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MX-5 RF Named ‘Best Bang for the Buck’ at Atlanta International Auto Show

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The 2017 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF Club carries a starting MSRP of $32,285

The youngest of the MX-5s, the 2017 MX-5 RF, is already following happily in its soft-top predecessor’s footsteps and setting about winning some awards. This time, the RF was awarded the title of “Best Back for the Buck” at the 2017 Atlanta International Auto Show by the Greater Atlanta Automotive Media Association.


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The MX-5 RF comes at a starting MSRP of $31,555, and is equipped with the same 2.0-liter SKYCTIV-G engine that comes in all Miatas, which produces 155 horsepower and 148 lb-ft of torque. When combined with the standard manual gearbox, the MX-5 RF delivers 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway, which improves to 35 on the highway when moved to the available automatic.

The RF is only available in Club and Grand Touring trim levels, which means that it comes with a variety of better features. These features include performance-oriented additions like Bilstein shock absorbers, a limited-slip differential, and a sport-tuned suspension. On the inside, the RF got some premium touches in a 4.6-inch color TFT display and a BOSE audio system (including headrest speakers).


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The most defining characteristic of the MX-5 RF, though, is its hard, retracting roof, designed in a targa-top style that opens or closes in about 13 seconds. The addition of the hard top raises the car’s curb weight somewhat, but it is still an exceptionally light roadster, coming in at a mere 2,445 pounds.