Mazda was trying to keep it a secret, but everyone knew what was coming: The Japanese automaker has just unveiled a hardtop version of its MX-5 Miata. But even though we suspected it would debut, no one was prepared for how damn sexy it would look.
Called the Mazda MX-5 RF (Retractable Fastback), the sports car made its debut the night before the 2016 New York Auto Show officially begins. Sporting a retractable roof with fastback styling, the Mazda MX-5 RF’s goal is to make open-top driving more accessible. The exterior boasts a smooth roofline that slopes down to the rear end, while its unique rear roof and retractable back window offer a new open-air feeling. According to the Japanese automaker, the power roof can be opened or closed at speeds of up to 6 mph with the press of a button. And despite having a retractable roof, the MX-5 RF has the same cargo space as its soft top counterpart.
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Unfortunately, Mazda didn’t reveal how much more the RF variant weighs, but considering the car they are showing off at the 2016 New York Auto Show is just a prototype, it likely won’t be announced until closer to its launch.
SEE ALSO: 2016 New York Auto Show Coverage
The hardtop Miata has the same underpinnings as the soft top, meaning it is powered by a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 155 horsepower and 148 pound-feet of torque. Customer pre-orders for the Mazda MX-5 RF will begin later this summer ahead of its launch. Although pricing will be announced at a later date, you can expect the hardtop version to cost more than the soft top variant.
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