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Mazda MX-5 RF 2.0 [184] Sport Tech 2dr Review

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If your budget can stretch to it, this 2.0-litre engine adds a useful dose of power to the MX-5. Stiffer suspension (which is still comfortable) and a limited-slip differential all help it add up to a wonderfully capable and agile sports car, even if the outright acceleration is some way off its more expensive rivals. It still provides surprisingly good economy, too. Only available with Sport Tech and GT Sport Tech trims.


2.0 [184]

Coupe

Mazda can be summed up in a single word: bold. Not only do its cars generally look like nothing else on the market, but it’s also invested heavily in innovative engine technology.

So, while many car makers have moved to smaller turbocharged engines, Mazda instead offers larger motors that are still efficient. For example, the entry-level petrol option in the Mazda 3 is a 2.0-litre unit –&nbsp;far larger than what you’ll find in most rivals – but it remains very clean.

Highlights of Mazda’s line-up include the MX-5 sports car, which has won our Convertible of the Year Award multiple times, and the CX-5 large SUV, which was named as our inaugural best car for dog owners.

MAZDA

MX-5

Adds a rear view camera, 17in wheels, sports suspension and a limited-slip differential on top of the Sport offering.


Sport Tech

2.0 [184] Sport Tech 2dr

20-184-sport-tech-2dr

Body coloured electric/heated door mirrors

Blind spot monitoring with rear cross traffic alert

Mazda MX-5 RF

The Mazda MX-5 RF is as fun to drive as its Convertible sibling while handling is actually an improvement over the soft-top. Boot space isn't hindered, either. But the step up in refinement isn’t enough to justify its extra cost, and rivals such as the Toyota GT86 offer a bigger, faster package, even if they don't have a convertible option. 

What we're looking for:<ul><li>Wind-in-the-hair excitement</li> <li>Roof that’s quick and easy to raise and lower</li> <li>Comfortable seating for four adults</li> <li>Sufficient practicality for everyday use</li> <li>Little wind buffeting</li> <li>Quietness, whether the roof is up or down</li> <li>Minimal shaking and shimmying over bumps</li></ul>

Despite the British weather, UK car buyers are among the biggest enthusiasts for wind-in-your-hair motoring, so convertibles have always been surprisingly popular here. It’s best to be able to react to the fickle climate, though, so we’re after a roof that opens (and closes) slickly and quickly and good top-down cruising refinement.

There are precious few bespoke drop-tops these days, so your choice of models is generally limited to soft-top&nbsp;versions of existing models. Mini will sell you a drop-top version of its style-focused hatchback, if you’re after a bit of flair. The Audi A5&nbsp;Cabriolet, meanwhile, brings all of the benefits of the regular A5&nbsp;– refined engines and a beautifully finished interior. Alternatively, the much more expensive Mercedes-Benz S-Class Cabriolet is one of the most luxurious convertibles on sale.

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Mazda MX-5 RF 2.0 [184] Sport Tech 2dr Review

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