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In putting together this comprehensive review covering the 2009 Mazda RX-8 sportscar, the experts at TheCarConnection.com turned to a wide range of critical review voices. TheCarConnection.com's editors also included their firsthand experience driving the new, high-performance R3 variant.
Likes:
- New styling details and a design that still turns heads
- Go-kart-like handling
- Smooth, rev-happy rotary engine
- Excellent manual transmission
- Tight-as-a-drum build quality
Dislikes:
- Very thirsty
- Lack of torque requires frequent downshifting
- Jiggly ride
- Electronic stability control not standard
The Mazda RX-8 is a compact sportscar with a unique engine configuration and an unusual passenger layout. The RX-8 is powered by a Wankel rotary engine and follows a long line of Mazda models (including the respected RX-7) powered by rotary engines. Furthermore, even though it has a very coupelike profile, the RX-8 has seating for four along with two small backdoors that are hinged at the back.
For 2009, the RX-8 gets some minor alterations to improve performance and ride quality, several new features, and subtle styling changes inside and out; furthermore, a new high-end R3 model joins the lineup, adding a track-ready appearance and more performance goodies.
Even five years after its introduction, the Mazda RX-8 still has an exterior design that turns heads. The low-slung coupe has a rather long, low hoodline and lipped wheel wells that help accentuate sporty wheel designs and low-profile performance tires. Especially notable is the RX-8's rakish side profile, with rear glass that continues the same smooth arc of the roofline to meet the rear decklid. For 2009, there are a number of minor changes on the outside, including turn signal lamps that have been integrated into larger headlamps units, a redesigned front fascia and grille, and a slightly different tail lamp design.
The interior has a unified low-slung, cockpit-centric appearance, with a matte-metallic-trimmed center console that runs from the instrument panel all the way back. The instrument panel flows smoothly. Generously bolstered front seats provide plenty of comfort and support, along with enough space for taller adults, but the two rear bucket seats are only for kids. The 2009 RX-8 Mazda also gets freshened a bit inside, with a new steering wheel design, a more smoothly contoured instrument panel, and improved materials.
