2021 Mazda MX-5 RF review - The best affordable sports car that money can buy? UK 4K

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[@CathodeRayNipplez]

Having only two seats and two doors means you've made good life choices.

[@AutoSocialUK]

hahahaha brilliant!

[@liang2133]

LOL

[@BlackNAVYAmericanVET]

Lol 😂

[@Corinthian44]

Yes , I'm on my own , so why would I need more than two seats ?

[@rreichar1]

Nice video! For many years I really discounted the MX-5. Fast forward to 2023 and I bought a 2020 RF GT with only 2700 miles on it. It is the most fun car I’ve ever owned. It’s not the fastest but it feels fast. That’s really all that matters to me.

[@jamescarson7856]

Fair + balanced review Tish, well done! So grateful that companies like Mazda & Toyota are producing these fun-to-drive cars that most people can realistically afford, even though they aren't as profitable compared to SUVs that sell at the bucketloads! I really like what Mazda are doing nowadays- they're trying to get out of that 'budget' image and move onto a premium image by having desirable looking exteriors & interiors, whilst being creative and unconventional compared to their competitors. The 'Soul Red Metallic' is such a lovely colour with how the sun shines on it too!

[@AutoSocialUK]

Hyundai as well I think! You're completely right and I think red is the classic colour for an MX-5, that is the colour my step-dads is in!

[@jeffallinson8089]

I absolutely love the MX-5, they represent such great value and huge smiles for relatively little money.

[@AutoSocialUK]

Couldn't agree more Jeff!

[@jeffallinson8089]

@@AutoSocialUK I am definjitely tempted.

[@leemartin-hine1598]

I love my mx5 RF 2.0 184 sport. I chose it after viewing videos like yours, went to test one and I was hooked.

[@anjaglas5784]

I own this model in the same polymetal grey only with black seats and the 132 PS (horsepower) version and I LOOOVE it. Lots of love from Germany.

[@kevinjohnson2528]

Very well balanced review with a tutorial on what a sports car is all about. An every day driver that comes into its own on drivers' roads no matter where in the world you are. I think it filled the gap left by the miget and roadster from MG and never looked back. Thanks for sharing your thoughts

[@AutoSocialUK]

So very pleased that everyone agrees! :D

[@paulm3033]

Enjoyed the video ,liked that the focus was upon the driving experience rather than too much of the technical stuff, most of which goes over my head .I recently bought an RF Sports Nav automatic and I absolutely love it .I do a lot of driving and I find constantly changing gears detracts from the sheer pleasure of driving this lovely car and the power is most definitely there when you need it ,as well as the sports car growl ..I haven't had this much fun driving since I past my test in 1979.

[@smilepermile8165]

Well presented video Tish. Really appreciate the technical detail you went into explaining the development of this car! Honestly, there's very few cars sold today that I'd happily buy brand new and not mind taking the depreciation hit - this is definitely one of them, alongside the new 911 GT3 Touring and upcoming Toyota GR 86. Not too much fancy technology as you say (or fussy design with fake vents) that will be outdated in 5 years, and a relatively analog driving experience of RWD, manual and naturally aspirated engines in a lightweight package 👌

[@AutoSocialUK]

Not that I really understood what I was saying..... but I am trying hahah!

[@iantaf5559]

Hello, Tish. Seen a few of your reviews now. Just like to say how professional they are and well researched. You are settings a vey high standard. Keep them coming. Best wishes

[@AutoSocialUK]

Thank you Ian, that is so kind. I really appreciate it!

[@tampaguy35]

I have one I Absolutely love it if you enjoy driving you’ll love this car.

[@AutoSocialUK]

Thank you for sharing!

[@knockoutking9548]

Absolutely awesome review Tish! The MX-5 looks so classy and very stylish to say the least! It's such a classic, but retaining all the traditional fundamentals that comes with it! The review by you was top-notch too! Keep up the terrific hard work you're putting in! Can't wait for the next episode dropping soon! 👌🏻👍🏻👏🏻

[@AutoSocialUK]

It is a cool little car, lots of people say they like the old ones better but I really like this! Thank you for your support just like always!

