2018 Mazda MX-5 RF Limited Edition Review

There’s a new limited edition version of the Mazda MX-5 RF and when Mazda say limited edition they really mean it!

Just 110 2018 Mazda MX-5 RF Limited Edition cars are available in Australia, all are already in the hands of Mazda dealerships nationwide.

So, if you want one, you’d better be quick!

Exterior

Mazda has taken the standard MX-5 RF and added a set of new-look black alloy wheels, there’s also a subtle body-kit that adds small wings on the front guards.

The current Mazda MX-5 is the best-selling of all the MX-5 generations that we’ve since the early 1990’s…so we can assume most MX-5 fans are more than happy with the current styling.

As I put in my original MX-5 RF review, I don’t think the folding hard-top version of the roadster loses anything against its soft-top sister.

Interior

The Mazda team has added Recaro sports seat into the RF as part of the Limited Edition package.

Other than those seats you will find the standard MX-5 RF cabin and that’s no bad thing…although space is at a premium.

Some of the best bits of the cabin include the really good fit and finish of the plastics and other materials, the MZD Connect infotainment system and the seating position.

Take note, if you’re around the size of an average Australian male you might not feel entirely comfortable in the MX-5.

I always struggle with not being able to bring my left leg between the steering wheel and the console and I always feel like the top of my head is sticking out the roof!

Also, because it sits so low to the ground you might have trouble getting in and out…it can be hard to rise out of the Mazda gracefully!

Oh, and we (i.e. more hefty/normal size people) might struggle with the side-bolstering on the Recaro seats…they are very sports-orientated and that means hefty seat-base side bolsters that don’t quite fit the “average” hips/derriere.

Features

There are no additional comfort or tech features in the Limited Edition car above the standard RF, however a purchase here will again see you drive off with…

• Nine-speaker stereo
• Cruise control
• Sat-nav
• Push-button ignition
• Electric folding roof
• Drive and Engine

The Limited Edition car comes exclusively with Mazda’s 2.0 litre four-cylinder engine and the transmission is six-speed manual only.

Producing 118kW/200Nm, those outputs might seem minimal but as compared to Toyota 86/Subaru BRZ it just seems to have that little bit of extra go.

Particularly here with the manual transmission you shouldn’t feel too let down by the naturally-aspirated engine.

The RF Limited Edition does boast a couple of other features that make it just that bit sportier – Brembo front brakes and Bilstein suspension.

The brakes, with only the front getting the Brembo treatment, feel that little more enthusiastic and the suspension is certainly firmer than the standard car.

I would have had the Mazda MX-5 RF as one of my favourite handling cars available in 2018, the Bilstein suspension is certainly stiffer than standard, I’m not sure you really gain anything in the handling stakes, but you do lose some ride comfort.

There’s also a strut brace under the bonnet that helps to stiffen-up the feel of the Limited Edition car too.

Safety

The 2018 Mazda MX-5 range comes with a full five-star ANCAP safety rating.

The car comes with a good array of safety tech, including rear cross traffic alert and active LED headlamps, however there is no Autonomous Emergency Braking.

Good Bits

• Small but usable boot space
• On-road feel
• Electric roof

Not So Good Bits

• Limited interior space
• Pricing
• Recaro seats are a bit snug

Summary

There is nothing much not to like about the new-generation Mazda MX-5, it’s a good looker, decent enough performer, and comes with enough creature comforts to allow it to be used easily as an every day drive.

The power folding roof is also a highlight – it gives you the ability to have both a coupe and a convertible with absolutely no fuss.

The cabin space would be an issue for me over time though.

In regards to the Limited Edition car – if you’re a big Mazda MX-5 fan then this is the car you’ll want. For the average buyer though the extra dollars might be hard to justify.

Oh and the offering also comes with a Seiko watch and an official letter from the head of the project.

Facts and Figures: 2018 Mazda MX-5 RF Limited Edition

• Engine: 2.0 litre petrol developing 118kW and 200Nm
• Transmission: Six-speed manual only
• Warranty: Three years
• Safety: Five stars
• Origin: Japan
• Price: from $55,790