New 2008 Mazda RX-8 Reliability Review [ 2009 , 2007 ]

MSRP: $26,435 - $31,770
Invoice: $24,458 - $29,380
MPG: 16 City / 23 Hwy
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U.S.News Scores

Overall:8.6
Performance:8.6
Exterior:7.4
Interior:7.8
Safety:8.9
Reliability:8.0

Reliability

The 2008 Mazda RX-8 reliability score of 8.0 out of 10 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. Mazda also offers a standard five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty.

The reliability of the RX-8's unconventional engine is an issue for some reviewers. Business Week says that because of the increased maintenance the RX8 requires, "you have to wonder if the rotary engine can match the long-term reliability of a conventional engine. After all, many piston engines don't even require a tune-up in the first 100,000 miles. Also, depending on where you live, it may be hard to find a mechanic experienced in servicing rotary engines." Also, they report that Consumer Reports says the RX8's reliability is worse than average.

J.D. Power Auto Customer Satisfaction J.D.Power Ratings

Initial Quality Ratings

These scores come from consumer ratings of their vehicles after the first few months of ownership.

Feature 2008 2007
Overall Quality - Mechanical
Powertrain Quality - Mechanical
Body & Interior Quality - Mechanical
Features & Accessories Quality - Mechanical
Overall Quality - Design
Powertrain Quality - Design
Body & Interior Quality - Design
Features & Accessories Quality - Design

Dependability Ratings

These scores come from consumer ratings of their vehicles after three years of ownership.

Feature N/A 2004
Overall Dependability
Powertrain Dependability
Feature & Accessory Dependability
Body & Interior Dependability

J.D. Power and Associates Power Circles Ratings do not include all information used to determine J.D. Power and Associates awards. See JDPower.com for more information on Power Circles Ratings. Since driving styles and conditions are unique to each owner, your experience may vary. Furthermore, any Power Circle Ratings based on historic data of past years studies may also reflect different results if current users were again measured.

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Review Last Updated: 7/10/08