2009 Mazda RX-8 4dr Cpe Man Sport

Introduction

For 2009 RX-8 receives evolutionary styling updates, a more rigid structure and driveshaft, revised rear suspension and gearing, and a new RX-8 R3 aimed at enthusiasts.

In short, the RX-8 is a true four-seat sports car.

Still, the manual and automatic models are two different cars.

The latest model in this series, the ingeniously engineered Mazda RX-8, drives like a sports car, with a high-revving engine and near perfect weight distribution for balanced handling, and it has garnered motoring award recognition on four continents.

The Mazda RX-8 is surprisingly practical.

The RX-8 was launched as an all-new model for 2004. Although the R3 powertrain is the same as that of the other RX8s, its sports suspension and cosmetic and functional upgrades qualify it as the best sports value in the line for serious enthusiasts. And it's the small but powerful rotary engine that makes this possible. And we're glad it did. By the early 1970s, the rotary seemed poised to conquer the automotive world. In addition to two more gears, the six-speed automatic also brought steering-wheel mounted paddle controls for semi-manual shifting; and allowed the engine to be tuned closer to its manual-transmission specification, narrowing the performance gap between the auto-shifting and shift-it-yourself versions. It's been 40 years since Mazda released its first rotary-engine production model, a twin-rotor coupe called Cosmo Sport in mid-1967. It's capable of taking the kids to soccer practice, with passenger space for four full-size adults. It's not as roomy as a sedan, but it can move people and stuff when needed, while offer the driving experience of a two-seat sports car. Its most significant prior update was the six-speed automatic transmission that arrived for 2006, replacing the previously available four-speed. Over the past four decades, Mazda has manufactured more than 1.9 million rotary-engine vehicles. That never happened for a long list of reasons, but the lightweight rotary engine found a purpose powering a delightful series of light, nimble, high-revving Mazda sports-touring cars. The bottom line is that the manual model is for driving enthusiasts willing to shift for themselves and those seeking maximum efficiency, while the automatic is for drivers more interested in the look and feel of a sports car than in ultimate performance or heavy stop-and-go commuters. The manual benefits from 232 horsepower at 8500 rpm, while the automatic gets 212 hp at 7500 rpm, albeit with the same 159 pound-feet of torque at 5500 rpm. There's enough room for a weekend's worth of luggage or two full-size golf bags, and the small rear doors and relatively spacious trunk make trips to the home improvement center possible.

Walkaround

(The RX-8 achieved four stars out of five in NHTSA side impact tests.)

Standard 18-inch alloy wheels offer a variety of designs, which like the gray-painted 19-inch forged aluminum units on the R3, use rotary engine shapes as design themes.

From the side you see big, sharp wheel arches; plus a small vent/signal repeater angled behind the front wheel.

R3 models use a more aggressive front bumper and a small stand-off wing rather than the attached small lip spoiler of other RX-8s.

The front and rear doors open in opposite directions, which Mazda calls the Free-style door system.

To compensate for the lack of a B-pillar, Mazda carefully designed the structure with supporting steel crossmembers and braces, as well as reinforcements around the door perimeter for rigidity and safety against a side impact. As with similar systems in pickups, the front door must be opened before the rear door can open. From the rear it looks good, with upswept lines, notable fender flares, large exhaust outlets and LED taillights. It's about the most aggressive shape technically possible in stamped steel. Structural rigidity was further stiffened for 2009, and the RX-8 compares well with conventional two-door coupes. The headlights aren't overtly dramatic but are a bit sleeker on 2009s; Mazda says it believes design should be expressed in sheet metal, not lighting. The inflated-triangle shape on the aft half of the hood perfectly mirrors the shape of the rotary engine beneath it. The Mazda RX-8 bulges with style if not grace. This design also makes the RX-8 surprisingly versatile in its ability to carry cargo. Unlike similar systems in pickups, the RX-8 structure does not creak and groan over uneven surfaces or steep driveway entrances. With no pillar between the doors, this allows very easy ingress and egress for the rear-seat passengers.

Driving Impression

And when DSC does take over, it uses the brakes, slowing one or more wheels as needed to correct the imbalance.

Despite the modest power, short gears and light weight allow the RX-8 to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in or less than 6 seconds, making it fully competitive with many four-seat coupes in the price range.

Downshifting is redefined by the rotary engine, especially when paired with the brilliant close-ratio six-speed gearbox.

Extremely smooth and simple, the rotary has benefited from 40 years of development by Mazda engineers.

Greatly benefiting the RX-8's handling is its near-perfect balance, close to 50 percent of its weight on the front wheels and 50 percent on the rear with people on board.

Out on the open road the RX-8 feels even better.

The brakes work well.

The optional Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) works effectively, yet allows the driver to work the tires without intruding.

The rotary engine offers a sweet unique sound under acceleration and the Renesis is very refined, with little of the rasp that characterized early RX-7s.

When we switched the DSC off, we discovered two things that together seem paradoxical: how good the DSC is (because we could barely feel it when it was on), and how superb the balance of the RX-8 is when driven in its natural state. Although the R3 is the best-handling RX-8 by virtue of its Bilstein shock absorbers and 40-series tires it maintains a forgiving ride, merely stepping over bumps that super-stiff cars tend to crash over. Full electronic assists are standard. Granted, the RX-8 is not the serious sports car that the third-generation RX-7 was, but nor is it as expensive. In other words, it will let you get away with two feet of understeer in a curve, but not six feet. It helps keep the center of gravity low and curb weight down to just 3,064 pounds. It hugs the pavement progressively, meaning the deeper it gets into a turn the harder it grips, which is wonderfully confidence-inspiring. It's just 200 pounds heavier than Honda's S2000 lightweight two-seater. On winding, undulating mountain roads where stability systems often make themselves known the RX-8 merely remains on standby in the background. Steering wheel inputs are answered quickly but without any nervousness and it's easily fine-tuned working through a bumpy or diminishing-radius corner. That's 500 pounds lighter than the lightest version of the two-seat Nissan 350Z, 200 pounds less than the four-seat rear-drive BMW 128i. The axle ratio in manual transmission cars has been shortened to 4.78:1 for better acceleration, while the automatic is geared for cruising. The compact size of the rotary engine, about the size of a small computer monitor, makes it possible in a four-seater. The electronic stability control systems in some other cars correct skidding by closing the throttle, which skilled drivers find intrusive. The fact that the RX-8 is so light, thanks not only to the rotary engine but also to the thoughtful use of aluminum in the hood and rear doors, reduces the stopping distance impressively, with performance comparable to that of the 350Z. The Mazda RX-8 handles like a true sports car, with great balance and precise turn-in. The rotary revs extremely quickly, but lacks the mid-range grunt of a V6. The RX-8 features the latest and by far the best rotary engine design, which Mazda calls Renesis. The RX-8 R3 may not set any benchmarks in test parameters but it is a very rewarding drive that won't get a novice into trouble or bore a pro, low weight and moderate torque help tires last longer, and it doesn't cost a king's ransom to replace them. The RX-8 wasn't completely forgiving when driven hard on an autocross circuit. The RX-8's DSC will eventually cut the throttle too, but not so early that it frustrates you. The two three-sided rotors deliver six power pulses per turn of the output shaft, the same number as a V12 (and twice as many per revolution as a V6), resulting in an exhaust note that's almost hypnotic on a rhythmic road, and sport-bike-like under full steam. This rotary engine is about 30 percent smaller than a comparable inline four-cylinder, and its compact dimensions allow it to be mounted in a low and rearward position for good weight distribution. We found with too much throttle the Mazda would understeer (the front tires plowing, and the car going straight instead of turning). What we learned is that the DSC is programmed to tolerate small errors but saves you from the big ones. When we pushed it still harder, driving like hacks, the DSC would kick in to limit the understeer. While some conventional, reciprocating-piston sports cars have also achieved this balance, it has usually been at the expense of interior space. Yet the suspension is soft enough for daily comfortable use and not as stiff as that of other sports cars that corner only slightly better but pay the price with a rigid ride. You can drop the RX-8 into second gear at a speed that would cause many other cars on the planet to scream, and you can do so confident that you will never miss a shift.

Interior

For some 2009 models the key need not be placed in a switch, merely in the car, and you rotate a switch as you would a regular key.

Recaro builds the superb sport seats in the R3, upholstered with leather around the edges and cloth centers for breathability.

The doors and seatbacks have ample pockets and cranny space, and four CDs can fit in the console, but there aren't a lot of cubbies up front.

The driver is treated to a stitched leather three-spoke steering wheel that we liked both for its style and feel.

The instrument panel sacrifices a bit of efficiency for style.

The navigation system is DVD-based and features a dedicated, retractable seven-inch screen on top of the dash above the radio and climate controls.

The panel forward of the shift lever is trimmed in glossy piano-black plastic like the steering wheel spokes.

The rear bucket seats in the RX-8 are comfortable.

The rear-hinged back door and the pillar-less door configuration allows loading of large, awkward items into the back seat area that simply cannot be handled by other sports cars and sedans.

The trunk is a true trunk, and we found it can carry two sets of golf clubs or a 24-inch roller suitcase and smaller bags. A vertical compartment door (pass-through) opens from the trunk to the rear seat area to allow the carrying of skis and such. Also nice were the aluminum pedals and the solid dead pedal. At times, especially in close quarters, the counter-swinging doors can be cumbersome, just as they did on extended-cab pickups and the Honda Element. Climate controls of more conventional design are below; the air conditioning frequently needs a higher fan speed than usual, especially in traffic where the high-revving engine isn't. Due to the high front seatbacks, rear-seat passengers can't see much out front without leaning inboard, but they can see out the side windows. Each knee is comfortably and firmly supported during hard cornering. Getting into and out of the rear seat is easy. Our preference is for a traditional key. R3 models wrap all major controls in leather. Rear passengers also have their own padded-armrest center console, dual cupholders, and plenty of room for child seats. Soft-touch surfaces are used on armrests and consoles, with hard plastics along lower surfaces that look satisfactory and help keep the weight down. The brake pedal is designed to make rotation of your right foot easier, for heel-and-toe downshifting. The controls for the Bose Centerpoint audio system are grouped in a CD-sized circle and have redundant controls on the steering wheel spokes. The instruments are illuminated from behind and above, so needles leave shadows in some conditions; if you adjust intensity downward at night they do not automatically return to full bright in daylight. The interface is clear, thanks in part to the fact that it does not incorporate radio and climate controls into the screen, as do many other navigation systems. The Mazda RX-8 cabin is comfortable and surprisingly roomy. The passenger's seat backrest tilts forward, hence the different backrest adjusters left and right. The seats are very good, a nice fit with good bolstering. The soft triangular shape of the engine rotors are a design theme found throughout the car, most noticeably in the standard seats and atop the shift lever. The standard cloth seat material wasn't as attractive to our eyes as it might have been, however. The two large outside rings include gauges for water temp, fuel level and assorted warning lights. There are reasons rear-hinged doors have had limited appeal over the years, but apart from seating a fourth person or vacuuming the back, you never have to open them. There are three big rings, dominated by the 10,000-rpm tachometer in the center, with a digital speedometer readout on the tach face. These features make the RX-8 more practical than the Nissan Z and other sports cars. They feature stout bolsters so good that assist handles become redundant, cutouts for shoulder harnesses, and excellent long-term spine support so you can concentrate on driving. This gives the convenience of keeping the key in your bag or pocket without the confusion of which button to press and how many times. Those with large hands may find the brake lever a bit close to the shifter and brush their knuckles in-and-out of fifth gear. Unlike some coupes with fixed rear side windows, the RX-8 rear windows pop-out for some ventilation. We found the system easy to operate. We miss having a separate analog speedometer; analog gauges can be interpreted at a glance, however, digital readouts are more precise for watching the limit than compact analog displays. We were able to fit a desk stool and a storage crate inside, without using the front seat, a very impressive feat for a sports car. We've found even large adults find plenty of elbow room thanks to the transmission tunnel/console that separates them, and surprisingly good toe room under the front seats.

Summary

NewCarTestDrive.com correspondent Sam Moses filed this report from Irvine, California, with Mitch McCullough and G.R. It's complemented by a beautiful six-speed gearbox, great brakes, and steering that talks to your hands. Its four-seat, four-door configuration is an original design that works. The Mazda RX-8 is a unique sports car. The rotary engine is super smooth, simple, high-revving and almost indestructible. The RX-8 is a great sports car with an innovative approach and admirable engineering. Whale reporting from Los Angeles.
Media Snapshots

Comparison

" 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."

Liked Most

"Much like its smaller sibling, the Miata, the RX-8 almost reads your thoughts and carries out your desires before you even move the controls."
By CAR AND DRIVER

"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."
By EDMUNDS.COM

Liked Least

"I wasn't too impressed by the RX-8's styling, inside or out. Exterior styling has a lot of odd bulges here and there, including a couple on the roof."
By MSN AUTOS

Car Connection Review

2009 MAZDA RX-8 STYLING | [8 out of 10]


Car and Driver: "Not everybody thinks it's pretty"

ConsumerGuide: "Freshened interior and exterior styling and a new R3 sport package"

Cars.com: "Cabin that has small, rear-hinged back doors to make it easier to get into the backseat"

After going nearly five years since its introduction without any hint of a restyle, the Mazda RX-8 arrives in dealer showrooms for 2009 with a slightly revised look.

The 2009 RX-8 Mazda is, in the words of Edmunds reviewers, "a four-seat coupe with a pair of rear-hinged 'suicide' doors" that comes in "four trim levels: Sport, Touring, