2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF
Other years
2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF Review
- Sublime steering and handling
- RF doesn't sacrifice any of the soft top's fun-to-drive character
- Offers the security of a fixed-roof coupe
- The electrically folding roof does not reduce trunk space
- It's heavier than the soft-top Miata
- Noisy at highway speeds
- Tiny trunk
- Formerly optional Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are now standard
- Same for the i-Activsense package of driver safety features
- Last year's GT-S package now standard on manual-equipped Grand Touring cars
- Part of the fourth MX-5 Miata generation introduced for 2016
The Mazda MX-5 Miata is one of our favorite small sports cars. It does have some downsides, though. It's, well, small, so there's not much space to stretch out. The Miata can also get pretty noisy at highway speeds, even with the top up. Thankfully, Mazda offers a way to minimize the roar of the road in your ears when the windows are up: the 2020 MX-5 Miata RF.
The RF comes with a power-folding hardtop instead of the regular Miata's fabric top. Even though it's still fairly loud compared to traditional coupes, the Miata RF is a little more peaceful at highway speeds. It also has fixed buttresses positioned behind each passenger, giving the RF a distinct coupe- or targa-like look instead of the regular Miata's traditional roadster profile.
What's it like to live with?
Interested in learning about what it's like to live with this little roadster? Check out our long-term reviews for the fourth-generation 2016 Mazda MX-5 Miata and the updated 2019 Mazda MX-5 Miata. We spent a year and more than 20,000 miles with each of these charming convertibles. In our long-term coverage, you can read in-depth coverage from our editors on everything from the way the Miata drives to its reliability. Though our long-term coverage is based on the soft-top MX-5, most of our impressions apply to the RF as well.
Our verdict | |
In a world of ever more complex performance cars, the refreshingly pure and elemental Mazda MX-5 Miata RF shows everyone how it's done. It's fun to drive and a little bit easier to live with than the regular Miata. The only downside is price. The standard Miata's budget-friendly Sport trim is not available in the RF, which starts with the midgrade Club level. That, plus the price premium the RF commands, makes it significantly more expensive than the base Miata. | |
How does the MX-5 Miata RF drive? | |
The Miata's featherweight construction and rear-wheel-drive platform mean that you can have a ton of fun without a supremely powerful engine. There's just 181 horsepower on tap, yet our manual transmission-equipped Miata RF test car sprinted from 0 to 60 mph in a respectably quick 6.6 seconds. You'll get the most driver engagement by picking the manual transmission. The Miata's brakes are another strong point — they are both easy to control and post short stopping distances. Though steering is a little light in effort, the steering wheel is just the right size and offers immediate response. The Miata responds best to smooth and deliberate inputs. It's precise and predictable, and it's easy to catch the rear end if you get a bit overzealous. There's noticeable body roll (even with the Club suspension), but the only time that becomes an issue is during fast, aggressive driving. | |
How comfortable is the MX-5 Miata RF? | |
Small two-seat roadsters aren't known for comfort, but the Miata is surprisingly livable in the day-to-day grind. The Club has a firmer ride than other Miata trims because of its Bilstein dampers, but it still has pretty good compliance over rough roads. Only larger potholes will send a shiver through the chassis. The optional Recaro seats offer an enviable combination of support, breathability and comfort. But they sit higher than the standard seats, making them a no-go for passengers over 6 feet tall. The Miata's only significant drawback comfort-wise is the abundant cabin noise, even with the additional sound insulation the RF provides compared to the soft top. Road and wind noise increases significantly with speed. On the highway, you'll have to raise your voice to talk to your passenger. | |
How’s the interior? | |
The cabin's elegant design makes the most of the tidy space and prioritizes the fun of driving. There are minimal controls, and those that exist are, perhaps unsurprisingly, easy to reach. Though partially due to clever control placement, their ease of use is directly related to the Miata's minuscule cabin size. Drivers around 6 feet tall will push the boundaries of head- and legroom, and anyone much taller than that might not fit at all. But average-size drivers will have no problem finding an agreeable position. Forward visibility is great, though the rear view is somewhat impacted by the RF's targa-like top. The automatic top is quick to retract and deploy. | |
How’s the tech? | |
The MX-5 RF must balance driving purity with a driver's desire for modern connectivity and safety tech. Two USB ports are standard, as are Android Auto and Apple CarPlay smartphone integration. There's also an impressive list of active safety features — the blind-spot monitor in particularly useful given the RF's visibility-reducing rear buttresses. The nine-speaker Bose audio system does a good job both filling the cabin with sound and competing with ambient noise. Voice controls are limited and stick to a menu of on-screen prompts, but the system recognizes speech well. | |
