Sunday Drive: 2024 Mazda MX-5 RF – A joyride in every sense
There are a very few vehicles that have earned as much praise and admiration over the years as the Mazda MX-5, or Miata as it is more commonly known. With the 2024 Mazda MX-5 RF (retractable fastback), Mazda continues to build on the legacy of this iconic roadster by offering a combination of driving pleasure, timeless design and the ever-important manual transmission.
We had the chance to spend a week in early October with the 2024 version of the Miata and every drive was a reminder of why this car continues to hold a special place in the hearts of many driving enthusiasts.
Exterior design: A striking, retractable fastback
One of the first things that caught everyone’s attention was the retractable hardtop design. Unlike the traditional soft-top Miata, the RF version features a power-folding hardtop that operates with the push of a button. In just 13 seconds, the top stows away, transforming the MX-5 from a coupe to a sleek, open-air roadster.
The fastback design gave the 2024 MX-5 RF a more aggressive, streamlined appearance. Its lines flowed smoothly from the front grille to the rear, and the targa-like roof added just the right touch of sophistication. The Kodo design language, which Mazda has perfected in recent years, was evident throughout the MX-5.
The 17-inch alloy wheels and low stance completed the sporty look, ensuring that wherever we went, the MX-5 RF got the attention it deserved.
Interior: A driver’s paradise
Upon getting inside the 2024 MX-5 RF, we were greeted with a cabin that is as driver-focused as it gets. The interior was simple yet designed for the drive, with quality materials and a layout that kept the driver at the center of the experience. We appreciated the low seating position, which enhanced the car’s sporty feel and brought us closer to the road.
The dashboard featured Mazda’s intuitive 7-inch infotainment system, which offered easy access to navigation, music and vehicle settings. It was compatible with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, making it easy to integrate our smartphones. The Bose premium audio system, which includes nine speakers, delivered crisp sound that filled the cabin even with the top down.
Storage space was admittedly limited in the MX-5, but this wasn’t a surprise. Mazda has kept the focus on driving pleasure, and for that reason, the trunk offers just enough room for a weekend bag or a small grocery run. But if one is buying a Miata, it’s not to haul lots of cargo — it is for the thrill of the drive.
Performance: Pure driving bliss
Every time we got behind the wheel of the MX-5, we were reminded why this car continues to be the benchmark for driving enthusiasts. Powered by a 2.0-liter Skyactiv-G engine, the MX-5 RF produces 181 horsepower and 151 pound-feet of torque. While those numbers may not sound like much in the age of high-horsepower sports cars, the Miata’s magic lies in its lightweight design and perfect balance.
At just over 2,400 pounds, the MX-5 is incredibly light, allowing it to handle corners with precision and agility. The rear-wheel-drive setup, combined with the near 50-50 weight distribution, made every turn an exhilarating experience. Whether we were navigating the winding roads of the Wasatch Mountains or taking a more leisurely drive along the highway, the MX-5 felt perfectly planted and eager to respond to every input.
The six-speed manual transmission was a joy to operate. With its short throws and precise engagement, shifting gears was quick and easy, giving us full control over the car’s power delivery. For those who prefer an automatic, Mazda does offer a six-speed automatic transmission. But in our opinion, the manual is the way to go if wanting the full MX-5 experience.
One of the standout features of the MX-5 is the suspension. Mazda has equipped the car with a double-wishbone front and multi-link rear suspension, which strikes an excellent balance between comfort and sportiness. Even over rougher sections of road, the MX-5 absorbed bumps gracefully while maintaining a firm, sporty feel. On smoother roads, the car came alive, rewarding us with sharp handling and direct feedback through the steering wheel.
Open-air freedom and top-down fun
The retractable hardtop in the MX-5 RF was the true highlight, providing the best of both worlds. With the top up, the cabin is quiet and insulated, making it suitable for daily driving in colder weather. But when the sun comes out, the hardtop could be lowered in seconds, allowing us to enjoy open-air motoring without sacrificing the sleek fastback look.
Driving with the top down while going up Provo Canyon in the fall was an unforgettable experience. The crisp fall air, coupled with the breathtaking views, made for the perfect “Sunday Drive.” Despite the cooler temperatures, we stayed comfortable with the heated seats and a wind deflector that minimized wind in the cabin.
Efficient fun
One of the added benefits of the 2024 MX-5’s small size and lightweight design is its impressive fuel efficiency. With an EPA rating of 26 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway, the MX-5 proves that you don’t need to sacrifice efficiency for driving fun. Over the course of our week, which included a mix of highway and city driving, we averaged around 32 mpg — an impressive figure for a sports car.
Safety and technology
While the 2024 MX-5 RF was primarily focused on driving pleasure, Mazda hadn’t skimped on safety features. The car came standard with blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert and lane departure warning. The adaptive LED headlights also provided excellent visibility during nighttime drives.
The RF model also included advanced traction and stability control systems, which helped keep the car stable even during some of our more spirited driving. Mazda has also included front and side airbags, as well as a rollover protection system.
At the end of the week: A true driver’s car
The 2024 Mazda MX-5 RF was a masterclass in driving enjoyment. Its lightweight design, nimble handling and engaging manual transmission made it one of the most enjoyable cars we have driven this year. The retractable fastback added a level of practicality, making it a year-round option, even for Utah.
While it may not have been the most powerful car in its segment, the MX-5 RF’s charm lies in its simplicity and focus on the driving experience. Whether you’re an enthusiast looking for a weekend toy or simply someone who appreciates a well-balanced, fun-to-drive car, the 2024 MX-5 RF delivered on all fronts.
Base price: $37,010
Destination charge: $1,165
Price as driven: 38,925
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- The new Mazda MX-5.
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- The new Mazda MX-5.
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- Inside the new Mazda MX-5.
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- The new Mazda MX-5.
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- Inside the new Mazda MX-5.
