Mazda RX-8 Coupe full 9 point review
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Performance
Mazda is the only manufacturer to use a rotary engine, which uses spinning rotors rather than cylinders. The 1.3-litre unit in the R3 produces 228bhp, which means performance is strong, with a high 9000rpm rev limit and distinctive sound. The R3 has a six-speed gearbox that makes you want to swap cogs just for the joy of it.
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Ride & Handling
Balancing the ride and handling of a sporty car is a tricky job but one Mazda has pulled off. The low-speed ride is firm but not jerkily so and the R3 is very comfortable at high speeds. But it’s the body control that truly impresses: no matter what the surface or how tight the corner, the RX-8 just keeps on gripping.
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Refinement
There is a very distinct note to the rotary engine when it is revved. The sound has a pleasing edge that lets the driver know the car is working hard. Road- and wind noise is isolated well from the cabin and the RX-8 makes a good long-distance cruiser as well as <\n>a fine back-road blaster.
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Buying & Owning
The R3 undercuts the equivalent Audi TT - but not by much. Given the amount of standard equipment, the Mazda is good value. Only the car’s fuel economy and emissions spoil things, with the RX-8 falling into the top 35% company car tax bracket.
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Quality & Reliability
Being a Mazda, owners can expect clockwork reliability and build quality that is extremely good. The cars we have driven have been constructed with care. The rotary engine should present no problems because Mazda has been building it for decades and it has won a reputation for durability.
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Safety & Security
Even though there is no central door pillar, the rear door’s leading edge is heavily reinforced to create a 'virtual' pillar when closed, for safety in a side impact. Twin front, side and curtain airbags are standard, as are stability and traction controls. The RX-8 has followed other Mazda cars and scored reasonably well in our security tests.
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Behind The Wheel
The driver of the RX-8 has electric adjustment for the seat, helping towards a great driving position. Steering adjustment is for height only but most drivers should be able to make themselves comfortable. In true Mazda tradition, all the controls are logically laid out in the stylish cabin.
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Space & Practicality
Mazda’s clever reverse-hinged rear doors allow excellent access to a pair of individual rear seats that can accommodate adults with ease. There's also a reasonable boot that can cope with a couple of suitcases, making the RX-8 a very practical for a coupe.
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Equipment
Mazda has loaded the RX-8 with plenty of kit. Foremost on the list is the superb Bose sound system with no fewer than nine speakers and excellent sound quality. There’s also climate control and 18-inch alloy wheels. Optional extras are limited to metallic paint, electric sunroof, leather seats and satellite-navigation.
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