2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF Review

Name: 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF
Brand: Mazda

Price Range: $22,998 - $31,998

Mazda MX-5 Miata RF Grand Touring Convertible Exterior Shown

Good

8.0

out of 10

edmunds TESTED

In a world of ever more complex performance cars, the refreshingly pure and elemental 2020 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.

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Average price: $27,739

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Appraise My Mazda MX-5 Miata RF

Mazda MX-5 Miata RF model years

Mazda MX-5 Miata RF for Sale

Pros

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

Cons

It's heavier than the soft-top Miata
Noisy at highway speeds
Tiny trunk

What's new

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

Overview

Written by automotive expert Cameron Rogers

5/18/2020

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.

Continue reading Edmunds Expert Rating below

For sale near Ashburn, VA

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2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF
Grand Touring Convertible
$23,495
great price
$4,239 below market
- 19,146 miles
- 4cyl automatic
- 53 mi away
- Back-up camera
- Bluetooth
- Navigation
- Leather Seats
- Keyless Entry/Start
Close
Located in Fredericksburg, VA
Vehicle History:
2 accidents, 1 owner, personal use only
Features and Specs:
30 Combined MPG (26 City/35 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN:
JM1NDAM78L0416972
Stock:
RZM1575
Certified Pre-Owned:
No
2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF
Grand Touring Convertible
$23,807
fair price
$1,253 above market
- 86,051 miles
- 4cyl automatic
- 4 mi away
- Back-up camera
- Bluetooth
- Navigation
- Leather Seats
- Keyless Entry/Start
Close
Located in Sterling, VA
Dealer processing fee is included in our advertised price. We believe an all-in price is the most transparent and straightforward way to do business w...
Vehicle History:
1 accident, 2 owners, rental vehicle
Features and Specs:
30 Combined MPG (26 City/35 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN:
JM1NDAM77L0411262
Stock:
VP15785A
Certified Pre-Owned:
No
Listed since:
05-29-2026

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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.

Edmunds Expert Rating

edmunds TESTED

by the Edmunds Experts

Good

8.0

out of 10

We drove the 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF on our test track and on real roads. Our Edmunds team conducts rigorous independent vehicle testing, driving 500,000 miles a year.

Performance

9/10

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.

Comfort

8/10

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.

Interior

7.5/10

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.

Technology

8/10

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.

Storage

5.5/10

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.

Fuel Economy

9.5/10

How’s the fuel economy? 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.

Value

8.5/10

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

9.5/10

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.

2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF trim level differences

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: Compare the 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF trim levels in-depth.

Which MX-5 Miata RF trim 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.

Cost to Drive

Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia

$205/mo

$217/mo

Avg. Compact Car

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Reliability

The 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF has a 3 years / 36,000 miles basic warranty and no recalls. Below you’ll find our owner reviews.

Recalls

There are no recalls for the 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF

Warranty

3 years / 36,000 miles Basic Warranty

Basic Warranty: 3 years / 36,000 miles
Drivetrain Warranty: 5 years / 60,000 miles
Rust Warranty: 5 years / unlimited miles
Roadside assistance Warranty: 3 years / 36,000 miles

Mazda MX-5 Miata RF Reviews

Owner Reviews

4.7

48 reviews

5(86%)

4(8%)

3(0%)

2(0%)

1(6%)

See all 48 reviews of the Mazda MX-5 Miata RF

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Most Helpful Owner Reviews

Trending topics

Drive It Like You Stole It

scmtbdoon, 01/17/2020

2019 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF Grand Touring 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl 6A)

