What Car? Q&A - Does the Mazda RX-8 use a lot of oil?

Q: I have heard rumours that the Mazda RX-8 has high oil consumption. Is this true? As a prospective buyer I am concerned that it could drastically increase the cost of ownership.
John Phillips

A: Like all rotary-engined cars, the RX-8 does have a thirst for the oil. What Car? experienced this first-hand when we ran a Mazda RX-8 for a year – during this time the car needed a litre of oil every 2000 miles, and Mazda recommends that the oil level is checked every other visit to the petrol station. Depending on your annual mileage, it could increase your ownership costs slightly, but shouldn’t break the bank.