Strengths

Unique, high-revving RENESIS rotary engine, free-flow door system with room for four adults, excellent handling.

 

Changes

For 2009, Mazda's RX-8 gets a restyling that is more "evolution" than "revolution." The front fascia has been updated, with a deeper grille and more aggressive headlights, while the back end features larger exhaust pipes. Inside, the RX-8 gets new seats as well as a revised center console.

Inside, the steering wheel and instrument cluster have been revamped and the tachometer features a "variable red zone," which gets higher as the high-revving Wankel rotary engine warms up to optimal temperature. Other mechanical changes include a revised gear ratio for sportier acceleration, a stiffer front end and revised rear suspension geometry. Fuel tank capacity has increased to 17 gallons.

Sport models get 18-inch wheels and larger front disc brakes. Touring models now incorporate the Performance Package, while adding auto-dimming mirrors, Homelink, and 6-disc CD stereo. Grand Touring cars gain automatic climate control, Bluetooth, rain-sensing wipers, and three-position seat memory.

A new R3 Sport Package positioned above Grand Touring adds a stiffer suspension with Bilstein shocks, 19-inch aluminum wheels, more supportive Recaro front seats, premium Bose stereo, Bluetooth hands-free phone access and rear spoiler. Last year's 40th Anniversary model has been dropped.

 

Value

The 2009 Mazda RX-8 offers a unique driving experience in the automobile world. Not only is the twin-rotor 1.3-liter RENESIS rotary engine the only one of its kind, but no other car in the class offers four doors. Add to the mix an attractive entry price, and the RX-8 easily competes with the Infiniti G35 coupe, Nissan 350Z coupe, and BMW 3-Series coupe.

Mazda has worked to refine the Wankel rotary engine, and the powerplant benefits from fewer moving parts and much better balance than traditional combustion engines. The RX-8's perfect 50-50 weight distribution equates to crisp, nimble handling in all conditions.

 

Overview

The 2009 Mazda RX-8 is the perfect compromise between a pure sports car and a sports sedan. The high-revving rotary engine sounds like nothing else, and the free-flow door system allows four adults easy access to the front and rear seats. The rear seat features a handy fold-down center section that allows long items like skis to extend from the trunk into the cabin.

All RX-8 trim levels--Sport, Touring, Grand Touring and the sporty new R3--are powered by a 1.3-liter Wankel rotary engine. The R3 comes only with a 6-speed manual, while all other RX-8s come equipped with either the 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic with paddle shifters. The manual-equipped car produces 232 hp with a 9,000 rpm redline, while the automatic cars put out 212 hp at 7,500 rpm. The manual version achieves 22 mpg and the automatic, 23 mpg on the highway.

Standard convenience and safety equipment across the model range includes keyless entry, air conditioning, alarm, cruise control, power windows, tire pressure monitor, anti-lock brakes and front, side and curtain airbags.

Touring and Grand Touring models add Xenon headlights and 6-disc CD changer, plus optional power moonroof and Sirius satellite radio. Unique to the Grand Touring car are heated leather seats with power adjustment and automatic climate control. DVD navigation is optional on the Grand Touring.

The R3 is a more performance-oriented model and includes a stiffer suspension with Bilstein shocks, 19-inch aluminum wheels, more supportive Recaro front seats, premium Bose stereo, Bluetooth hands-free phone access and rear spoiler.