 |
| All photos courtesy of Mazda |
It's been just about a year since I last drove a Miata. That one was a soft top. Most Miatas are soft tops, but for those who want a bit more protection from the world, Mazda offers the RF (Retractable Fastback), a hardtop that folds away at the touch of a button. Really, just one button!
True roadster aficionados will go with the soft top. The biggest difference between the convertible and hardtop is a mere 100 pounds.
Regardless of hardtop or soft top, the engine is the Skyactiv DOHC 2.0-liter, four-cylinder. The numbers, 181 hp and 151 lb-ft, are not awe-inspiring on paper. In real life they seem more pwerful. Maximum horsepower is at 7,000 rpm, and I can attest that the engine really comes alive over 4,000 rpm. Weighing in at around 2,500 lbs (+/-) the Miata does 0-60 in 5.5 seconds. The best part, at least in on the road driving, is the flexibility.
Two transmissions are available, both six-speeds - an automatic and a manual. The test Miata had the manual. Opt for the manual and you also get a torque-sensing limited slip differential.
Sometimes I think there is too much going on in an interior; this is one of those times. I often get a coffee to go, so I like cup holders. Those in the Miata look like afterthoughts. And I do not need, nor want, a large(ish) screen. Maybe Miata buyers, like me, have gotten older and we do like our creature comforts. It's a conumdum.
On the other hand the instrument cluster was just about perfect - huge central tachometer, flanked by a speedometer and combination coolant temp/fuel gauge.
The electric power steering gave decent feedback, feeling like it was pure mechanical (except for the effort at slow speeds, nice and easy). Huge brake rotors front and rear (11") provide great stopping power.
The test Miata RF had the optional 205/45R17 performance tires. The tires are more sport oriented than Grand Touring, and I wasn't out trying to show the world that I am some race drive, so I would opt for the slightly less harsh 195/50R16s that are standard.
Regardless of all the extras in the 2025 Miata it still feels like you are one with the road. Most of the time that is a good thing. On a bad, rutted, crumbling, pot-holed road it is a bad thing. The only answer is to slow down. My dad used to say that on a bumpy road you need to go fast so you just hit the high spots (not exactly advice a dad should give)!
I'd opt for a soft top if I was buying a Miata but I understand the appeal of a folding hardtop - more insulation from the outside world.
There are two 2025 Miata RF versions - Club, and Grand Touring as tested. The Club startss at $41,150, and the Grand Touring at $37,850. Prices are from mazdausa.com as of 10/20/2025.
Comments