How’s the storage? | |
No one should expect a two-seat convertible to be a utilitarian machine, so the Miata's lack of carrying capacity shouldn't come as a surprise. The Miata RF's trunk measures just 4.6 cubic feet — the same as the one in the regular soft-top Miata. Unlike larger convertibles, there's no back seat to use as a cargo shelf. There's not even a glovebox. Instead, the Miata just has a small bin between the seats that serves as the main storage area for things such as smartphones, wallets or small handbags. There is sufficient room for one child or toddler in a forward-facing seat or booster only. There are no car seat anchors or top-tether attachment points. | |
How economical is the MX-5 Miata RF? | |
EPA-estimated fuel economy for the six-speed manual is 29 mpg combined (26 city/34 highway). In our RF test car, we managed 32 mpg on our 115-mile mixed-driving evaluation route. Matching the EPA's numbers in the real world should be pretty doable. | |
Is the MX-5 Miata RF a good value? | |
The RF costs thousands more than the MX-5 Miata soft top. That's partially because Mazda doesn't offer an entry-level Sport trim on the RF. But even if you compare the RF to a standard Miata at its Club level, the RF still commands a premium. As with the standard MX-5, the RF's cabin materials are quite nice. An abundance of soft plastics and faux leather coverings give the interior an upscale feel. While the price can creep in upper trims and with option packages, the Miata is a good value overall. Mazda's bumper-to-bumper warranty is good for three years/36,000 miles, while the powertrain is covered for five years/60,000 miles. These are average for the segment. Roadside assistance is offered for three years/36,000 miles, which is below average among non-luxury convertibles. | |
Wildcard | |
The Miata maintains a thread from roadsters past, with a certain purity missing from more modern, tech-advanced cars. Drivers feel fully engaged as the car executes driver commands with urgency and accuracy. The RF's hardtop and fastback style are modern touches, but the driving enjoyment remains. | |
Which MX-5 Miata RF does Edmunds recommend?
It makes sense to upgrade to the Grand Touring given that it barely costs more than the standard Club. However, if you want cloth seats or the Brembo/BBS Recaro package, you'll have to stick with the Club. There's really no wrong way to go here.
Mazda MX-5 Miata RF models
The 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF is a small, lightweight roadster with a power-retractable folding hardtop. It comes in two trim levels: Club and Grand Touring. Both are powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine (181 horsepower, 151 lb-ft of torque) that drives the rear wheels. The motor is paired to your choice between a standard six-speed manual transmission or an optional six-speed automatic. Highlighted features include:
Save as much as $3,568 with Edmunds
2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF pricing
in Ashburn, VA
Grand Touring
2.0L 4cyl 6M
Edmunds Suggested Price$32,317
Club
2.0L 4cyl 6M
Edmunds Suggested Price$32,976
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Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF.
Trending topics in reviews
- fuel efficiency
- value
- spaciousness
- handling & steering
- reliability & manufacturing quality
Most helpful consumer reviews
5/5 stars, Perfect sports car!
Bran,
Grand Touring 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl 6A)
Went from a 2011 camaro to a 2020 RF GT in eternal blue mica. Best purchase I’ve ever made! Absolutely a blast to drive, feels as fast as the camaro I traded in. I’m 6’1 and fit in easily with an inch or 2 of head room to spare. Cons: Interior is okay (Apple CarPlay/android auto is what saves the infotainment) wind noise isn’t the greatest at highway speeds but it’s not too loud, truck space is tiny, and the cup holders aren’t the best. Pros: driving dynamic, handling, and steering is the best I’ve ever felt in a car, it’s very easy to maneuver around with the small size, parking is never an issue, RF top is fantastic, way better than the soft top in my personal opinion, gas mileage is great! I average ~30mpg and that’s with very spirited driving! All in all this is a fantastic sports car for the money! I highly recommend this vehicle!!!
5/5 stars, Unreal ride!
Lou BER ,
Club 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl 6M)
The most fun car to drive that I’ve had, and that’s saying something because I’m older and have had a lot of them. I’m sure there are faster convertibles out there, but for the money, this car absolutely is a joy. I don’t think I’ve missed an evening drive after work yet since I got it a month ago! Love it.
5/5 stars, My wife’s little zoom zoom!
Kim Willingham,
Grand Touring 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl 6A)
Comfortable, quick, fun, surprisingly deep trunk.
2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF video
Here's Why We Love Driving the Mazda MX-5 Miata RF | One-Lap Review
NOTE: This video is about the 2019 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF, but since the 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF is part of the same generation, our earlier analysis still applies.
