Skip to main content

Mazda’s folding-hardtop MX-5 RF begins accepting pre-orders at $33,850

2017-mazda-mx-5-miata-rf
2017 Mazda MX-5 RF Image used with permission by copyright holder
Mazda’s hotly anticipated folding-hardtop MX-5 Miata finally gets a price tag. Pre-orders for the 2017 MX-5 RF Launch Edition will be accepted starting at 12 p.m. PT today.

Only 1,000 examples of the Launch Edition RF are pegged for production, each starting at $33,850 for the 6-speed manual and $34,925 for the 6-speed automatic. Which transmission you prefer is your only option for these first PRHT models when you put down a $500 refundable deposit. Deliveries for the Launch Edition RF’s will begin in February of 2017.

Recommended Videos

Unique to these first 1,000 models is a Machine Gray Metallic paint job, Auburn Nappa leather interior trim with a hand-painted black roof panel, and bespoke doorsill plates. These features won’t be available on other hardtop Miatas, so if you desperately need that black roof, you only have one chance.

Read More: 2016 Mazda MX-5 Miata Review

Please enable Javascript to view this content

“After a tremendously positive response to our global reveal of the 2017 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF, we knew we had to do something unique for the MX-5 RF Launch Edition,” said Robert Davis, senior VP, U.S. operations, MNAO. “Exclusive access to the presale is a way we can offer something special to our most loyal customers who can’t wait to get behind the wheel of one of the most anticipated vehicles in Mazda history.”

The folding hardtop version of the new MX-5 is expected to ride a bit softer than its convertible counterpart as a “grand touring” option in the MX-5 portfolio. Don’t expect the sports car to turn mushy, but with the added weight of a hardtop and softer springs, it may be slightly slower around a track or curvy mountain road than the ragtop iteration.

If you are thinking of grabbing a Launch Edition RF, you’d better hope for an invitation, as other special edition MX-5’s tend to sell out fast. If, however, those invited do not book all 1,000 examples, then ordering will be opened to the public on October 3. As a bonus, Mazda will throw in a custom-designed, serialized 42mm Tourneau watch with your purchase.

All prices exclude an $835 destination and handling fee.

Miles Branman
Former Digital Trends Contributor
Miles Branman doesn't need sustenance; he needs cars. While the gearhead gene wasn't strong in his own family, Miles…
Hyundai Ioniq 9 vs. Kia EV9: Electric SUV sisters battle it out
Hyundai Ioniq 9 driving

The long-awaited Hyundai Ioniq 9 is finally on its way. Hyundai has taken the wraps off a production-ready version of the electric SUV, showing a modern vehicle that could well be the electric SUV to beat when it finally rolls out to the public. But it will have to contend with Hyundai’s sister company in order to truly gain the title of best electric SUV in its price range. The Kia EV9 has been a go-to option for a few years now.

But is one of these SUVs actually better, or are they just different? We put the Hyundai Ioniq 9 and the Kia EV9 head to head to find out.
Design
There are some similarities in the designs of the Hyundai Ioniq 9 and the Kia EV9, but they also look a little different. First, the similarities. Both vehicles are clearly SUVs, with larger blocky shapes. But, while the Kia EV9 has straight lines and sharper angles, the Ioniq 9 is a little curvier, with a rounded roofline and sculpted curves in the side panels.

Read more
Find Ford gifts for everyone on your holiday list, no really
Ford Accessories used while camping for holiday gifts

When you're shopping for holiday gifts, auto and Ford accessories probably don't cross your mind, at least not initially. Unless, of course, you're planning some gift ideas for the car enthusiast you know. But actually, Ford has a lot of different gift options even for those who aren't big into cars and vehicles. I know, it's an odd proposal but hear me out. From electronics and exterior accessories to truck bed augments, interior gear, and even outdoor-friendly gear -- like for camping -- Ford has a ton of options. Just to provide some examples, first aid safety kits, truck bed camping tents, portable fridges, pet-friendly seat mats, even dashcams, keyless entry systems, and beyond.

You never know, you could find the perfect gift in Ford's accessories lineup.
Shop Now

Read more
Costco, Electrify America add EV-charging stations in three states
costco electrify america add 50 ev charging stations in three states ea chargers 1280

Costco, which had abandoned offering EV charging 12 years ago, is getting serious about resuming the service.

Over a month ago, the big-box retailer once again put its brand name on a DC fast-charging station in Ridgefield, Washington, that was made by Electric Era .

Read more