[@richfixescars]

Cool video Tish. You can't beat an MX-5, great value and fun to drive. The Gearknob screws on, so that one just needs another turn. Even better value at £15k at 3 years old, 50% of new price.

[@AutoSocialUK]

Thank you so much for sharing :) That's good to know, I mess with the gear stick whilst driving.... I reckon I loosened it!

[@pittmotoring]

I love the look of the new mx5, it doesn't seem more of a hairdresser car anymore. A nice sports car on a budget. I've driven the older NC and that was a lot of fun, would love to give one of these a go across the North Yorkshire moors 😁. Great review as always tish.

[@AutoSocialUK]

I think I might need to get my hands on my step-dads stage 2 2011 MX-5

[@marroseabrasives9344]

We did the North Coast 500 in the new RF last September, great fun, going up Rosedale Chimney could be interesting!

[@jamiefisher1430]

Such a pleasant surprise to hear younger people who properly understand that the MX-5 is not all about 0-60 or top speed numbers! Great respect Tish 🙌 I do feel bad for those who are over 6ft and can't fit, but I guess it was one of the ways that Mazda had to do to reduce weight - without going for expensive carbon fibre panels! The grumpy men that are insecure about their masculinity and call these 'hairdresser's car' will be the only ones who miss out on how engaging these cars are to drive 🤣

[@AutoSocialUK]

I am really pleased I understand them now.... I can stop bulling my step dad!

[@phillurkin8245]

I like it Tish! This could be the best second car to have some fun in over the weekends, for anyone who can afford that. Mazda is also the Japanese car brand with the best styling, by far!

[@AutoSocialUK]

Think it might be just a little too small for me :)

[@mikewilliams6323]

Totally agree. I think Mazda has the best styled car range than anyone else. When you think BMW's Audi's Mercs -All just look the same!

[@paranormalpendle5920]

I'm seriously thinking of the RF, but at 6ft 2" tall, I may struggle. I suppose the only way to find out is to have a test drive.

[@artie2070]

Love these cars - as you say they've always remained the same small size which makes them so popular

[@AutoSocialUK]

winning formula!

[@BenofYoutube]

Difference between the roof on the MX5 and your Abarth, is that the mx5 is the whole roof moving which is why you have to go slower. The Abarth is only the middle so makes little difference to what speed you're going.

[@AutoSocialUK]

Yes very good point. bad comparison but 5mph is sloooooow

[@klx100]

Keep up the good work Tish! :) you defintely rock 😃😃

[@whitemoor66]

Great cars. You hit the nail on the head too when you said it's not all about power with this car. Have to be the fabric roof for me though.

[@AutoSocialUK]

I completely agree, suits the striped-back feel

[@andypalin3287]

The pedal box is perfect ...dear! 😜

[@benmarr352]

Good to see an everyman/woman review. I'm a full on petrolhead so good for me to see how normal people look at cars. Interested to know why you chose a 595.

[@AutoSocialUK]

Thank you! I'll be honest, it was circumstantial more than anything. One came up on a flexi-lease that worked for me. I am not a huge fan of it

[@ConquerDriving]

I don't think it's normal to be able to twist the gear knob. I'll have to try it on mine. Totally agree with you about the pedals, when I first drove one I used the brake when I wanted the gas. Got used to it very quickly though.

[@AutoSocialUK]

It may just be me that finds thing like this 😂

[@loryang3560]

Turn the shift knob clockwise to tighten it. Turn it counter-clockwise to remove the shift knob. Why would you need to remove it, you ask? -- To "tune" it or personalize it with an aftermarket shift knob.

[@StreetFlys]

All the way from California, I’d like to say, I love the MX5, I love that color combo, I don’t think it’s available in the US, and you’re super cute.

[@romss3921]

WoW i really love this car 🔥😍 good review Tish

[@AutoSocialUK]

Thank you so much!

[@chrislox1]

I admire anyone who has this car. We would get on for sure!

