CD Article: 2009 Mazda RX8 R3

[CD_Editor]

Test Drive:


"This nearly six-year-old design..still turns heads," says Contributing Editor, Chris Chase. The new-for-2009 R3 trim brings 19-inch wheels, unique front bumper, side sills and skirts to enhance the RX-8's already shapely exterior, he says.
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[Turbo Bob]

Even though it's getting on a bit, that car is frickin' gorgeous!!

And the seats are fantastic too, it looks awesome in white...

[Eric Green]

I drove my buddy's last-gen RX7- what a track car (until the motor grenaded itself), and also drove a new RX7 in ~81. So I am familiar with the Wankel, and would certainly consider putting one in a Lotus 7 clone. I give Mazda full credit for exploring the concept. A fast, lithe sports coupe. Likely, the RX8 is as far as this engine can be commercially advanced.

But, I can't help wondering if Mazda could simply put one of its excellent Otto cycle motors with DI into the RX8, and give it a highway gear. Call it the X8, or whatever, but get away from the thirsty, buzzy rotary.

[safristi]

  that's like asking Angelina Jolie...if she's give UP her Lips ,Boobs & BOOTY and become Jennifer ANISTON..............

[TopGun]

A well balanced review in the eyes of this 2007 RX-8 owner with 2400 kms on his car.

I've found my RX-8 remarkably easy to deal with as a daily driver.  My untrained auto reviewer ears think the sound on the highway is very quiet.

I find the RX-8 a car you can wring out with all of the associated sounds of an exotic...or cruise if you want to with minimal fuss.

On Chris' decision to take a 135i over this RX-8:

• My new '07 RX-8 was $16,000 less than this R3. ($33,000 after tax)
• Just try and find a 135i for $43,000.  Similarly equipped, I'm already at $46,000...and that's without any of the packages.

[Railton]

A well balanced review in the eyes of this 2007 RX-8 owner with 2400 kms on his car.

I've found my RX-8 remarkably easy to deal with as a daily driver.  My untrained auto reviewer ears think the sound on the highway is very quiet.

I find the RX-8 a car you can wring out with all of the associated sounds of an exotic...or cruise if you want to with minimal fuss.

On Chris' decision to take a 135i over this RX-8:

• My new '07 RX-8 was $16,000 less than this R3. ($33,000 after tax)
• Just try and find a 135i for $43,000.  Similarly equipped, I'm already at $46,000...and that's without any of the packages.

Chris is made of money it appears...
Railton

[safristi]

CHRIS.T almighty..........he knew the BAILOUT woz cumin'...................bloody can ya spare a $100,000..................

[Dave L]

As a has-been Mazda owner (RX7 Conv; 5 Miatas; Millenia S)--this car turns my head every time I see one.

What keeps me from buying one?

DaveL

[Winklovic]

As a has-been Mazda owner (RX7 Conv; 5 Miatas; Millenia S)--this car turns my head every time I see one.

What keeps me from buying one?

DaveL

Your wife?

[DockMan]

Your wife?