EDMUNDS.COM 2004 MAZDA RX-8
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 Summary
What Edmunds.com Says
Regardless of how many doors the RX-8 has, it is ultimately a sports coupe. We applaud Mazda''s return to building affordable, non-conformist performance cars.
Pros
Low base price, agile handling yet still comfortable enough for daily use, room for four in a pinch.
Cons
Option packages can get expensive, iffy interior ergonomics.
What''s New for 2004
The RX-8 is an all-new car for 2004. Its arrival marks the return of Mazda''s rotary engine to the U.S. market. Priced less than Nissan''s 350Z, the RX-8 also offers four doors and a usable backseat.
Overview
Introduction:
Mazda has a knack for building unique and unconventional automobiles. The early RX-3s are still a favorite among SCCA production racers, the venerable RX-7 is still a sought after car, (especially the first-generation GSL-SE), and who can forget Mazda''s rotary-powered pickup? Later, Mazda almost single-handedly revived the two-seat roadster with the first Miata. The RX-8 is a continuation of that spirit, only now the company packaged its smooth but powerful rotary engine in a more usable car. With the RX-8, Mazda has created a kinder, more generous sports car that seats four and boasts an engine that''s both powerful and fuel-efficient -- Felix Wankel would be proud. Mazda has had 40 years of experience producing rotary engines and is the only manufacturer in the world that offers a pure rotational internal combustion engine. The RX-8''s engine -- dubbed the Renesis -- is a new type of rotary, similar to the one that was offered in Mazda''s RX-7 (last sold here in 1995), but with a few significant improvements. It makes almost as much power as the RX-7''s turbocharged engine, but is 30 percent lighter and more compact. A new valve arrangement allows this new-generation engine to produce its ample power while improving mileage and emissions control. The RX-8 is what Mazda calls a "four-passenger sports car." While the 2+2 sports car idea has been around for a while, Mazda has certainly come up with an intriguing if not unique idea for the RX-8''s cabin. Technically there are four doors, but the rearmost doors open "suicide" style for easy entry and exit. Mazda calls these doors "Freestyle" doors. The addition of two normal doors would require a B-pillar which would make the car longer and heavier and stray too far from the sports car ideal it was aiming for. Competition in the sports car category is sparse, but the few vehicles that do compete with the RX-8 are formidable foes. Nissan''s new 350Z would have to be considered the RX-8''s most direct competitor as it offers similar performance for a slightly higher price. With no backseat, the Z is more of a true sports car, but for those who need a little practicality to go along with their sport the RX-8 is hard to beat.
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For Pricing information, see Edmunds'' Pricing page. |
Body Styles, Trim Levels and Options:
The RX-8 is available in two variants; a 197-horsepower base model with an automatic and a 238-hp performance model with a six-speed manual. The automatic version comes standard with basic amenities like air conditioning, 16-inch wheels and power windows, locks and mirrors. The six-speed manual model adds a limited-slip differential, a sport-tuned suspension and 18-inch wheels and tires. There are three available option packages for buyers looking to upgrade their RX-8. On six-speed models, the Sport package adds xenon headlights, stability/traction control and foglights, while automatic-equipped versions also get a limited-slip differential, larger brakes, a retuned suspension and 18-inch wheels and tires as part of the deal. The Touring package builds on the Sport package by adding a sunroof, Bose audio, Homelink and auto-dimming mirrors. The top-of-the-line Grand Touring package adds all of the previously mentioned equipment along with a six-way power-adjustable and heated driver seat, leather upholstery and heated side mirrors. Additional available options include a navigation system, appearance package and an in-dash six-disc CD changer.
Powertrains and Performance:
Both versions of the RX-8 are motivated by a 1.3-liter rotary engine that sends power to the rear wheels. When connected to the four-speed automatic transmission, the engine is tuned to produce 197 hp, while manual transmission versions get a 238-hp power plant. Coupled with the vehicle''s light weight, the RX-8 delivers exhilarating performance along with ultrasmooth power delivery.
Safety:
All RX-8s come with standard front and side airbags for the driver and front passenger as well as side curtain airbags. Antilock brakes are also standard while additional structural bracing was incorporated to further bolster the car''s overall level of protection in an accident. Although no safety agencies in the U.S. have yet crash tested an RX-8, Mazda claims that its own internal testing showed that the RX will do well in all types of tests.
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For more Safety information, see Edmunds'' Safety page. |
Interior Design and Special Features:
Although it looks like a coupe, the RX-8 actually has four doors. The rear openings are hinged at the back and there is no center pillar between the two sets of doors. The wide opening that results makes for easy access to the rear seats that are surprisingly roomy considering the overall size of the car. The interior carries a circular design theme with three round gauges. A circular central dash pod and three round knobs for climate control functions.
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For more Interior Features information, see Edmunds'' Specifications page. |
Driving Impressions:
Although the RX-8 has the look of a race-tuned sports car, its demeanor on the road is considerably more docile. There''s plenty of grip in the corners and solid feedback through the steering wheel, but it won''t beat you up on daily commutes. The rotary engine requires high engine speeds to make its peak power, but the delivery is ultrasmooth and noise levels are kept well in check. Overall, the RX-8 is one of the best examples of a car that''s fun to drive while still remaining livable on a day-to-day basis.
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For more Driving Impressions, Recent Articles and Car Awards from Edmunds'' editors, see Edmunds'' Road Tests page. |
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