Summary
Fearsome power, impeccable precision and a low price point make the Mazda RX-8 stand out from the crowd. Its aerodynamic sculpted exterior, six-speed manual transmission and the brand’s famous rotary engine combine to make the RX-8 a blindingly fast machine without ever sacrificing control. The RX-8 was discontinued in 2012, so while that makes it low-priced, the car’s fuel economy makes it costly to run and not the most eco-friendly choice. But if you’re after a sports car that meets practical needs, it's hard to beat.
Safety
The RX-8’s safety features are up to the task of matching the car’s impressive power. You’ll find the following features across all years, from its very first 2004 model:
- Dynamic stability control, which gives you the tools you need to stay on track
- MAIDAS, Mazda’s Advanced Impact Distribution and Absorption System, is oriented around passenger and driver safety
- Reinforced rear doors to provide a brace in the event of side-impact
- Four-wheel disc anti-lock brakes to assist during sudden, fast stops
- Traction control, which helps the car grip the road
- Driver, front passenger and side airbags, protecting you in the event of a crash
Interior
The interior of the RX-8 was designed with performance in mind, but that doesn’t mean it sacrifices any luxury. The rear hinge “freestyle” doors provide easy access to the back seat, a perk that other sports cars lack. The controls are laid out intuitively so they’re easy to reach while driving. Similarly, smartly placed dials are backlit and simple to use, meaning you always have the information you need on hand.
Standard RX-8s come in a cloth trim, but upgraded models bring in leather—and heated seats. Aluminum detailing lets you know you’re in a sports car, while the standard tilt-adjustable leather-wrapped steering wheel allows you to guide your ride in comfort.
Technology
The RX-8 went out of production in 2012, and as a result, it lacks the tech suites of modern vehicles. However, it’s not without its own fun items: A Bose surround-sound audio system, for example, comes standard on all models. Some trims, like the Grand Touring, even include Bluetooth integration and a touchscreen navigation system to help you get where you're going—added in the 2009 model year.
Space
With four doors and four seats, the RX-8 is surprisingly spacious for a sports car. Even the 290 L trunk has far more in the way of cargo space than most other cars in this category. This means the RX-8 isn’t just suitable for racers but has practical applications for driver and passengers, too.
Comfort
The Mazda RX-8’s Renesis rotary engine delivers power and acceleration in a ride that’s far smoother than what sports vehicles with piston engines can deliver, even though the latter type is generally more cost-effective. You can expect fluid, stable handling even at high speeds thanks to the car’s following standard specs from the 2005 model:
- Rear-wheel drive
- Electric power steering
- Balanced weight distribution
- Double-wishbone suspension at the front and multi-link suspension at the rear
