Mazda Rx-8 Review - a Review of the 2008 Mazda Rx-8 Coupe

The 2008 Mazda RX-8 is fast and reliable, with several features that guarantee speed, comfort, and safety. Interesting features include the Mazda advanced keyless entry and start system and unique “freestyle” doors that provide ease and convenience for a very thrilling ride.

The Mazda RX-8 has several standard safety features like air bags in the front and side for the driver and passengers. Three- point front seatbelts with pretensions and force limiters are also provided. To ensure safety, the RX-8 also has a Tire Pressure Monitoring System and an Anti- lock Brake System. Moreover, it is also equipped with a Dynamic Stability Control with Traction Control System. On the other hand, an alarm system and engine immobilizer also adds protection and security.

This extraordinary sports car has CFC- free air conditioning and heat absorbent tinted glass with sunshade windshield. Moreover, it has front fog lamps and halogen headlights.

The RX-8 also comes with four full- size bucket seats with integrated head restraints, which provide protection against whiplash. In addition, the RX-8 comes with a DVD- navigation system with retractable 7” LCD screen. An AM/FM stereo with single CD player and 6 speakers are also provided.

On the other hand, these models outclass standard sports cars with its powerful RENESIS rotary engine. Its 232- hp 6-speed MT and an impressive 9000 rpm redline make it one of the fastest.

Features such as the moonroof made of power sliding glass with one touch open feature and sunshade provide comfort especially for long rides.

The 2008 Mazda RX-8 is a car that combines speed, safety, class, technology, and road power, living up to its name as “The Sportscar That Never Met Its Match”.

2009 Mazda RX-8 Preview

A refresh and some additional features for Mazda's rotary-powered RX-8 will see it enter the 2009 model year with a sharpened look and the addition of an enhanced performance model. RX-8 is a popular car for shoppers after the racy looks and performance of a coupe, coupled with the added utility and sensibility of a four-door. It's powered by Mazda's unconventional rotary "Renesis" engine, which displaces just 1.3 litres but generates up to 232 horsepower.

Three models comprise the RX-8 lineup: the base "GS", the mid-range "GT" and the new, specially tuned "R3". Standard equipment across the RX-8 lineup has been expanded to include a full suite of high-tech, automatic gadgets like automatic lights, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, an intelligent key system and automatic climate control. Rain sensing wipers are standard as well.

Shoppers will also find MP3 compatibility across the lineup, as well as an alarm system and an enlarged fuel tank that's now good to store 64 litres of premium.

Stepping up to the GT model adds a powered, memory driver's seat, Bluetooth capability, integrated satellite radio, moonroof and push-button front-seat sliding for rear-seat entry. GT models also benefit from black, red or beige leather seating surfaces.

For added performance and killer looks, Mazda's introducing an RX-8 R3 model to their lineup as well. The R3 designated model offers the same features as the GT, but adds a sportier front bumper, side skirts, a raised spoiler and 19-inch wheels. Lightweight Recaro seats are fitted inside, and a performance-tuned Bilstein suspension system helps the R3 clamp down on the pavement. Xenon HID lighting and special leather trim and stitching inside help to complete the package for owners who want a bit more attitude and performance from their RX-8.

In any case, the four-door coupe is powered by a 1.3 liter, multi-side-port rotary engine that develops 212 horsepower when hooked up to the 6-speed automatic transmission, or 232 when twisting the six-speed manual. The automatic gearbox features paddle-shifters on the steering wheel for added driver control, while the slick manual gearbox offers 'flick of the wrist' gear changes with its short-throw shifter.

The rotary engine is characterized by its unique sound, smooth power curve free-revving character. With the six-speed manual gearbox, the RX-8 redlines at a shrieking 9000 rpm, while dashing to 100 km/h in about six seconds. Of course, powerful four-wheel disc brakes are fitted for gut-wrenching stopping power to back up the acceleration. Antilock and brake force distribution are standard.