Review: 2019 Mazda MX-5 RF

The 2019 Mazda MX-5 RF is what a roadster is meant to be. The vehicle is lightweight, fun to drive, has great steering response, and its power-retractable hard top option is welcomed if you are hesitant about a soft top convertible.

Exterior Design

The exterior design of the 2019 Mazda MX-5 is unique and recognizable from afar. It’s come a long way from its previous Miata models with sleek curves and tapered angles. Our road test model came in beautiful Soul Red Crystal Metallic with the colour continuing into the interior door trim. That way, there’s a seamless look when you have the roof open and windows down. The roof opens at the touch of a button and can be operated even when the vehicle is in motion under the following conditions: ignition switch on, you can be in any gear except reverse, vehicle speed is 10kph or less, trunk lid is closed, and the vehicle cannot be tilted at an angle of more than 15 degrees.

The front LED headlights include Mazda’s signature lens and our road test included auto headlight levelling. The rear combination lights are also LED and the newly-added rear camera is thoughtfully included in the rear bumper design. Our road test included 17”BBS forged alloy wheels with a dark finish, Brembo front brakes as well as red front and rear calipers.

Interior Design

The 2019 Mazda MX-5 RF is simplistic and includes what you’d expect in terms of connectivity. The design is welcomed as this vehicle really is meant to be appreciated while driving. Mazda’s HMI Commander (which controls the infotainment system) is located near the gearshift though it’s not the most comfortable position for any long-term placement. This is just as well, since the gearshift for this manual transmission is more important and it was located at a comfortable distance. You can also use the 7” colour touchscreen display to operate the Mazda Connect system.

The centre glovebox is shallow and can hold a small number of items. The glovebox is accessed between the driver and passenger seats and can be locked (if you’re leaving the roof open). If you have drinks in the cupholder though, you’ll need to remove them as the cupholders are placed just in front of them. If you’re driving solo, you can move one of the cupholders to the front near the gearshift. If you have a passenger with you, it doesn’t take up a lot of room though would be more pleasant for your passenger if it wasn’t there.

Our road test included Recaro seats which were comfortable for our drives and added to the sporty feel. I admit there were a few taller and larger passengers that I had in my road test that I thought wouldn’t be happy about sitting in the roadster, and honest feedback from them was that they enjoyed the ride. This year’s model includes a telescoping steering wheel for the first time. In this car, there are 9 (yes, NINE) speakers within the Bose premium audio system including driver and passenger headrest speakers and subwoofer. It took some time getting used to my Bluetooth calls’ audio coming right behind my head.

Overall the dashboard is laid out well and includes some nostalgic nods with a circular vent and large knobs for climate control. Two USB ports and an auxiliary port is conveniently located under the power heated seats button.

Under The Hood / Basic Maintenance

The engine bay compartment is compact, and you’ll notice covers and lots of plumbing when you open the hood. All items are located close together and basic do-it-yourself items are located up top such as windshield washer top-up, battery, fuse box, etc. The air filter and oil cap/dipstick are also within easy reach if you’re planning to do some maintenance items on your own. The battery is located close to an engine ground, which will make it easier if you ever needed to jump start the vehicle.

Of note, the coolant reservoir is at the front of the engine and the minimum/maximum levels are easy to discern. The owner’s manual provides a lot of information including how to replace light bulbs, wiper blades, battery maintenance, and drainage outlet cleaning procedure.

Child Car Seat

You may install a rear-facing child car seat as the passenger seatbelt can be converted to automatic locking mode. Make sure that you move the seat as far back as possible and that the passenger airbag deactivation indicator light is illuminated when you’re using a child car seat.  You can also install a booster in the 2019 MX-5. You’ll be using the seatbelt to secure the child and the seat, there are no UAS latches provided. We didn’t find a rear tether and wouldn’t recommend installing a forward-facing child car seat.

Storage / Trunk

The 2019 Mazda MX-5 has… you guessed it, a small trunk. I couldn’t fit a set of golf clubs in, though I was able to put most of my everyday items in such as my laptop bag, a few groceries, and miscellaneous shopping errands. You can also place small items in storage boxes located behind the seats in the trim panel. There is a tire repair kit (no spare tire) that is meant to get you going to the nearest repair shop in case of a flat tire. The trunk release button is located subtly next to the license plate bulbs. While it’s not the most convenient place, it makes sense to have it there in order to avoid an awkward button somewhere on the body. There is also a trunk release button inside the cabin on the driver side.

Model tested:

2019 Mazda MX-5 RF GS-P

Skyactiv-G 2.0L 4-cylinder engine

6-speed Skyactiv manual transmission

Rear-wheel drive

Seating Capacity: 2 people

Road Test Terrain: 60% city, 40% highway

Tested MSRP: $46,395 CAD including freight & PDE

Starting Price: $39,900 CAD