Exterior
Mazda MX-5 range
The Mazda MX-5 has a range of 10 models which uses Mazda’s new trim structure of Prime-Line, Exclusive-Line and Homura. New for 2023, the range-topping Homura manual features red front Brembo brake callipers.
Colours
The Mazda MX-5 is available in a choice of seven colours – Artic White, Deep Crystal Blue, Jet Black, Machine Grey, Platinum Quartz and Soul Red Crystal. Added for the 2023 model year MX-5 is Zircon Sand. Prime-Line and Exclusive-Line RF models benefit from a body-coloured retractable hardtop, while the range-topping Homura flagship model features a stand-out Piano black retractable hardtop, although Mazda MX-5 RF Homura models finished in Jet Black Mica paint feature a Jet Black Mica roof rather than Piano Black.
Proportions and boot
Aside from a 5mm increase in overall height, the Mazda MX-5 RF maintains the balanced proportions and award-winning Kodo: Soul of Motion design of the MX-5 Roadster. Yet thanks to its power retractable hardtop and distinctive fastback style it is instantly discernible from the Roadster. With unique looks roof up and down, the Mazda MX-5 RF is a new take on the 2016 World Car Design of the Year winning fourth-generation MX-5. Thanks to its exceptionally clever roof mechanism the Mazda MX-5 RF’s 127-litre boot ensures there is no luggage space compromise compared to the Roadster.
Roof
The unique three-piece fully automated roof is operated at the touch of a button and is one of the fastest retractable hardtops on the market – opening or closing in just 13 seconds even when moving at speeds up to 6mph. The front and middle sections disappear along with the rear window glass while the fastback buttresses return to their external position to deliver a unique roof down style profile and look. To reduce weight the roof is made of three different materials – aluminium for the front section, steel for the middle and sheet moulding compound (SMC) plastic for the rear unit. The black garnish trims that extend the door window lines into the buttresses are made of bioengineered plastic and do not require painting.
Safety
The Mazda MX-5 RF continues to offer unparalleled levels of safety with a deployable active bonnet system for pedestrian protection and a lightweight, yet incredibly strong, Skyactiv-Body. Front and side airbags are standard, and the side airbags feature a special bracket on the outside shoulder of the seat to protect occupants’ heads even with the top down. The passenger seat is equipped with anchors and a top tether for ISOFIX child seats. The RF also benefits from Mazda’s i-Activsense active safety technology.
Kinematic Posture Control
To enhance the Jinba Ittai connection, Mazda has come up with Kinematic Posture Control (KPC), a new technology developed for the MX-5. The system recognises a difference in speeds between the back wheels while cornering, lightly applying the brakes on the inner wheel. This prevents lift, enhancing the characteristics of the MX-5’s rear multi-link suspension and supressing body roll. In short, KPC stabilises the car, especially during hard cornering with high G-forces and on rough roads, making the MX-5’s already legendary handling that much better while also improving comfort. KPC, which adds no weight whatsoever to the car, is standard equipment on all MX-5s.