I own a 2019 MX-5 RF. I never considered a soft top to be practical enough for my daily driver. The MX-5 isn’t really that practical (like a Mazda3 hatch), but it is practical enough - it is weather tight and holds my gear. The new 181 hp engine with 7500 rpm redline also provides broader horsepower and torque bands – and a wailing good time! There is a reason that Porsche sells … Boxters and Caymans. They have shown there is a market for a soft and hard top version of basically the same car. Porsche has also shown there is a market for both automatic and manual transmissions in sports cars. It increases the overall sales volume and amortizes the cost of development over more units. This makes a 2 seat vehicle (that appeals to a small fraction of buyers) a more commercially viable proposition. Mazda is trying to do the same thing, at less than half the price. And unlike the more insulated / isolated Boxter and Cayman the MX-5 can be wrung-out at less than lethal speeds. My 2019 Mazda MX-5 Grand Touring Retractable Fastback has a 6 speed automatic. It stays in automatic when traffic is stop and go. But 99% of the time I drive it in the manual shift gate for more control on curves and grades. I prefer slap-shifting the stick, but the paddles are just as fast. Stomp the gas pedal and it instantly kicks down 2 gears to pass. You can bounce it off the 7500 rpm rev-limiter and it will not shift up. It will shift down automatically – but only as the car rolls to a stop. Every up-shift is a speed shift because you never take your foot off the gas. No power pause between gears. It looks great with the top up or down. So much control and feedback to all your senses. Bashing about on mountain 2 lane it makes you feel like you are going fast even at 45 mph. With the top down, you hear the engine, smell the forest, feel the air rush over the car body, feel the road condition through the steering wheel, the suspension and the brakes. All responses are instantaneous, precise and linear – whether turning the steering wheel, pressing the gas pedal, down shifting or applying the brakes. The steering is very precise, with immediate turn-in. You can place the car exactly where you want it with no steering correction. Good torque as low as 2500 rpm with great torque from about 3500 to 7000 rpm. And it sounds strong and smooth all the way to redline. In the RF, with the top down and windows up with temperatures in the low 40s you’ll be nice and warm without a jacket or sweater. EPA says the automatic is more gas-frugal than the manual. Professional reviewers report that 0-60 mph is only about 0.2 seconds slower than the manual – around 6.0 to 6.5 seconds depending on how much you are abusing the engine and transmission. Head into a posted 30 mph bend at 45, down shift into 2nd gear and start applying gas as you reach the apex. No brakes, just exhaust note as the auto-box does a rev matching down shift, then momentum into apex and 3 seconds of 2nd gear acceleration before entering the next bend. You’ll be grinning, with no hooligan stunts required – just fast (almost legal) snaking through the S-bends. You’re going 30-60 mph but it feels faster and way-more-fun than a heavier more powerful car. At 70 mph in 6th gear with the top up the engine and tire noise are not intrusive. You can have a conversation in fairly normal tones. The head rest speakers and speed sensitive volume adjustment work quite well to deliver good sound. As a daily driver, your size matters. At 5’-10” / 165 lbs. I am 3 notches from maximum seat travel and find the seats very comfortable and supportive – no sliding around, even without huge side bolsters. I have plenty of room for my U.S. size 9.5 feet and my knees don't touch the steering wheel, center console or door. However, at 6’-2” or 200+ lbs. you might have issues. Cockpit storage is small and not very convenient. The (extra cost) Mazda cargo net is about $40 on the web and a Rubber Maid bin from the hardware store is around $20. Both will add flexibility when finding a home for your stuff – and when quickly emptying the trunk so you can go to the supermarket for 3 bags of groceries. The new telescoping steering wheel will help you find a good seat position. The 4.5 cubic ft. trunk is small, but deep and well-shaped. However, the opening is fairly small. Definitely take your “gear” to the dealership and give the trunk and the cockpit cubbies a fit-test when you go for a test drive. There is no jack and no spare tire – just a compressor that runs off the car battery and injects magic goo into the tire. If you use the compressor and goo I believe you may be buying at least one new tire, and possibly a set of 4 (if the surviving 3 are visibly worn). This wake-up call from my long-time Michelin tire store. So keep your mobile phone charged and use the free 3 year Mazda roadside assistance to have the car hauled to the tire store so the flat can be patched!

Zoom, Zoom Just Got More Fun

Tiff, 02/19/2017

2017 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF Launch Edition 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl 6M)

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 …

Fast, Fun, Fun, Fun!!

Gina, 12/01/2018

2019 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF Grand Touring 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl 6A)

This is a super fun Mazda to drive! I had a 2010 Corvette but this is much more fun to drive! I love the power targa top, much better than having a convertible if you are concerned with too much wind blowing your hair into a tangled mess. This is like a large sunroof. Just enough for me. This is my every daily driver although I don’t drive much. Worst part of the car is the Cup …

Smiling all the way

Smiley, 04/19/2017

2017 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF Launch Edition 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl 6M)

"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, …

We have a limited number of reviews for the 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF, so we've included reviews for other years of the MX-5 Miata RF since its last redesign.

2020 MX-5 Miata RF Features & Specs

Trim:

Club

MSRP (New) Excludes Destination Fee	$33,045
Engine Type	Gas
Combined MPG	29 MPG
Cost to Drive	$205/month
Seating	2 seats
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place	4.5 cu.ft.
Drivetrain	rear wheel drive
Warranty	3 years / 36,000 miles

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Safety

Our experts like the MX-5 Miata RF models:

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.

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