Fun! 2026 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF and Soft-Top

Friend of the site Connie Peters reviews the 2026 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF and the soft-top. Take a look at the video or transcript below to see what she thinks. 

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A transcript, summarized by AI and edited by a staffer, is below.

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Summary

Connie Peters reviews the 2026 Mazda MX-5 Miata, comparing the RF retractable hardtop and soft-top convertible. The reviewer spends two weeks with both versions, highlighting their styling, driving dynamics, interior features, and pricing. Although the MX-5 receives few changes for 2026, it remains an engaging, lightweight sports car that delivers an enjoyable driving experience.

1. Introduction and Model Updates

Peters begins with the 2026 Mazda MX-5 RF, featuring the retractable hardtop. The Canadian-market model is called the GSP, which corresponds to the Club model in the United States, although the equipment differs between markets.

The Canadian GSP with the Sport package includes:

• • Aero Gray Metallic exterior paint.
  • Recaro sport seats with suede and Alcantara inserts.
  • Brembo sport brakes.
  • A six-speed manual transmission.

In the United States, the Club RF offers Napa leather upholstery, while the Canadian model uses cloth and Alcantara.

The reviewer also plans to spend a week with the soft-top model equipped with a six-speed automatic transmission, allowing for a comparison of both body styles and transmissions.

2. Exterior Styling and Practicality

The MX-5 remains one of the most attractive and recognizable small sports cars on the market.

The RF features a retractable hardtop with a targa-style appearance. The soft-top version provides a more traditional convertible experience, with a more open cabin when the roof is lowered.

The reviewer particularly appreciates the MX-5's:

• • Cute, sporty exterior styling.
  • Low-slung proportions.
  • Compact dimensions.
  • Open-air driving experience.

Practicality is limited. The trunk is small, although the reviewer notes that it can accommodate two small carry-on-size bags for an overnight trip.

The cabin is also quite small, potentially making it uncomfortable for taller occupants, particularly those around six feet tall or more.

3. Performance and Driving Dynamics

The 2026 MX-5 uses a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 181 horsepower and 151 pound-feet of torque.

Both versions are rear-wheel drive and are available with either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission.

The reviewer considers the MX-5 an exceptionally enjoyable summer car, particularly when driving with the roof down.

The manual transmission is the preferred choice because it adds to the car's engaging character. The six-speed automatic, however, remains a good alternative for drivers who cannot or do not want to operate a manual transmission.

While the automatic is still enjoyable, the reviewer believes it sacrifices some of the MX-5's driving excitement.

4. Interior Features and Technology

The MX-5's interior remains largely unchanged for 2026.

One notable update is that the base RF now receives wireless Apple CarPlay, previously reserved for higher trims.

The reviewer also highlights the ability to enable touchscreen functionality while driving. This feature is disabled by default but can be activated through the vehicle's settings.

Interior equipment includes:

• • Wireless Apple CarPlay.
  • Adaptive cruise control.
  • Music and infotainment controls on the steering wheel.
  • Automatic single-zone climate control.
  • Heated front seats.
  • Two USB-C charging ports.
  • Limited storage space.

The GT trim features leather upholstery and Bose speakers integrated into the headrests.

The Canadian GSP with the Sport package features Recaro sport seats with suede inserts, while the U.S. Club model offers Napa leather seating.

5. RF Versus Soft-Top Convertible

The reviewer finds that the soft-top provides a more traditional convertible experience.

Without the large rear section of the RF's retractable hardtop, the soft-top feels more open when the roof is lowered.

Both versions offer the same engine output and rear-wheel-drive configuration, but their personalities differ slightly.

The RF provides a distinctive targa-style appearance, while the soft-top offers a more immersive open-air experience.

The reviewer prefers the manual transmission, although the automatic version remains an appealing option for those who prioritize convenience.

6. Pricing and Final Thoughts

The reviewer provides the following Canadian and U.S. pricing figures:

The soft-top is presented as a more affordable entry point into MX-5 ownership compared with the RF.

The RF's Sport package adds Brembo brakes and Recaro seats, making it a more performance-oriented configuration.

Key Takeaways

• • The 2026 Mazda MX-5 receives minimal changes but remains an exceptionally enjoyable sports car.
  • Its 181-horsepower engine and rear-wheel-drive layout deliver an engaging driving experience.
  • The six-speed manual is the preferred transmission, although the automatic remains a worthwhile alternative.
  • The RF offers distinctive retractable-hardtop styling, while the soft-top provides a more open convertible experience.
  • The MX-5's compact dimensions and limited cargo space are compromises for its fun-to-drive character.
  • Wireless Apple CarPlay is now available on the base RF.
  • The soft-top offers a more affordable entry point, while the RF Sport package adds desirable performance and seating upgrades.

Overall: The 2026 Mazda MX-5 Miata remains a compelling choice for drivers who value driving enjoyment over practicality. Its lightweight proportions, rear-wheel-drive layout, manual transmission, and open-air character make it a particularly appealing summer sports car.