applied to all vehicles registered after this date.

Servicing costs are not quite as cheap as mainstream rivals, but they won’t be the worst out there. And if you do find a cheaper like-for-like service at an independent garage, Mazda will aim to match it.

The extra oomph of the 2.0-litre engine, combined with its standard limited-slip differential, makes it the one we’d seek out. We’d try and combine this with SE-L Nav trim, which has all the goodies you could reasonably want on a car of this type.

Our favourite Mazda MX-5 RF: 2.0 SE-L Nav

The MX-5 has few traditional rivals, whether as a Convertible or as an RF.

The BMW Z4 is a two-seater with a more refined folding metal roof and a more luxuriously appointed dashboard. Earlier cars came with a fantastic six-cylinder engine, which is certainly a step up from the engines in the MX-5.

The Fiat 124 Spider has excellent handling, with a punchier engine than the similar MX-5’s and a more characterful interior. It is quite rare and has been off-sale for some time so used prices may well be high.

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If you're interested in finding a used MX-5, or any of the other sports cars and convertibles mentioned here, head over to the Used Car Buying pages to find lots of cars listed for sale at a great price.