2008 Mazda RX-8 [ 2007 ]
Based on analysis of 75 RX-8 reviews and test drives.
Mazda RX-8 - What the Auto Press Says
The 2008 Mazda RX-8 ranks 2 out of 8 Affordable Sports Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 75 published reviews and test drives of the Mazda RX-8, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The RX-8's ranking is based on its powerful and lightweight rotary engine, as well as its smooth handling, stylish cabin, and comfortable two-passenger rear seat. Despite its poor fuel economy and frequent maintenance requirements, the RX-8 remains a strong contender within the class of Affordable Sports Cars.
Most auto writers agree that the 2008 Mazda RX-8 is both sporty and practical. "Performance is often synonymous with a pricey and punishing ride. But the Mazda RX-8 defies convention," says Forbes. Still, the RX-8 ranks in the bottom half of its class because its combination of engine power, great handling, and a practical interior can't make up for its poor fuel economy, high-maintenance needs, and less-than-perfect interior construction. On the plus side, the RX-8 is the only affordable sports car with a truly comfortable backseat -- an advantage few shoppers are likely to brush aside.
The 2008 Mazda RX-8 is offered in three trims: Sport, Touring and Grand Touring.
- "No other sporting car on the planet sounds and feels anything like any Mazda Wankel-powered vehicle. Mazda's continuous and relentless development has kept the Wankel smog-legal and relevant for 40 years, and there's no foreseeable end in sight." -- Motor Trend
- "Due to the nature of a rotary engine, it loses trace amounts of oil thanks to the need of lubricating the rotors. This can be a bit of an annoyance, as the oil should be checked after every second fill-up, and will need replacing more often than with piston engines." -- Automobile.com
- "The RX-8 is a true sports car but its rotary engine makes it too inconvenient to appeal to most drivers." -- BusinessWeek
- "Minor grievances aside, the RX-8 is a wonderful automobile, more of a civilized sports coupe than a sports sedan. Prospective owners should be sensitive to the complexities of ownership, as this Mazda tries to be a different type of sports car." -- Road and Track
RX-8 Performance - 8.6 (Very Good)
The RX-8's powerful powertrain and balanced handling dynamics earn it a performance ranking within the top half of its class. "Everyone who drove it enjoyed its sinfully smooth engine and sporty nature," writes Road and Track. Even so, reviewers believe that the RX-8 isn't for everyone -- as its fuel-thirsty rotary engine requires constant maintenance. Continue with our full RX-8 Performance Review to read why one reviewer insists that its manual transmission makes competing systems "feel imprecise by comparison." continue
RX-8 Exterior - 7.4 (Good)
While critics aren't able to reach consensus on whether the RX-8's exterior design is attractive, one thing's for certain -- it's unique. Automobile.com notes, "Massive fender flairs cover 18-inch wheels, front and rear, and give the RX-8 a distinctive appearance that separates it from other sports cars." Compared to other vehicles in its class, the RX-8 ranks in the bottom half for its exterior design. Continue with our full RX-8 Exterior Review to read why critics find the its "suicide doors" burdensome, or go to the 2008 RX-8 Photo Gallery to see pictures of it for yourself. continue
RX-8 Interior - 7.8 (Good)
The RX-8's comfortable backseat helps it earn one of the highest interior scores in the class of Affordable Sports Cars. "The RX-8 reflects the lessons learned from the RX-7. Instead of a cramped two-seater, you have room for four with four doors and a trunk that can carry a set of golf clubs, bringing practicality," writes AutoWeek. Still, reviewers question its build quality. Continue with our full RX-8 Interior Review to learn why test drivers complain about its front seats, or go to the 2008 RX-8 Photo Gallery and see photos of its interior accommodations for yourself. continue
RX-8 Safety - 8.9 (Very Good)
The 2008 Mazda RX-8 performs well in government crash tests -- earning five out of five stars for passenger protection and four out of five stars for driver protection in front crash tests, as well as four stars for both front and backseat protection in side impact crashes. Subsequently, the RX-8 ranks in the top half of its class for safety. Continue with our full RX-8 Safety Review to read about the RX-8's wide array of standard safety features, including Electronic Brake Force Distribution and curtain air bags. continue
RX-8 Reliability - 8.0 (Very Good)
The 2008 Mazda RX-8 reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). Mazda offers coverage on all of its cars, including a three-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty. Continue with our full RX-8 Reliability Review to learn why some critics feel that the RX-8's rotary engine may be a mechanical liability. continue
