2008 Mazda RX-8: Road Test
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2008 Mazda RX-8 ▼
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- MSRP: $26,435 -$32,070
- Invoice: $24,458 -$29,658
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Our road test for the 2008 Mazda RX-8 includes a full evaluation of the 2008 Mazda RX-8 from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2008 Mazda RX-8, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2008 Mazda RX-8 help you decide if a 2008 Mazda RX-8 is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| Grand Touring w/navigation, manual | 40th Anniversary, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6.7 |
We've only tested manual-transmission RX-8s so far. Though we've not had an opportunity to time it, RX-8 requires lofty engine speeds for maximum acceleration. Its low- and mid-range power is lacking, making it difficult at times to negotiate heavy traffic. Shift action is smooth and precise, though clutch action is heavy.
FUEL ECONOMY
| Grand Touring w/navigation, manual | 40th Anniversary, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 5.5 |
Dismal, even for a performance car. In Consumer Guide testing, our manual-transmission test cars averaged 13.9 mpg in mostly city driving, 16.2-16.7 mpg with more highway use. RX-8 requires premium-grade gas.
RIDE QUALITY
| Grand Touring w/navigation, manual | 40th Anniversary, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 4 | 4.1 |
RX-8's ride shows the expected firmness of a sporty car, but the suspension does a good job of filtering out any harshness. The 40th Anniversary's performance suspension takes a toll on overall ride comfort.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| Grand Touring w/navigation, manual | 40th Anniversary, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 10 | 10 | 8 |
Firm, direct steering, along with great grip and balance make RX-8 a delight. It exhibits minimal body lean while cornering. The brakes deliver good overall stopping control, but the pedal in one test car felt overly sensitive.
QUIETNESS
| Grand Touring w/navigation, manual | 40th Anniversary, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 3.3 |
The engine produces a pleasant, mechanical growl during acceleration and recedes mostly into the background while cruising. Wind rush is minimal, but the tires roar over most pavement surfaces. Sharp bumps triggered some noise from the suspension in one test car.
CONTROLS
| Grand Touring w/navigation, manual | 40th Anniversary, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 5.6 |
The climate controls are simple to use, though they're mounted a bit low for easiest access. The audio system has lots of buttons, but they're all clearly marked. Not all of our testers like the digital readout of climate and audio information on the top of the dashboard. The navigation system doesn't incorporate any other functions, which is a plus, but its operation requires familiarization. When the console cupholders are in use, shifting the manual transmission is awkward.
DETAILS
| Grand Touring w/navigation, manual | 40th Anniversary, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 5 |
Though RX-8's interior is composed of mostly hard plastic, appearance and quality of the interior materials is a cut above those of the Ford Mustang and Nissan 350Z.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| Grand Touring w/navigation, manual | 40th Anniversary, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5.4 |
Most of our testers find it difficult to find a comfortable driving position. The sunroof housing cramps headroom for even average-size adults. Legroom is just adequate. The steering column tilts but isn't telescopic, which further detracts from comfort. The seats are supportive enough but only for those of average girth. Thick rear roof pillars severely compromise aft visibility.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| Grand Touring w/navigation, manual | 40th Anniversary, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | 2 | 1.4 |
Mazda deserves kudos for the RX-8's rear access doors, however, legroom and headroom in the rear seat are best reserved for small children.
CARGO ROOM
| Grand Touring w/navigation, manual | 40th Anniversary, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | 2 | 2.9 |
The trunk has strut-type hinges that don't intrude into the cargo area. The bay is surprisingly deep, but the opening is too small for loading anything larger than small duffel bags. Interior storage is very poor. The door pockets are virtually useless, and the center console is shallow and located in an inconvenient spot aft of the front seats.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| Grand Touring w/navigation, manual | 40th Anniversary, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 6 |
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. Interior comfort also fails to impress, and lofty sticker prices further diminish this sporty car's appeal.
Total Score
| Grand Touring w/navigation, manual | 40th Anniversary, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 55 | 54 | 53.9 |
Total Score: 55
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