[@AutoSocialUK]

You'll like my step-dad then!

[@karmannarain7617]

Lol

[@cincyrovers]

Great video, Tish! The ND MX-5 Club (which has the Bilstein dampers and BBS wheels) is in my top 10 best cars I’ve driven, full stop. It did have a lot of body roll, but that made it fun. We only get the 2.0, and that engine is a sweetheart, I love how it revs all the way to 7500rpm while still being pretty smooth. Would be interested to see what you think of the Abarth 124 as well!

[@AutoSocialUK]

Thats really interesting, thank you for sharing! I would LOVE to try a 124... I've heard good things!

[@cincyrovers]

@@AutoSocialUK I’ve driven the Abarth 124 as well, and it’s definitely stiffer than the MX-5 and doesn’t have the body roll. Engine in the 124 is nowhere near as entertaining as it is in the 500; it lacks the sound, and the turbo lag is tremendous.

[@mg141au]

Very well presented review. The camera work is outstanding. Great work glad you experienced the MX-5.

[@trandat4]

The hard top is just a regular sedan with huge sun roof. You need the soft top to really feel the air.

[@DaveDVideoMaker]

The MX-5 belongs in the cool section of my cool board. Speaking of the cool board, I’m making a new one, cos the previous one isn’t big enough. I’ve just gotta add more photos of cars onto various sections of the board.

[@UKArtlover]

I like the horn rims Tish , great for car reviews ( beep beep) 😄

[@tomaszstarzZz]

The review was very good but to be perfect, she should launch it and take it on a track to show how well it holds on the road

[@craigtrigg4288]

love it tish i think you should have one next great mx5 review stay safe

[@AutoSocialUK]

I think it’s a little bit too small for me Craig 😁

[@craigtrigg4288]

@@AutoSocialUK ok what would you have next big surprise for your channel

[@craigtrigg4288]

@@AutoSocialUK sorry tish i love all your cars you drive

[@chrisroberts5299]

Great review - I'm waiting (not so) patiently 😃 for my GT RF to arrive

[@robinholmescnx]

Anyone hating the MX5 must be strange. It's more fun for the money apart from a 125 two stroke dirt bike.

[@AutoSocialUK]

I agree!

[@mkrete]

You are only a hater of the MX-5 if you've never driven one. The car is an absolute blast to drive. It has some tech items, but its mostly just you and the road. Taking it through some nice turns and you see immediately how there is nothing else like it. Its a balanced and well designed little sports car for people who like to drive The BRZ and 86 come close to it, but not quite. Abarth is not even in the same quality category.

[@AutoSocialUK]

Thank you for sharing your thoughts!

[@peterlewis3540]

An MX5 is not about speed, its all about driver involvement and a sense of speed. The 1.5 twin Cam engine feels a lot faster than it actually is, so you do not buy an MX5 for its speed or acceleration.

[@AutoSocialUK]

Agreed Peter!!

[@petermartin9494]

Wow, there is just something so sexy about a young lady who talks about cars and knows what she is talking about. Well done.

[@AutoSocialUK]

Thank you Peter. Don’t really do it for the sex appeal but I appreciate it none the less

[@danmccarthy4700]

I've had a 1st-gen Mercedes SLK for 8 years now and I wonder almost daily whether I should've gone with a MX-5 instead.

[@AutoSocialUK]

They likely both have their pro's and con's! What has the Merc's reliability been like?

[@danmccarthy4700]

@@AutoSocialUK It's been ok for the past 2 years or so but before that the security system went haywire on a regular basis... and any time the security system fails it basically bricks the car.

[@nalomike6066]

leaning on a vehicle especially with jeans is a no no. some jeans have rivets.

[@AutoSocialUK]

arrest me.

[@Corinthian44]

The only people who hate it , ( apart from snobs ) , are people who's social circumstances make them unable to own one ! They will buy one , when circumstances change .

[@AutoSocialUK]

Thank you for sharing your thoughts

[@lucianolucidi8624]

If i got you well you have a 124 abarth? Well. I need your help then. I am italian and i love the 124 spider as a design. I just already have a mutiair egine with 170hp on my little Alfa romeo Giulietta. I go to the point.. i am considering to get an mx5 rf 2.0 184hp instead the 124 because of the aspirated engine of the mazda and also because the RF looks so special and more practical for the winter use. What do you think about it?

[@funtom4738]

Really cool car, outside color is not my favorit, but it is ok... insinde color is an absolutly no go... my test drive, was in one of this models... but then I change to a red one with black leather inside to replace my 25 year old Toyota Paseo Cabrio. And.. it is so different

[@dgw6448]

Do you really need a rear view camera on a vehicle which is only 1m longer than the back of your seats !?

[@MiniEggs1999]

Nice bit of editing with the wheel insert 👍

[@AutoSocialUK]

Thank you!

[@seanconboy2894]

You mentioned the bilsteins on that model could you cope with regular long drives I wonder? Seats comfy?!!

[@ScoobGruber]

I own one, I don't get the pedal thing. They seem normal to me

[@cycleofzyad9321]

Question, dealership in my country only bring RF Automatic transmission and I did ask them if it has Apple CarPlay or not and they don’t know, do you think all new RF comes with Apple CarPlay or not?

[@jimh8644]

Looks great except for the hideous euro license plate (can they make it any larger??)

[@maybeerainmaybeesnow]

Thank you! Beautiful woman, beautiful car!!

[@patrickh7368]

I love the MX5 I owned a 1.8 mk 3.5 for three years, loved it . I do understand the 2.0 is lower and firmer (different shocks) I also like the RF version but notice the demo cars are always the 2.0 , I would love to know your opinion on the 1.5 as the suspension setup and weight distribution was (I understand) set for this Mk 4 version and again (I understand) feels more nimble on the B roads. Perhaps Mazda would let you try one?

[@AutoSocialUK]

That would be very interesting. I will try to test out the smaller engine!

[@DaBinChe]

That antenna seem much long than my 2016ND N.American market Club.

[@tekis0]

"My Abarth"? Now you're adorable AND cool?!

[@AutoSocialUK]

😅😅😅😅😅

[@robertlloyd7493]

Good review yes I am a big fan with my NB version 👍

[@AutoSocialUK]

Thank you for watching!

[@johnny_bravo9990]

Did you just 7:57 put the car in first gear on the turn 😄

[@rajestate4364]

10:17 I'm your lover!!😍😍😂

[@nathanhacking1]

Great video 👌

[@AutoSocialUK]

Thanks Nathan!

[@anthonydavid1965]

Hi. Surely this is a GT Sport Tech. I’m sure you and/or the dealer at Colchester have got this wrong, as this spec isn’t available in the Sport Tech model? I’ve just checked the Mazda website and only a black interior is available in the Sport Tech model. Also only the GT model has black wing mirrors, the Sport Tech mirrors are body coloured. I’m confused🤔

[@AutoSocialUK]

No you’re correct, that’s my fault. It’s the GT Sport Tech RF

[@anthonydavid1965]

@@AutoSocialUK No worries, us MX owners are quite obsessive🤣

[@DaveDVideoMaker]

The MX-5 is known as the Miata in the US and A.

[@peterkirton4580]

The only trouble with theMX5 is that it is too small for anyone over 6ft, I am 6ft 2inch

[@AutoSocialUK]

I would say try purchasing a shoe horn?

[@IverGameplays]

N O I I C E ! ! 👍🏼👍🏼

[@stuco81]

It's a cool looking car. I just feel the entire mazda range is somewhat underpowered...

[@DaveDVideoMaker]

I have to agree. Like, they managed to extract just 122 horsepower from a 2-litre engine (the same horsepower as a diesel).

[@richfixescars]

The 2.0 litre MX-5 is 184ps. Mazda don't like using turbos as they are unreliable. In fact of you read small turbo engines are being phased out bigger na engines are coming for lower emissions.

