Mazda RX-8

The 2011 Mazda RX-8 ranks 4 out of 5 Affordable Sports Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 94 published reviews and test drives of the Mazda RX-8, and our analysis of reliability and safety data. Please check back soon for our full review.

The 2011 Mazda RX-8 has impressive handling dynamics and a roomy backseat, but loses points for its lack of low-end torque and fuel-thirsty, high-maintenance rotary engine.

In a class overrun by tiny roadsters and not-so-sporty sports cars, the Mazda RX-8 is a breath of fresh air. Distinguishing itself with a one-of-a-kind suicide door design, roomy backseat and impressive handling, the 2011 RX-8 has a lot going for it -- but only if you’re ok with doing a bit of routine maintenance work.

Test drivers report that the RX-8's performance faults spoil the fun. Not only does it run short on low-end torque, but its EPA-estimated fuel rating of 16/23 mpg is subpar among Affordable Sports Cars. Though the RX-8 is powered by a rotary engine that weighs less than a traditional internal-combustion engine and generates a high rate of horsepower with little displacement, it requires constant maintenance. Because the RX-8’s engine burns a lot of oil, Mazda recommends that drivers check its level every other time they visit the pump -- which will be frequent considering its poor fuel economy.

Still, sports car lovers on a budget will find the hassle of owning and driving the 2011 Mazda RX-8 well worth it. Its superb handling dynamics will get drivers behind the wheel. And its unique style and aggressive stance are icing on the cake.

Other Sports Cars to Consider

If you're in the market for a four-passenger Affordable Sports Car that’s easier to maintain, check out the similarly-priced Hyundai Genesis Coupe. It has enough leg room in the backseat to satisfy most average-size adults -- though its raked roofline will leave taller passengers wanting more rear seat headroom. Otherwise, consider shopping Muscle Cars, where powerful back-road burners like the Ford Mustang and Chevrolet Camaro are doing some serious damage.

Details: Mazda RX-8

Shoppers should note that the 2011 Mazda RX-8 is a carryover from last year, so opting for the 2010 Mazda RX-8 may save you some money. The RX-8 is offered in four trims: Sport, Touring, Grand Touring and R3. All feature a 212- to 232-horsepower, 1.3-liter RENESIS two-rotor rotary engine.

• "Providing sports-car performance along with four-passenger capacity, the…Mazda RX-8 would be the ultimate in a practical sports car were it not for its SUV-like fuel economy and lack of torque." -- Edmunds
• "If you're looking for an inexpensive sports car, but need room for child seats or extra passengers, the RX-8 is worth a look. Additionally, the R3 model has turned the RX-8 into a true driver's car with a chassis that is up there with the greats like the Mitsubishi EVO. Still, we can't help thinking that the RX-8 needs something and that something is power." -- Automobile Magazine

RX-8 Performance - 8.3 (Very Good)

Test drivers say that the RX-8 handles marvelously, but its lack of torque and subpar fuel economy detract from its overall appeal. Plus, its rotary engine requires constant maintenance -- making it unsuitable for anyone but enthusiasts. "The RX-8 is quirky, thirsty, torqueless, and not exactly mass-market friendly,” writes Automobile Magazine. "It requires effort and attention to go quickly, and while it's a forgiving, docile platform, it has no time for the lazy." Read More

RX-8 Exterior - 7.6 (Good)

The 2011 RX-8 looks sleek and aggressive. Although some critics haven’t warmed up to its four-door design, most agree that it’s definitely a head turner. "For design, we understand that some might not like the looks, but we do," writes CNET. "It's a very distinct car, in a good way." The RX-8 features four doors in a “suicide door” layout. Read More

RX-8 Interior - 7.9 (Good)

A quirky control layout and   inadequate cargo room mar the 2011 Mazda RX-8’s interior. However, its roomy backseat is a major plus in this segment. In fact, Automobile Magazine says, "The RX-8's rear seats remain a defining feature." Read More

RX-8 Safety - NA

The 2011 Mazda RX-8 has yet to be crash tested. However, the highly-similar 2010 model performs well in tests conducted by the federal government. Included among the RX-8’s long list of standard safety features is an anti-lock brake system and electronic brakeforce distribution. Read More

RX-8 Reliability - 6.0 (Mediocre)

The 2011 Mazda RX-8 reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). Mazda protects the 2011 RX-8 with a three-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warrantyand five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty.