Used 2017 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF Consumer Reviews
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Zoom, Zoom Just Got More Fun
Tiff, 02/19/2017
2017 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF Launch Edition 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl 6M)
24 of 24 people found this review helpful
If you are looking for an extremely fun, beautiful, versatile roadster then purchase the 2017 MX-5 RF Launch Edition Mazda. I made my purchase on 2/9/17 and am already addicted to this car. I actually crave driving it (I've never craved driving a car before!). Don't worry about the professional reviews of the cons being that the RF is of a heavier weight (due to hardtop) than the soft top, that only part of the roof stows away and that there are blind spots. The heavier weight is not noticed at all when driving on city/hwy roads. Maybe if one were to take the MX-5 RF onto a race track one might notice a nano-second difference in 0-60 time but how much race track driving will one be doing (for most of us, very little if any). That only the top portion of the roof stows away is in my mind a pro not a con. As another reviewer noted, he was able to enjoy driving with the top down when the temp was in the 40's. I experienced the same thing. Initially thought I'd have to wait for warmer days to drive with the top down but was able to do so very comfortably when the temp was in the 50's so in my mind this is a plus as I'll be able to enjoy more driving days with the top down. Don't worry about the blind spots (all cars have blind spots) and b/c this car is loaded with safety features that lets you know if someone is in your blind spot and when you wander past lane markers etc (not that I lane-wander when driving, but it's nice to have these alerts). If anything, with all the electronic alerts (that you can adjust to your liking) your blind spots have been essentially neutralized. Cons: I owned 2 RX-7's back in the day & miss the extra room they offered but for the money and intended purpose of the car, this car is the best in its price range currently available. Another potential con would be that if you are over 6' then you might find the cabin a bit cramped. I'm not, so I'm comfortable, but notice that people over 6' don't have a lot of wiggle room in the car. With a Launch Edition, I plan to baby this car so that with time it becomes a 'classic'. Bottom line... This car is a dream to drive and the fun factor is off the charts! :)
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Smiling all the way
Smiley, 04/19/2017
2017 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF Launch Edition 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl 6M)
15 of 15 people found this review helpful
"2017 MX 5 RF Launch manual tranny Drove 4 states to find this gem. Superb vehicle, daily driver through the Blue Ridge, 50 mile round trip at 39 MPG!! Interior finish quality exceeds expectations, fits like a glove for 5 ft 11, unique seat construction contours around you. Bose system includes speakers in the headrest with resonate surround sound, and very user friendly navigation, infotainment software. Exterior paint in gray is exceptional: shimmers like molten liquid. Acceleration, cornering, responsive steering and braking are spot on. This coupe with open top option far exceeds early 2000 boxter , or 1980 Spitfire in my rearview past. Routine maintenance costs will not be the dumpster fire that a $350 oil change Porsche entitles itself to. Keeps this 60 yr old heart pumping, and with its agility, lane departure, blindspot and rear cross warnings, safe on the road. Mazda rocks!"
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2017 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF for sale near you
3 of 13 listings
- Launch Edition ConvertibleMSRP: $24,72510 mi away
- Grand Touring ConvertibleMSRP: $23,859In-stock online
- Club ConvertibleMSRP: $21,359In-stock online
See all 13 listings
First Impressions
Sal D., 02/07/2017
2017 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF Launch Edition 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl 6M)
20 of 21 people found this review helpful
The RF is definitely a different open air experience. I've owned soft top, open-all-the-way convertibles for the past twenty years, and even with the windows up, there's a narrow temperature range where you can feel comfortable driving open top. But the RF is an outlier. I picked up my Launch Edition car ten days ago and figured it would be awhile before I could drive here in the Long Island winter with the top down. But after driving a short while today with the bright sun beating down and warming up the cabin, I decided to test the roof for the first time. Even though temperatures were in the 40's, I was pleasantly surprised. With the top down, windows up and heat set to 72, I was quite comfortable zooming around the local streets. It obviously would feel a bit different at highway speeds, but at least I know that I can enjoy what the car was made for more often. A caveat, though, if you're thinking of buying one: take a test drive with the top down to make sure it's the type of open air driving feel that you want. Also, I'm not going to comment on the driving dynamics yet, as Miata always gets good reviews in that respect and it's only a short time for me so far. Bottom line is that as one person I'm very happy with the car - love the styling and it's the first of its kind.
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What a Blast to drive!
