Review: 2023 Mazda MX-5 RF

The 2023 Mazda MX-5 RF is a fun convertible to be in driving around and it will never get boring. It’s cute to look at and fun to be in. The only new update in 2023 is the new color; zircon sand metallic.

Engine/Transmission

The MX-5 RF has a 2.0L Inline 4-cylinder engine that produces 181hp and 151lb-ft of torque. It has enough power to still enjoy the drive due to its light weight. The MX-5 is available with a 6-speed manual and 6-speed automatic transmission although I do believe a manual transmission is a must on a fun ride like the MX-5 and I’m sure a lot of people would agree with me on this. It is more engaging to drive and just feels sportier in my opinion. The MX-5 6MT is rated for 9.0L/100km in a city and 7.0L/100km in a highway with the 6AT being slightly better in fuel economy. I averaged a combined 9.1L/100km. I know I could have averaged slightly better numbers but again, this is simply a fun car and driving enthusiastically is a must.

Handling/Performance

Fun little bug is how I describe the MX-5. It is awesome when driving on windy roads as it is very sporty, and handling is sharp. It is one of those cars that makes you feel confident when making sharp turns as it reacts to whatever the driver does. Driving in and out of traffic is very easy of course due to its size. The gear shifts are very smooth, as it doesn’t feel rough when shifting. Driving over potholes can feel a bit rough so its best to avoid driving over them when possible. While driving on highways the road noise is a bit louder but honestly it isn’t a big deal, it is a convertible after all and sits low. The MX-5 is like that guy that makes you feel alive. You’ll want to be always ready for action, have fun with it, and do things you normally wouldn’t do. This MX-5 brings out the fun side out of any driver. It will always put you in a happy mood, that’s just how great it is. You don’t need all that much power to have fun with it and that’s the great thing about it.

Comfort

Space is barely there, although at 5 ft 10, I was able to fit perfectly, and I could honestly drive for long periods at a time. I wouldn’t get tired or feel uncomfortable. Now this could be because I am obsessed with the MX-5, and I just wanted to spend as much time with it as possible. Leg room was decent for someone my height or shorter and visibility was ok as well. I had the hardtop during my time with the MX-5 RF and it was very simple to put the top down or up with the push of a switch. Trunk space is very limited because it is narrow, but it is a bit deep and so I was able to go shopping to Ikea and fit a few items so its not all that bad. Few bags and small items will fit just fine. This may not be a car of choice for a daily driver but if you do decide it works, I think you would be just fine if you can fit in it easily.

Interior

The 2023 MX-5 RF is equipped with a 7-inch touchscreen. Very easy to use and no issues of it being slow. It is also equipped with leather upholstery seats, and something I really like is the body-coloured interior door trim. In my opinion this car, like many other things, looks best in red. It has manual 6-way adjustable driver seat and 4-way for the passenger seat. The cup holders are detachable so when not in use you can hide them for more leg room for the passenger and more elbow room for the driver. You get a bit of storage space in the centre console cubby.

Exterior

The MX-5 has strong front features that you just can’t say this is a girly car. And I’m not complaining, I love how it looks, strong features, bit subtle on the back and looks elegant. I think anyone that has driven the MX-5 will have a story or two of someone coming up to them to say how great the car is and take a picture or two and say how lucky you are. At least that is what happened to me. The MX-5 is equipped with 17-inch alloy wheels, black metallic just looks so sexy again why a red exterior makes it pop or stand out even more. If you opt for the sports package, you will get 17-inch BBS forged wheels, Brembo front brakes, red painted front/rear brake calipers, and Recaro sport seats.

Pros/Cons

Let’s start off with the good things about the MX-5 RF. First, it’s a fun car to drive. As mentioned earlier, driving around is simple yet engaging. It is exciting even on a rainy gloomy day, it will put a smile on your face. It is decently good on gas. It is comfortable at least for me, so that is something you would need to judge for yourself. I had no issues fitting comfortably. Road noise is a bit loud at higher speeds so if that is something that would bother you, then maybe not an option. Now on to the not-so-great things, its on the expensive side. It has a starting price of $33,900 CAD with the soft top and manual transmission and $33,384 USD for the MX-5 Grand Touring. It looks great but it might not be for everyone as it is quite small and can be squishy for some people. There is no space for belongings so even if you wanted to, a road trip is not ideal in the MX-5.