| Overall Rating |
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| Description |
| In putting together this comprehensive review covering the 2009 Mazda RX-8 sportscar, the experts at TheCarConnection.com turned to a wide range of critical review voices. TheCarConnection.com’s editors also included their firsthand experience driving the new, high-performance R3 variant. |
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| Road Test |
The Mazda RX-8 is a compact sportscar with a unique engine configuration and an unusual passenger layout. The RX-8 is powered by a Wankel rotary engine and follows a long line of Mazda models (including the respected RX-7) powered by rotary engines. Furthermore, even though it has a very coupelike profile, the RX-8 has seating for four along with two small backdoors that are hinged at the back.
read the full bottom line review |
| Positive Points |
- New styling details and a design that still turns heads
- Go-kart-like handling
- Smooth, rev-happy rotary engine
- Excellent manual transmission
- Tight-as-a-drum build quality
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| Negative Points |
- Very thirsty
- Lack of torque requires frequent downshifting
- Jiggly ride
- Electronic stability control not standard
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