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Mazda's new MX-5 RF gets a retractable targa hardtop

When Mazda developed the 4th gen MX-5, it had to be the ultimate lightweight sports car offering a pure driving experience. And you can’t get any lighter or any purer than a manual fabric soft-top. But then summer and winter came and they realized that it wasn’t all that practical.

So 2 years later, they built the Mazda MX-5 RF.

Standing for ‘Retractable Fastback’, this MX-5 comes with a folding 3-piece hard-top that opens/closes electronically up to speeds of 10 km/h. It was shaped as not to disrupt the original lines of the roadster while giving it a unique coupe-like silhouette. But those are not even the RF’s most unique feature.

Mazda MX5 RF

Mazda MX5 RFWhen the roof is stowed, only the front and middle sections folds down, leaving the c-pillars (and a span between them) to form a targa top. You know… like a Porsche, a Porsche without the 8-digit price tag.

The rear window glass also retracts for that wind-in-your-hair experience.

According to Mazda, the hard-top only adds 5 mm to the MX-5’s overall height and doesn’t take up any additional trunk space. Power still comes from a 1.5L or 2.0L SkyActiv-G engine with either a 6-speed manual or auto gearbox. They are, however, silent on how much more the RF model weights.

Mazda MX5 RF Mazda MX5 RF Mazda MX5 RF

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Christopher Kho

Christopher Kho

A true supporter not only of Philippine motorsports, but also of all Filipinos in motorsports whether they are competing locally or abroad. Chris has loved motorsports since the very beginning. This has led him to find Time Attack Manila.
View All Posts
Christopher Kho

Christopher Kho

A true supporter not only of Philippine motorsports, but also of all Filipinos in motorsports whether they are competing locally or abroad. Chris has loved motorsports since the very beginning. This has led him to find Time Attack Manila.
View All Posts
Time Attack Manila