Mazda MX-5 RF arrives

The roof itself, including the glass rear window, opens or closes in 13 seconds, and can be done at speeds up to 10km/h. With the roof down, the MX-5 RF has the look of a targa, rather than a true convertible, but the roof mechanism is compact, only taking three litres of boot space compared to the regular convertible. Both the RF and RF GT variants are powered by Mazda’s SKYACTIV-G 2.0-litre petrol engine, which outputs 118kW and 200Nm. Pricing starts at $38,550 for the RF manual with cloth trim, but this entry level model includes Bluetooth, satnav, Mazda’s MZD Connect system, 17-inch alloys and an extensive suite of driver assistance tech - including blind spot monitoring and rear cross traffic alert - that sees the RF come with a  5-star ANCAP safety rating. 

The RF GT adds heated leather seats, power mirrors, climate controlled air con and swivelling LED headlamps, with pricing from $43,890 for the manual and $45,890 for the auto. A variant of the RF GT adds a black roof and premium nappa leather seat trim for an additional $1,000. Combining open-air motoring with the security, water tightness and reduced noise of a fixed roof coupe, the MX-5 RF and RF GT are now available. See your Mazda dealer for more details.