2007 Mazda RX-8 Grand Touring from the January, 2008 issue
| Reviewed By: | Stefan Lombard |
|---|---|
| Price: | $34,095 |
| Likes: | High-revving (9,000 rpm redline) twin rotary makes 232 hp from just 1.3 liters. Impressive, nimble 50/50 handling, even at the threshold. Short, even throws from 6-speed. Quiet ride and good Bose stereo. |
| Gripes: | Poor rearward visibility, trunk opening accommodates golf clubs but not a cooler, 16-18 mpg observed on the highway, navigation “joystick” is finicky, annoying “lump” in passenger footwell, polarizing looks—fenders reminiscent of new Dodge Durango, goofy rear doors. |
| Verdict: | I admire Mazda’s pluck with the rotary, as the sound and experience are quite unique, but this car should not have four doors. The previous RX-7 was downright sexy, but the RX-8 can’t decide what it is. Drives like a sports car, looks like a concept. |
| Fun to Drive: |  |
| Fun to Look at: |  |
| Overall Experience: |  |
