Bermaz Motor has officially introduced the updated Mazda MX-5 RF to the local market, packing an uprated 2.0-litre SkyActiv-G motor, improved ergonomics and enhanced connectivity.
Starting with the oily bits, the 2.0-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder SkyActiv-G petrol engine has been revised with lighter pistons and con-rod, revised camshaft, exhaust valves, fuel injectors, throttle valve and recalibrated air intake settings.
With that, the engineers have managed to squeeze an additional 24 hp and 5 Nm from the 2.0-litre engine to final output of 181 hp and 205 Nm of torque. Redline has also been raised to 7,500 rpm from 6,800 rpm. As a result, the 2.0-litre MX-5 RF is now half a second quicker (6-speed auto) when sprinting from 0 to 100 km/h.
While the increased performance brings a more engaging driving experience, it did not come at the expense of efficiency. Thanks to a more efficient combustion cycle, improved i-ELOOP and stop-start technology, the revised engine is compliant to the Euro 6d Temp emission regulations.
Transmission options for the local market remain as before with a 6-speed automatic or manual option. Mazda claims that the transmission has been tweaked for smoother operation in the city. Not only that, but the exhaust silencer also spots a revised architecture to give a cleaner and stronger tone.
Other than the mechanicals, changes to the 2019 MX-5 RF are minimal with the newly added telescopic function for the multifunctional steering wheel – the first in an MX-5, 7.0-inch colour TFT LCD multi-info display and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity.
Unfortunately, prices have gone up across the board, with the MX-5 RF (MT) now priced at RM259,154 while the MX-5 RF (AT) priced at RM260,354, prices quoted are on-the-road without insurance.
That makes the 6-speed manual some RM37k dearer and the 6-speed auto variant RM33k more expensive from before. Regardless, both variants come with a comprehensive 5-Years/100,000 km Warranty and Free Scheduled Maintenance.
There are 7 exterior shades available for the fully imported 2019 Mazda MX-5 – Soul Red Crystal, Machine Gray, Jet Black, Snowflake White Pearl, Eternal Blue, Ceramic Metallic and Artic White.
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Updated 2019 Mazda MX-5 RF
