Acceleration

Grand Touring w/navigation, manual	Class Average
6	6.7

We've only tested a manual-transmission RX-8 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.

Fuel Economy

Grand Touring w/navigation, manual	Class Average
4	5.1

In Consumer Guide testing, our manual-transmission test car averaged 16.2 mpg in mostly city driving. RX-8 requires premium-grade gas.

Ride Quality

Grand Touring w/navigation, manual	Class Average
4	4.3

RX-8's ride shows the expected firmness of a sporty car, but the suspension does a good job of filtering out any harshness. No opportunity to test R3 sport package.

Steering/Handling/Braking

Grand Touring w/navigation, manual	Class Average
9	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	Class Average
4	3.4

The engine produces a pleasant, mechanical growl during acceleration and recedes nicely 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	Class Average
7	5.2

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, and its operation requires familiarization. When the console cupholders are in use, shifting the manual transmission is awkward.

Details

Grand Touring w/navigation, manual	Class Average
6	4.7

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	Class Average
4	5.9

Most of our testers found 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	Class Average
2	2

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	Class Average
2	3.2

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	Class Average
4	6.2

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	Class Average
52	54.7

Scores for all Sporty/performance Cars

Low Score		42
Average Score		54
High Score		70