Miata (Mx5) Retractable Fast-Back Unveiled at 2016 New York Auto Show, and IT'S SEXY

Mazda has always striven toward offering a vehicle completely focused around driver engagement with its legendary Miata. Becoming the best selling roadster of all time is not an easy task, Mazda had to make the Miata light, fun to drive, fuel efficient and affordable. The Miata succeeded at all of these things, but has always failed in one very important category in my opinion. Looks! Aside from the first generation Miata's which have started to acquire a sort of classic appearance in my eyes, the Miata has never been a car you would want your "bros" to see you in. As amazing as the Miata is to drive, you're bound to hear a joke or two about having hair dressing utensils in your glove box.  Well i have a feeling that is all about to change!

This year at the New York International Auto Show Mazda brought a little surprise, the Mx5 RF! Mazda has offered hard-top models in the past but this has to take the cake as the most attractive Miata ever made.





The RF's power-retractable hard-top is said to add in the neighborhood of 100 lbs to the Miata's total weight; adding extra security and weather resistance, as well as the unquestionably sexy appearance the Mx5 has needed. The 100lb roof will bring the curb weight of the Mx5 up to about 2450lbs.



Not everyone on the internet shares my opinion on the RF, while everyone can seem to agree it's a beautiful vehicle, some are concerned with the added weight sitting right on top of the drivers head. (the worst spot for weight to be) As well as the the lack of structural rigidity given by a retractable hard top versus a fixed hard top.

While there is more rigidity offered through a fixed hard-top, the Mx5 is not a car that suffers from a flexible chassis in the first place. Even in its soft top version! While the weight on top of the drivers head may not be a great thing for spirited driving, it is certainly a good thing when the weather gets bad. Keep the hardtop up on those rainy days and then when you hit the canyons put the top down to put the extra weight directly behind you and over the rear wheels... Right where you want it!

I guess the only way we will truly know how the retractable fast-back effects driving pleasure is to get out for a test drive. The Mx5 RF hits show rooms June 21st this summer.

What do you think about the new Mx5 RF? Do you think its a good thing for the Miata brand? Let me know in the comments below.