Mazda MX-5 Miata RF 2021 Review

The Mazda MX-5 Miata RF enters a performance coupe and convertible segment in flux for the 2021 model year. Though the MX-5 has remained among our favorite choices since its 2016 debut, it always had a healthy dose of competition. Now, with the discontinuation of the Fiat 124 Spider (which was largely a disguised Miata anyway), and the gap year before we see redesigned versions of the Toyota 86, Subaru BRZ and Nissan Z, the MX-5 Miata finds itself alone at the top of the mountain.

No matter. This was an excellent two-seater in a crowded class, and it's an excellent two-seater in a deserted one. The MX-5 Miata RF in particular is a strong choice due to its power-folding hardtop, lending the convertible a flashy exterior style. For 2021 there are no significant changes besides the inclusion of wireless functionality for Apple CarPlay, which only increases bang for your buck. Check out our Expert Rating below to get our take on the Miata RF's performance, comfort and more.

What's it like to live with?

For some inside perspective on the Mazda MX-5 Miata ownership experience, check out our long-term road test. In recent years we've owned both a 2016 MX-5 Miata and a 2019 MX-5 Miata. Both of these models were soft-top convertibles, but our team's reflections should provide insight into owning an MX-5 Miata RF as well.

We recommend the Grand Touring trim for most people given its wide range of comfort features that make this tiny two-seater a more pleasant place to be. It only costs a fraction more for the upgrade, and the standard equipment adds impressive value for the money. Of course, the Club is an excellent option if you can't take your eye off those performance upgrades.

The Mazda MX-5 Miata RF is a two-door sports car available in two trims: Club and Grand Touring. It separates itself from the standard MX-5 Miata with a power-folding roof that, when closed, makes the MX-5 RF look like a hardtop coupe. All models are rear-wheel-drive and powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine (181 horsepower, 151 lb-ft of torque) paired with a six-speed manual transmission or a six-speed automatic.

Club This starter level is also the sportiest version of the MX-5 RF, complete with:

• LED headlights
• 17-inch black-painted alloy wheels
• Keyless entry and ignition
• Heated seats
• Nine-speaker Bose audio system
• 7-inch touchscreen
• Two USB ports
• Apple CarPlay (with wireless connectivity) and Android Auto smartphone compatibility

Safety features for the Club include:

• Forward collision warning (alerts you of a possible collision with the car in front and can automatically apply the brakes if a collision is imminent)
• Blind-spot monitoring (alerts you if a vehicle in the next lane over is in your blind spot)
• Rear cross-traffic alert (alerts you if a vehicle behind you is about to cross your vehicle's path while in reverse)

Club models with the manual transmission also add:

• Shock tower brace
• Limited-slip differential
• Sport-tuned suspension with Bilstein shock absorbers
• Engine sound enhancer

A special Brembo/BBS Recaro package is only available with the Club and manual transmission. It includes:

• Gray BBS wheels
• Brembo front brakes with red front and rear calipers
• Aerodynamic body kit
• Recaro sport seats

Grand Touring A more luxurious trim that comes with these helpful features:

• Automatic headlights and wipers
• Adaptive headlights (headlights swivel to illuminate the road in turns)
• Dark gray wheels
• Heated mirrors
• Auto-dimming rearview and driver-side mirrors
• Navigation system
• Leather upholstery
• Automatic climate control