2009 Mazda RX-8
- 2008 Mazda RX-8
- Used Mazda RX-8
Based on analysis of 89 RX-8 reviews and test drives.
Mazda RX-8 - What the Auto Press Says
The 2009 Mazda RX-8 ranks 1 out of 8 Affordable Sports Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 89 published reviews and test drives of the Mazda RX-8, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The Mazda RX-8 receives praise for its great handling dynamics and roomy backseat, but loses points for having insufficient power and a fuel-thirsty, high-maintenance rotary engine.
Five years after its introduction, the '09 RX-8 receives a light refresh that enhances its aggressive exterior design, and adds a driver-focused R3 trim to the mix.
Setting the RX-8 apart from its competitors are its unique "suicide door" design, roomy back seat, and impressive handling. However, reviewers find that faults with the RX-8's performance spoil the fun. "Providing sports-car performance along with four-passenger capacity, the 2009 Mazda RX-8 would be the ultimate in a practical sports car were it not for its SUV-like fuel economy and lack of torque," writes Edmunds.
Another point of contention is the RX-8's rotary engine -- which, although masterfully engineered, requires constant maintenance. Those unfamiliar with what's under the hood are better off with a traditional sports coupe, like the all-new Nissan 370Z. However, if what you really want is a four-seater that just looks the part of a sports car, the Scion tC makes a great choice.
The 2009 Mazda RX-8 is offered in four trims: Sport, Touring, Grand Touring, and R3.
- "If you're looking for an inexpensive sports car, but need room for child seats or extra passengers, the RX-8 is worth a look. Additionally, the R3 model has turned the RX-8 into a true driver's car with a chassis that is up there with the greats like the Mitsubishi EVO. Still, we can't help thinking that the RX-8 needs something and that something is power." -- Automobile Magazine
- "With a unique and sporty design, the 2009 Mazda RX-8 R3 will turn heads, but it doesn't quite live up to its looks, and Mazda left out some key tech elements." -- CNET
- "RX-8 delights for its exceptional handling ability and slick-shifting manual transmission. The rotary engine that makes this car unique is its biggest liability, however. It feels underpowered and delivers subpar fuel economy. " -- Consumer Guide
- "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 - 8.4 (Very Good)
Test drivers find that the RX-8 handles exceptionally well, but are disappointed with its lack of torque and thirsty engine. "Its low- and mid-range power is lacking, making it difficult at times to negotiate heavy traffic," writes Consumer Guide. What's more, it's the only production vehicle that features a rotary engine sold in the United States. continue
RX-8 Exterior - 7.6 (Good)
The RX-8's aggressive exterior design is refreshed for the 2009 model year. Though its unconventional -- even sometimes controversial -- styling isn't drastically changed, it's still welcomed by most critics. "If you squint hard, you can see the changes to the RX-8's exterior, though the signature bulbous fender flares remain," writes Road and Track. "Restyled items include the front and rear bumpers, front fascia, head- and taillights and new larger-diameter exhaust outlets." However, it isn't without its quirks. While its "suicide doors" help passengers enter the cabin, they complicate their exit. continue
RX-8 Interior - 7.9 (Good)
Despite its lack of cargo room, reviewers like the RX-8 for its stylish interior design and roomy back seat. "It's hard to believe you can get pragmatic backseats in a car that looks like this," writes Forbes. Even so, its front seats are an entirely different story. continue
RX-8 Safety - 8.7 (Very Good)
The RX-8 performs well in crash tests conducted by the federal government. continue
RX-8 Reliability - NA
The Mazda RX-8 features a three-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty. Its powertrain is covered for five years or 60,000 miles. Even more, its rotary engine features a new extended warranty. continue
