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Used 2018 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF Consumer Reviews

4.6 out of 5 stars
28 reviews

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We have a limited number of reviews for the 2018 MX-5 Miata RF, so we've included reviews for other years of the MX-5 Miata RF since its last redesign.

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Pros
Cons
5 out of 5 stars

"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"!

Safety
4 out of 5 stars
Technology
4 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Comfort
4 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Value
5 out of 5 stars
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5 out of 5 stars

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.

Technology
5 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Interior
5 out of 5 stars
Comfort
4 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Value
5 out of 5 stars
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5 out of 5 stars

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.

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
5 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Interior
5 out of 5 stars
Comfort
5 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Value
5 out of 5 stars
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5 out of 5 stars

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.

Safety
4 out of 5 stars
Technology
4 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Interior
5 out of 5 stars
Comfort
4 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Value
5 out of 5 stars
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5 out of 5 stars

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.

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
5 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Interior
5 out of 5 stars
Comfort
4 out of 5 stars
Reliability
3 out of 5 stars
Value
4 out of 5 stars
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