Mazda MX-5 RF review

The Mazda MX-5 RF's seat is mounted fairly high up, so some drivers might feel a little perched. Even so, you sit with your legs straight out forwards as if you were in a go-kart, with your posterior near the road. Many will undoubtedly like this, but getting in and out can be an inelegant procedure. The seat has a tilt-adjustable base but there’s no height adjustment. 

The steering wheel adjusts for reach and rake, but taller drivers might wish it moved a little further out. It's also worth mentioning that the pedals are slightly offset to the right. All but the tallest drivers will be able to get comfortable in the snug seat, though, so long journeys won't be a chore.

Rear parking sensors plus auto lights and wipers are standard on Sport trim and up, while a reversing camera is standard on Sport Tech and GT Sport Tech trims. All models get LED headlights as standard, upgraded on Sport Tech trim to adaptive versions, which allow you to keep main beam on for longer without dazzling other drivers.

All MX-5 RF trims get a 7.0in touchscreen infotainment screen that incorporates Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone mirroring, sat-nav, a DAB radio and Bluetooth.

Unlike most touchscreen infotainment systems, you can’t actually interact with the screen through touch while you’re driving. Instead, you get a rotary dial between the seats that lets you scroll through the various menus, as you do in the BMW Z4. Thanks to the physical controller, the RF’s infotainment is really easy to use on the move and less distracting than touchscreen-only systems.