[@DaveDVideoMaker]

@@richfixescars They’re using turbo engines in their 250hp 2.5-litre found in the Mazda CX-9, 3 and CX-30, but these are not available in Europe. But you can find these in the United States.

[@jamescarson7856]

stuco81 Engines are very expensive to develop, and Mazda are a much smaller company than Toyota, VW Group, BMW etc. So for how limited in budget and employees they have, I'd say they're doing the best they can.

[@redross7946]

Nice one Tish

[@AutoSocialUK]

cheers!!

[@jamesclarkson3009]

Good review but you got the digits wrong way round. Its 6.5 seconds 0-60 not 5.6 haha.

[@karmannarain7617]

No, it is 5.6 seconds 0-69

[@jamesclarkson3009]

@@karmannarain7617 tbf I have read that the latest 2023 cars can do 0-60 in less than 6 seconds. But at the time this video was made, officially, it was 0-60 in 6.5 seconds.

[@biggerbitcoin5126]

THIS GIRL MUST BE TINY BECAUSE SHE makes the car look big

[@AutoSocialUK]

hahaha I am actually not tiny

[@biggerbitcoin5126]

@@AutoSocialUK ok you know you. When I sat inside this car I just couldn't really fit....it was just too tiny but you make it look huge...anyway keep up the great vids

[@DarkstarDarth]

It's the most low maintenance sports car you can buy.....$27k to $34k is not that cheap, a decent used boxster cost the. Same.

[@AutoSocialUK]

And then see how many problems you have maintaining a ‘cheap’ Boxster. I agree it’s an option but you need deep pockets.

[@craigtrigg4288]

i found out that ford is doing a 24hour test drive i might be test driving new ford puma

[@AutoSocialUK]

The Puma is lovely Craig!

[@craigtrigg4288]

@@AutoSocialUK thanks tish for your help

[@loryang3560]

Wait, you are knocking on the MX5 because it has a removable shift knob?!?!? That's where I stopped the video.

[@AutoSocialUK]

Hey, I'm not an MX-5 expert so happy to be educated on things. So, it is designed to be removable?

[@odinikita4821]

5.6 seconds? Never seen any test where the mx5 gets better than 5.9. Hmm. Anyway love the mx5 even the 1.5 and 8.3 seconds aint slow....modern cars are just too quick with all the crazy low speed limits and over zealous revenue raising tools, ie cops.

[@erickelly4107]

5.7 seconds for 0-60mph for the Club and 5.8 seconds for the ~112lbs heavier RF version (Car & Driver). So yes the 2019+ ND2 MX-5 Miata can easily get to 60mph in under 6.0 seconds and the 1/4m in 14.4. These times are perfectly in line with the cars power to weight ratio, not surprising in the least. 8.3 seconds is more like merely adequate, nothing resembling "quick" when a regular Honda Civic can reach 60mph in under 7.0 seconds.

[@Youtubesmyson]

0-60 is 6.8 not 5. Whatever

[@Roger-ff3cu]

It's a beauty tish, like little tish xx

[@AutoSocialUK]

Thank you Roger!

[@kencur9690]

Thank you Roger!

[@M123OCT]

It's lost its classic MX5 look. The previous incarnation was much more attractive.

[@AutoSocialUK]

I don’t think so, I guess it just looks a bit meaner… whereas the previous gen was more friendly?

[@Dano-MX5]

I had an NB, an NC and an ND. The previous incarnation looked like a fat frog when compared to the present one.

[@Osiwan960]

"nice, very sexy body" "the car or the girl?" "both" 😉

[@Braydenrobbo23]

I got the notification late

[@DaveDVideoMaker]

And plus, this was uploaded 24 hours later than usual. The reason for this is given in her community post.

[@michaelanderson7715]

clueless

[@user-vr1pj9mt7h]

My Abarth, my Abarth, oh and my Abarth🥹

[@adriancoppin977]

Elocution for the masses springs to mind…

[@IMTHEBIGGESTCUNT]

Driving it like a loon will no doubt result in ‘big skids’ in your pants! 😂