Malcolm Leader, 03/05/2017
2017 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF Club 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl 6M)
11 of 11 people found this review helpful
Once you're in, the seats are great, but getting in and out can be a chore. After a lot of practice, it gets easier. This is the price one pays when driving a low-slung high performance car. Press on the gas and you take off like a shot. Hit the Brembo brakes and you stop quickly. Driving around the mountain passes where I live is bound to put a smile on your face. The handling is great with good steering feedback. For a non-turbo 2.0L engine, it really goes! The shifter is short-throw and a delight. The transmission is up for anything. Clutch is good but abrupt sometimes. I really love this car!
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Beautiful, fun, weekend car
LESLEY LITTNER, 01/29/2017
2017 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF Launch Edition 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl 6A)
10 of 10 people found this review helpful
It's a really fun sportster. Small in dimensions but loaded with technology and ability. Not particularly friendly cockpit. Gauges in awkward places. Six speed manual tranny keeps you constantly busy... but hey...that's what it's all about... just not for rush hour. Roof is terrific but creates blind spots. Not made for tall or large people. Still too new to completely rate.
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One year and 22000 trouble free miles.
Tom T, 09/03/2018
updated 03/10/2020
2017 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF Grand Touring 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl 6A)
10 of 10 people found this review helpful
This car has been my daily driver for just shy of two years now. His name is Bob and there's nothing negative to report except that the sun visors suck. This car won me over after about a week and I've since driven it from Kansas City to Atlanta. Then Kansas City to Bentonville. Then Kansas City to Omaha. Then Kansas City to Hermann. Then Kansas City to Crested Butte. Last week I drove down Hwy 7 in Arkansas to Hot Springs and back up Hwy 23 to Eureka Springs. For commuting and highway it's better than the manual mostly because the engine spins at a lower speed when it's in 6th gear but for long trips above 65 mph you'll need earplugs (seriously) and unless you're willing to trash your clutch on take off the automatic is the faster car too. Using sport mode in the city and manual mode on twisty roads helps the driving experience. The trunk is not big but will hold 4 grocery bags with room to spare. Luggage for two will fill the trunk completely and you should use soft sided bags. Keep in mind the car is not for large or tall folks. Don't even try. However , if you're not a chunkosaurus you'll find the car becomes an extension of you and you forget you're driving a car and just will yourself from one point to another. For winter driving I went down a size and bought 16" wheels and Michelin X-Ice tires to drive in snow. Never had a problem and the tires still look brand new. This car is a hoot to drive in the snow and the heated seats and mirrors make it almost civilized. So to drive this little car smoothly I had to relax and learn to make smooth extremely small steering inputs and remember to "look where you want to go". This is not a car that does well when hammered and poorly treated. It made me want to be a better driver and has ruined me for driving regular cars. Absoutely the worst things I can say are the sunvisors are a joke and the power outlet location was designed by a sadistic meany. There you go. Go buy one of these cars.
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Best Looking Convertible in price range
Vascularcme, 02/15/2017
2017 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF Launch Edition 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl 6A)
9 of 9 people found this review helpful
This is the first time a Miata actually looks like a mans car. The lines are beautiful and the car feels like a go cart. I love how the car handles and the car is as quick as I need it. Love the car!
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Late life desires
Path man, 07/18/2017
2017 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF Grand Touring 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl 6A)
8 of 8 people found this review helpful
I drove a '93 Miata for 22 years before giving it to my younger brother, who I knew had lusted for it. Then I read a review of the 2017 RF and started looking into it. Now in my late 70's, I found that I still desired a stick shift car that was fun to drive. I have only 400 miles on the RF Grand Touring model but it is all that I hoped for. Love the retracting hard top. The performance so far is fine for me. Will probably die driving a stick shift (as the reviewer wanted to do).
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rf club brembo
jim, 05/08/2017
2017 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF Club 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl 6M)
6 of 6 people found this review helpful
I love this car I had to trade my mustang gt since my daughter turned 16 and got her license, Wanted a Porsche Targa but not in the budget, No worries, I liked it better than the used caymans and audi tts;s Puts a smile on my face every time I drive it. Hard to get in and out of, no storage to speak of but it rocks. It really does.
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"The same but different!"
Mimazdaman, 04/06/2017
2017 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF Launch Edition 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl 6M)
9 of 10 people found this review helpful
I already have a "16" soft top MX5 and couldn't pass on the chance to get a "17" RF. That's allowed me to drive them back-to-back. Soooo . . . how do they compare? First, they are both tremendously fun to drive. You'll definitely be looking to take the long way home in both cars (preferably on some winding roads) to fully enjoy how well they perform. Both of mine have 6 speed manuals, which I think increases your involvement. I would have to say that overall performance is very similar in both cars. With the roof closed the RF is definitely a little tighter and, therefore, quieter. Surprizingly, you get a little more engine and exhaust feedback, which I'm liking. Operation of the RF top is easy. There is quite a bit of buffeting with the top open and windows down. The targa top definitely restricts rearward vision. Living in Michigan I'm seeing the RF as the perfect early spring, late fall and possibly winter(snow tires?)MX5 . . . an all weather interceptor. But, when summer rolls around around and sun comes out and the temperatures start heating up I'm still going to need my "rag top"!
