Just this week Mazda hit a new milestone, producing its one millionth unit of the Mazda MX-5 Miata after 27 years of production. The sporty roadster draws praise from every corner of the auto world, with its lightweight chassis and go-kart like handling that makes driving it such a thrill. It has a beautiful, award-winning exterior design with svelte curves all over. There's no such thing as a bad angle with this vehicle, and now, the MX-5 is going another step further —just when we thought that wasn't even possible — by offering a targa-roof fastback.

MX-F RF

Mazda first offered a power retractable hardtop on its third-generation MX-5, expanding its buying audience by making open-top driving more accessible. Mazda wanted to continue this tradition in its fourth-generation MX-5, but also wanted to think outside the box, and bring something entirely new to the table. Behold the 2017 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF (retractable fastback). It blends a power-retractable targa top with a gorgeous fastback roofline — not an altogether easy feat. But, what might be more important to enthusiasts, is the fact that Mazda is able to expand its MX-5 Miata lineup without losing the quintessential soul of the vehicle that so many have come to adore.

Its beautiful, Porsche 911 Targa-like design may be the stuff dreams are made of, but its incredibly reasonable starting price means it's a roadster you can actually afford to take home. The fantasy has arrived, and it's one we can all take part in enjoying.

Here are some key highlights of the 2017 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF

  • Drivers simply press a button to retract the top, which opens in 12 seconds and can be performed at speeds up to 6 mph.
  • The targa roof is expected to add a little over 100 pounds to the Miata, but given how well-balanced, and proportionate the current model is, it's hard to imagine this will detract from handling all that much.
  • The designers have managed to keep the exact same trunk space in the RF model, so it will retain the 4.6 cubic feet cargo cubby.
  • Looking at the previous generation's hardtop pricing, we expect the RF variant to add about $2,000 to the MX-5's base price.
  • The drivetrain will remain unchanged, with the standard 2.0-liter Skyactiv four-cylinder, producing 155 hp, paired either to a six-speed manual or automatic transmission.

MX-5 RF

Mazda stated that it will begin taking pre-orders on the 2017 MX-5 Miata RF this summer, with the first models being delivered later this year.

If you're interested in the Mazda MX-5 Miata RF, check out the soft top brother that we recently drove:

Mazda MX-5 Miata

MX-5

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