Carlos Lago gets behind the wheel of the new 2019 Mazda MX-5 Miata Club RF. Updates to this version of our favorite roadster include more power, a higher redline, and improvements to the suspension and the interior. The Club variant comes with firmer Bilstein shock absorbers, and RF speaks to the retractable folding hardtop. Why do we like this little car so much? Ride along at the Edmunds test track to find out.
Safety
Our experts’ favorite MX-5 Miata RF safety features:
- Blind-Spot Monitoring
- Alerts the driver to the presence of vehicles in adjacent lanes and sounds a chime if a signaled lane change might result in a collision.
- Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
- Sounds an alert if perpendicular traffic approaches as you reverse from, say, a parking stall or a driveway.
- Adaptive Front-Lighting System
- Swivels the headlights in the direction the steering wheel is turned to provide better illumination around turns and curves.
Mazda MX-5 Miata RF vs. the competition
2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF
2020 Fiat 124 Spider
Mazda MX-5 Miata RF vs. Fiat 124 Spider
The Fiat 124 Spider roadster is based on the MX-5 Miata, so these two cars share a lot of similarities. The Fiat's turbocharged engine prevents it from being a complete facsimile, but it still isn't as fast or as pleasant to drive as the Mazda. The Miata RF is a far more well-rounded vehicle overall.
Mazda MX-5 Miata RF vs. Toyota 86
The Toyota 86 is a coupe that offers the same kind of back-to-basics driving thrills as the Miata. However, its larger trunk and back seat make it the more practical vehicle. Both are well-matched from a performance perspective, but the Miata has a superior infotainment system and a more comfortable ride.
Mazda MX-5 Miata RF vs. Hyundai Veloster
With a hatchback body style, usable rear seat and front-wheel-drive architecture, the Hyundai Veloster seems quite different from the Miata. But the Veloster is similarly fun to drive and has all the features and conveniences of a modern car. It's also much less expensive than the Miata, so you can get a fully loaded high-performance Veloster N for thousands less than the base RF Club. They are very different cars, so choose the one that best fits your style.
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FAQ
Is the Mazda MX-5 Miata RF a good car?
The Edmunds experts tested the 2020 MX-5 Miata RF both on the road and at the track, giving it a 8.0 out of 10. You probably care about Mazda MX-5 Miata RF fuel economy, so it's important to know that the MX-5 Miata RF gets an EPA-estimated 29 mpg to 30 mpg, depending on the configuration. What about cargo capacity? When you're thinking about carrying stuff in your new car, keep in mind that the MX-5 Miata RF has 4.5 cubic feet of trunk space. And then there's safety and reliability. Edmunds has all the latest NHTSA and IIHS crash-test scores, plus industry-leading expert and consumer reviews to help you understand what it's like to own and maintain a Mazda MX-5 Miata RF. Learn more
What's new in the 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF?
According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF:
- Formerly optional Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are now standard
- Same for the i-Activsense package of driver safety features
- Last year's GT-S package now standard on manual-equipped Grand Touring cars
- Part of the fourth MX-5 Miata generation introduced for 2016
Is the Mazda MX-5 Miata RF reliable?
To determine whether the Mazda MX-5 Miata RF is reliable, read Edmunds' authentic consumer reviews, which come from real owners and reveal what it's like to live with the MX-5 Miata RF. Look for specific complaints that keep popping up in the reviews, and be sure to compare the MX-5 Miata RF's average consumer rating to that of competing vehicles. Learn more
Is the 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF a good car?
There's a lot to consider if you're wondering whether the 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF is a good car. Edmunds' expert testing team reviewed the 2020 MX-5 Miata RF and gave it a 8.0 out of 10. Safety scores, fuel economy, cargo capacity and feature availability should all be factors in determining whether the 2020 MX-5 Miata RF is a good car for you. Learn more
How much should I pay for a 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF?
The least-expensive 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF is the 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF Club 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl 6M). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $33,045.
Other versions include:
- Grand Touring 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl 6M) which starts at $34,425
- Grand Touring 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl 6A) which starts at $34,750
- Club 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl 6M) which starts at $33,045
- Club 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl 6A) which starts at $33,645
What are the different models of Mazda MX-5 Miata RF?
If you're interested in the Mazda MX-5 Miata RF, the next question is, which MX-5 Miata RF model is right for you? MX-5 Miata RF variants include Grand Touring 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl 6M), Grand Touring 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl 6A), Club 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl 6M), and Club 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl 6A). For a full list of MX-5 Miata RF models, check out Edmunds’ Features & Specs page. Learn more