The heart of the Mazda RX-8 is its high-revving, 1.3-liter rotary engine called the Renesis. This, along with balanced suspension tuning, sharp steering and a svelte 3,000-pound curb weight, makes the rear-wheel-drive "Mazda RX-8" one of the best-handling cars on the market. Current Mazda RX-8
The Mazda RX-8 is a four-seat coupe with a pair of rear-hinged "suicide" doors that ease access to the rear seats. Every Mazda RX-8
is powered by a 1.3-liter twin rotary engine, with an output that depends on the transmission. There are three trim levels available: Sport, Grand Touring and R3. Even the base car comes well equipped with 18-inch wheels, performance tires, cruise control, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and a six-speaker CD stereo with an auxiliary audio jack. The Grand Touring gets a limited-slip rear differential, automatic xenon headlights, a power driver seat, memory functions, heated seats, leather upholstery, automatic climate control, keyless ignition/entry, a Bose stereo, Bluetooth and a navigation system. The R3 is a high-performance variant packing 19-inch wheels, an aggressively tuned suspension, Recaro sport seats, exterior body modifications and some of the other trims' high-tech convenience features.
The rotary engine requires high engine speeds to make serious power, but the delivery is virtually vibration-free and noise levels are subdued. Used Mazda RX-8 Models
Introduced for 2004, the Mazda RX-8 heralded the return of the rotary-powered sports car to the United States after a near decade-long hiatus. Initially, the Mazda RX-8 automatic transmission was a four-speed unit.
The 2010 Mazda RX-8 garners a lot of praise for its superb handling dynamics and roomy backseat, but loses points for having insufficient power and a fuel-thirsty, high-maintenance rotary engine.
Distinguishing itself among competitors, the 2010 Mazda RX-8 features a one-of-a-kind "suicide door" design, roomy backseat and impressive handling. Test drivers, however, report that faults with the 2010 Mazda RX-8 performance spoil the fun. The rotary engine that makes this car unique is its biggest liability, however. The 2010 Mazda RX-8 is offered in four trims: Sport, Touring, Grand Touring and R3.