Pricing | $26,435 - $31,770 |
---|---|
Drive Types | RWD |
Engines | 1.3l Rotary |
Transmissions | A6, M6 |
Fuel Economy | 16 (city), 22-23 (highway) |
As the only rotary sports car, the RX-8 is a unique vehicle. Although not officially a replacement for the RX-7, this Mazda has essentially taken over the role of its predecessor as Mazda's premium sports car, positioned above the popular MX-5. Although the Nissan 350Z is its direct rival in this sports car segment, the RX-8 offers a radically different driving experience. Powered by a 232-bhp/159 lb.-ft. 1.3L Wankel rotary mated to a 6-speed manual or automatic (engine output drops to 212-bhp with the automatic), the RX-8 offers superb handling, but sacrifices straight-line acceleration in the process. Although Mazda's gearing exploits the Wankel's 9000 RPM redline, the penalty is poor fuel economy and a buzzy engine note on the highway. Available features include Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), 18-inch alloy wheels, navigation system, and Bose 300-watt audio system. Despite its faults, the RX-8 is at home on a tightly curving country road, where its light weight and balanced handling ensure a truly enjoyable experience.
A limited edition RX-8 commemorates the 40th anniversary of Mazda's rotary engines. The 40th Anniversary RX-8 features a Metropolitan Gray exterior/Cosmo Red leather interior color scheme, unique 18-inch alloy wheels, suspension enhancements, fog lamps, silver engine cover and special badging.
Model/Trim/Package | Engine | Original MSRP | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
RX-8 Sport | 1.3l Rotary (212-bhp) | A6 | RWD | $26,435 |
RX-8 Sport | 1.3l Rotary (232-bhp) | M6 | RWD | $26,435 |
RX-8 Touring | 1.3l Rotary (212-bhp) | A6 | RWD | $29,535 |
RX-8 Touring | 1.3l Rotary (232-bhp) | M6 | RWD | $30,335 |
RX-8 Grand Touring | 1.3l Rotary (232-bhp) | M6 | RWD | $31,070 |
RX-8 Grand Touring | 1.3l Rotary (212-bhp) | A6 | RWD | $31,770 |