MX-5’S NEW HEADWEAR
Mazda has given its roadster a Targa- style roof in the guise of the Retractable Fastback. Can substance rule over style?
WHAT’S NEW? Ever since the third-generation model, the Mazda MX-5 had two roof types to choose from: a classic soft-top and the more complex folding hard-top, simply called RHT (retractable hard-top).
Mazda has continued the dual-model strategy for the current fourth-gen MX-5, although the RHT is now dubbed RF (retractable fastback). That’s because the RF’s tin-top, unlike in the RHT, doesn’t completely disappear when driving with the air blowing into your hair. Instead, the RF maintains newly designed C-pillar panels in their places — whether roof up or down — in the fashion of Porsche’s 911 Targa.
The RF is being sold at 2.7 million baht — 1 million baht more than the canvas-topped MX-5. Both have the same 160hp 2.0-litre petrol engine, six-speed automatic gearbox and equipment list.
Although Mazda is now updating its entire model range with GVC technology, it isn’t available in the MX-5. The suits at Hiroshima say such ride and handling enhancements aren’t necessary in the roadster.
Whatever, is the RF more desirable than its lesser brethren, and can it feel any more worthwhile than other proper coupes with rear-drive credentials and similar prices?
WHAT’S COOL?
Like in the RHT predecessor, the presence of the folding hard-top helps for more cruising refinement on the move when compared to the soft-top version. Of course, you can still hear some road noise, but it’s considerably quieter in the RF and there’s less scuttle shake, as well.
Another good thing about the RF’s roof is that it stows away into a dedicated compartment without letting you fear whether boot space has eroded. And those new C-pillars help for a distinctive appearance at all times — whether it’s raining or not.
Although the RF is more than 50kg heavier than the soft-top MX-5, its weight penalty won’t necessarily be felt on the move. In fact, the rev-happy naturally aspirated motor does a good job in keeping up with pace.
And yes, Mazda might be right about not being perturbed in fitting GVC to the MX-5. That’s because the RF goes around like any other MX-5 with a direct steering, firm yet comfy ride and adjustable rear-drive handling. The RF even feels more fun to drive than the BMW 2-series Coupe and the Subaru BRZ/Toyota 86 twins.
WHAT’S NOT?
To be less subjective as possible and fair to Mazda, we talked to several enthusiasts about the RF’s appearance. The bad news is that we have heard words like “frumpy” and “different” but nothing associated to terms like gorgeous.
And even those aforementioned models should be considered as distant rivals to the MX-5, the RF — with some inner intentions of swaying punters of coupes and roadster fans who hardly (or never) fold away the roof in Thailand — simply loses out in number of seats, interior and boot space and proper cruising comfort. That’s not to mention BMW’s premium brand image and the 200hp performance offered in the Subayota (or Toyobaru, if you insist).
BUY OR BYE?
Objectively speaking, the MX-5 RF is a better choice than the rag-top model due to its roof-up refinement and somehow uncompromising performance and road manners. You could say that it’s 100k well-spent for an import of this price.
But the thing is if you really want coupe-like appearance and hushed cabin, then the MX-5’s nearby opponents is really the way to go.
The MX-5 has always been a price-affordable roadster that’s fun to drive and whose foibles can be forgiven in one way or the other.
And to really enjoy it for what it is, we’d say that the soft-top — with its classy roof and honest lightweight concept — is still the one to have.