Mazda MX-5 RF 2.0 SkyActiv AT with Nappa Leather Interior (2017) vs BYD Tang DM-i (2026)
A full spec-by-spec comparison of Mazda MX-5 RF 2.0 SkyActiv AT with Nappa Leather Interior (2017) vs BYD Tang DM-i (2026) — engine, performance, dimensions, features and price, with the differences highlighted to help you decide.
| Specification | Mazda MX-5 RF 2.0 SkyActiv AT with Nappa Leather Interior (2017) Mazda ₱2,280,000 | BYD Tang DM-i (2026) BYD ₱2,148,000 |
|---|---|---|
| Overview | ||
| Model Year | 2017 | 2026 |
| Warranty | 100,000km/3-years | 6 years or 150,000 km |
| Availability | Current | Current |
| Engine & Drivetrain | ||
| Engine Type | Inline-4 | Inline-4 |
| Displacement | 1998cc | 1498cc |
| Valvetrain | DOHC 16-valve | DOHC 16-valve |
| Aspiration | Naturally Aspirated, S-VT | Turbocharged |
| Fuel Type | Gas | PHEV |
| Max Power | 160 PS @ 6000 rpm | 271 PS |
| Max Torque | 200 Nm @ 4600 rpm | 315 Nm |
| Transmission | 6-Speed A/T | Automatic 6-Speed |
| Drivetrain | RWD | FWD |
| Body & Dimensions | ||
| Body Type | Coupe | Midsize Crossover SUV |
| Segment | S | Crossover |
| Construction | Unibody | Unibody |
| Doors | 2 | 5 |
| Seating Capacity | 2 | 2+3+2 |
| Length (mm) | 3915 | 4870 |
| Width (mm) | 1735 | 1950 |
| Height (mm) | 1230 | 1720 |
| Wheelbase (mm) | 2310 | 2820 |
| Curb Weight (kg) | 1063 | 2130 |
| Exterior Colors | — | Moonstone Grey, Pearl White, and Silver Sand Black |
| Fuel Tank (L) | — | 53 |
| Chassis, Wheels & Brakes | ||
| Front Suspension | Double Wishbone | MacPherson Strut w/Coil Spring |
| Rear Suspension | Independent Multi-Link | Multi-link with Coil Spring |
| Front Wheels | 17x7.0-inch alloys | 20 |
| Rear Wheels | 17x7.0-inch alloys | 20 |
| Front Tires | 205/45/R17 | 255/55R20 |
| Rear Tires | 205/45/R17 | 255/55R20 |
| Front Brakes | Disc | Ventilated Disc |
| Rear Brakes | Disc | Solid Disc |
| Steering Type | hydraulic | EPS |
| Steering Column | tilt | Tilt & Telescope |
| Tire Pressure Monitoring | No | Yes |
| Differential Lock | No | No |
| Safety | ||
| Anti-lock Braking (ABS) | Yes | Yes |
| Electronic Brakeforce Distribution | Yes | Yes |
| Brake Assist | No | No |
| Parking Sensors | No | No |
| Stability Control | No | No |
| Traction Control | No | No |
| Vehicle Dynamic Control | No | Yes |
| Forward Collision Mitigation | No | No |
| Blind Spot Warning | No | No |
| Hill Start Assist | No | Yes |
| Hill Descent Control | No | Yes |
| Auto Stop/Start | No | No |
| Driver Airbag | No | No |
| Knee Airbag | No | No |
| Passenger Airbag | No | No |
| Front Curtain Airbags | No | No |
| Rear Curtain Airbags | No | No |
| Rear Side Airbags | No | No |
| Engine Immobilizer | No | Yes |
| Security Alarm | Yes | Yes |
| Door Locking | Central Locking | Central Locking |
| Comfort & Convenience | ||
| Air Conditioning | Dual Zone Climate Control | Automatic Climate Control Dual Zone |
| Rear A/C Vents | Yes | Yes |
| Seat Material | Leather | Leather |
| Parking Brake | Manual | EPB |
| Key Type | Keyless Entry | Keyless Entry |
| Push-Button Start | No | No |
| Cruise Control | No | Yes |
| Multi-Info Display | Yes | Yes |
| Paddle Shifters | No | No |
| Reverse Camera | No | No |
| Auto Headlights | No | No |
| Power Windows | Yes | Yes |
| Power Seats | No | Yes |
| Remote Trunk Release | No | Yes |
| Eco Mode | No | No |
| Antenna | yes | yes |
| Infotainment & Audio | ||
| Touchscreen | Yes | Yes |
| Navigation | No | No |
| Bluetooth | Yes | Yes |
| Apple CarPlay | No | Yes |
| Android Auto | No | No |
| USB | Yes | No |
| AUX Input | Yes | No |
| AM/FM Radio | Yes | Yes |
| CD Player | Yes | No |
| DVD Player | Yes | No |
| MP3 Playback | Yes | No |
| iPod Support | No | No |
| SD Card Slot | No | No |
| Speakers | — | 12 |
| Lighting | ||
| Headlights | LED | LED |
| Fog Lights | Yes | No |
| Daytime Running Lights | No | Yes |
Mazda MX-5 RF 2.0 SkyActiv AT with Nappa Leather Interior (2017) vs BYD Tang DM-i (2026): which should you buy?
The 2017 Mazda MX-5 RF 2.0 is the better choice for a Filipino buyer prioritizing classic driving dynamics and affordability. Its price of ₱2,280,000 is ₱132,000 less than the ₱2,148,000 BYD Tang DM-i, yet it delivers identical 160 PS of power. The MX-5 offers a 2-seater coupe experience with a naturally aspirated engine, while the BYD Tang, a 5-door crossover, trades that for a PHEV drivetrain with 271 PS and a 2+3+2 seating layout. The MX-5's 100,000 km/3-year warranty provides long-term peace of mind, whereas the BYD's 6-year or 150,000 km coverage is shorter. For most daily commutes, the MX-5's rear-wheel-drive stability and lightweight construction are advantageous, though the BYD's 5-door space is useful for occasional cargo. Budget-conscious buyers should lean toward the MX-5, while those valuing power and versatility in a crossover may prefer the BYD.
Frequently asked questions
Which is cheaper?
The 2017 Mazda MX-5 RF 2.0 costs ₱2,280,000, while the 2026 BYD Tang DM-i is priced at ₱2,148,000.
Which is more powerful?
The BYD Tang DM-i produces 271 PS, 111 PS more than the 160 PS from the Mazda MX-5 RF 2.0.
Which is better for daily commuting?
The Mazda MX-5 RF 2.0's rear-wheel-drive layout and 2-seater design are suited for urban daily drives, whereas the BYD Tang DM-i's front-wheel-drive and 5-door configuration offer more versatility.
What is the warranty duration?
The Mazda MX-5 RF 2.0 has a 100,000 km/3-year warranty, while the BYD Tang DM-i offers 6 years or 150,000 km.