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Everything you want and more!
DB, 03/31/2017
2017 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF Launch Edition 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl 6M)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
I sold my last MX-5 about ten years ago and missed it from the day I sold it. I received my Luanch Edition about a month ago (yes, I was one of the lucky one thousand!) and love everything about it. It is the same fun to drive MX-5 I knew plus some. The new styling is very aggressive, the color combo is outstanding and the rectractable hardtop is just awesome. Just a really fun and reliable little care. I thought my last MX-5 was a great value, but this one is even better. (And the dealer that my Luanch Edition came through was as outstanding as the car!)
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Red hot little sports car!
christine, 04/30/2017
2017 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF Grand Touring 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl 6A)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
This car gets top rating for performance and value. It is extremely fun to drive. I recommend the 6 speed manual transmission for optimal enjoyment. It is very easy to drive and handle and has lots of zip for a four cylinder engine.
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Ridiculously Fun and Radically Fine Mazda Miata RF
Michael Timmel, 01/01/2018
2017 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF Grand Touring 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl 6A)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
I only been driving my Miata RF for a few weeks. Can't speak much for its long-term reliability or value. But I can tell you that I have never enjoyed driving as much!! This car does not have to be a “fun car to drive on weekends." It is luxurious enough and comfortable enough for me to use as my every day source of transportation. Absolute loving it. Zoom-Zoom.
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A true roadster
Vince, 08/08/2018
updated 06/06/2022
2017 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF Club 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl 6M)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
The MX-5 RF hearkens back to the days of the small "barchetti" roadsters. Incredible road feel and handling in a package that, in my opinion, is one of the most beautiful on the road today. Let's be clear: this car isn't fast but (to make the distinction), it's quick . I've been toying with the idea of putting the new Edelbrock blower in the car but every time I drive it, I talk myself out of it; the car is just so damn much fun to drive, just the way it is. I'm currently getting an average of 33.8 mpg (mostly highway) and with that kind of mileage, using 93 octane fuel doesn't hurt. In comparison to my two most recent sports cars, both BMW Z4s, I would suggest it is, far and away, more fun to drive. And to have bought this car for only ~$33K...I couldn't ask for more. I just love this baby! UPDATE: I’ve driven and owned many sports cars, Italian, British, German (two Z4s and a Z3). None compare with the Miata for shear driving exhilaration. And the RF (the model I own) is superbly and intelligently designed for maximum, year-round enjoyment.
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Better than my Z
John K, 05/30/2019
updated 06/01/2021
2017 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF Grand Touring 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl 6M)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
The last sports car I had was a 1988 300Z that I bought new. I did love that car, but traded it in on a van when I met a woman with two kids...bad choice! Anyhow, several marriages later, I find myself working at age 74 and am tired of the 2017 Versa I commute to work in. Friend shows me pictures of the MX-5 RF and I am in deep lust! Tried the rag top with an automatic for a few days. It was fun, but not exciting. Took it back and found my 2017 MX-5 RF on the used lot. Manual tranny made all the difference in the world. Its also a real head-turner and gets compliments all the time. It is a blast to drive and makes the commute as fun as it can be. I really don't care if there is little trunk space. That's what my wife's suv is for.
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Mazda Miata MX-5 RF GT
LeesburgDriver, 04/18/2017
2017 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF Grand Touring 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl 6M)
7 of 8 people found this review helpful
I picked my Mazda MX-5 Miata RF Grand Touring (Manual) two weeks ago and driven it about 3 days so far. Bright sunny days and one evening with the top down and it was quite comfortable temperature wise. The noise level does go up significantly on the highway at 65MPH+, to the point you no longer hear the radio. Still a gorgeous little car, a lot of fun to drive. I do plan to take it up to Shenandoah National Park and see how it handles those mountain roads. Issues: It is irksome to climb in and out of it and doors do swing wide out, so be careful in tight parking spots. The passenger storage bin between the seats is difficult to reach and no cup holders in the door. The seats could be a little better padded, I find the seats in my Tacoma more comfortable. Recommendation: For Mazda I would recommend making the car perhaps 2"+ inches wider and perhaps few inches longer and use the space for better driver/passenger comfort.
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Room for one and some fun
Holly S, 12/23/2019
updated 07/13/2020
2017 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF Grand Touring 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl 6M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
But not much else! I’m giving her a 5 Star but let’s call it a 4.5 because of a few quirky things. This is an amazing car. It’s the loaded model and for the price I don’t think it can be beat. This is a roadster supreme. It has power, a smooth auto trans, and the retractable roof is out of this world. I’ve owned others - Triumph, Fiat, but Mazda has perfected this species. Everything from automatic windshield wipers to blind spot alarms, this car is not your 60’s British Sportscar. Here’s the downers. My 6’ tall husband is too tall for all but short rides. If you’re much taller than 5’10”, find another car. Teency trunk has no spare tire. There’s a fix a flat kit, and room for 4-5 grocery bags. No glove box. There is a lockable, 1/2 cubic foot compartment between the seats, not easily accessible while driving. Another one, not lockable, is behind the passenger seat, only accessible with no one sitting in the passenger seat. Cup holder(s): Two, available, and they fit in front of the CD player between the seats. One can be relocated to a more driver-friendly position but it reduces passenger leg room. The command center knob takes some getting used to. Touch screen is inoperable while the car is moving. MPG about 25. Aside from the convince quirks, this car is at least 30% less than a 2019 but it’s not 30% less car. Looking forward to fun for many years to come. Now that I’ve had the car 6 months, I’m still in love. Put new tires on and it sticks to the road better. Getting used to the sun visors that don’t move, and also found steering wheel controls that make using the Master Knob the back up tool, not the primary. MPG is closer to 30 than 25. This sexy little roadster has more functions than I know what to do with, but it is small, barely a couples car, not a family car or hauler at all. Despite smallness, it’s worth it for the leather seats, Bose stereo speakers in the headrest, the handling, the feel of the road. My favorite car of the 10+ I’ve owned.
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Pride of ownership goes a long way with this car
Greg, 01/04/2018
2017 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF Club 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl 6M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
You must give yourself this gift.My dissesion to purchase is never questioned. I simply get the giggles every day I’m in her. Get one before they realize they priced them too low $$$$$
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Lovin it so far!
Richee, 11/08/2019
updated 05/12/2020
2017 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF Grand Touring 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl 6M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Traded my 2010 Grand Touring hardtop for a 2017 Retractable Fastback, in October. Really liked them both. The 2010 seemed a bit quicker, not that important since we don’t buy an MX5 for speed. The 2017 seems more refined, yet sporty, I’m older, so like a few more amenities, and love the color I got, it’s called Ceramic. Both my MX5’s were 6 speed manuals, the 2017 shifting is much smoother. I am retired but still very active and on the go, and drive the Mazda as much as possible. It’s a great “pick me up” since I love to drive. Highly recommend this car, for me it’s all about FUN, and this car delivers!
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Kill me now. Mazda MX5 RF Launch Edition
D. Levine, 03/02/2017
updated 03/04/2020
2017 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF Launch Edition 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl 6M)
6 of 13 people found this review helpful
Ordered in October 2016. Delivered in February 2017. Car is exhilarating to drive. 6 speed manual is responsive. Only complaint is that 3rd and 5th gear are close together. Also no rear camera. The engine hums beautifully. DO NOT BUY THE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION! ! Update 3.3.2020 - Tires already. not even 17k miles. Interior leather showing unusual wear and tear. Seat belts don't always retract.
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2017 Transmission Automatic -Step aside
Kathi Johnson , 02/24/2023
2017 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF Grand Touring 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl 6M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Just had 60k maintenance and she runs like a beast. Love this little car.
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Unreliable
Bruce, 06/03/2018
2017 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF Grand Touring 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl 6A)
2 of 27 people found this review helpful
Battery is dead after a few weeks of sitting. Jump the battery, drive off and the car dies. New car with 844 miles. I'm done and getting rid of it. Cramped interior if y9u are 6' or above.
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Red Miata
Leta, 06/18/2024
2017 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF Grand Touring 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Love how it handles! It fits me
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Dealership experience disaster
Dr. J. Cabrera., 05/04/2020
2017 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF Launch Edition 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl 6A)
0 of 11 people found this review helpful
Loved the MX-5 RF but the Dealer offer on the web site was totally bogus. The actual price turned out to be $3,500 more than the advertised. There were all kinds of added Dealer Prep, extras and outrageous charges. I bought another car with an honest Dealership one week later.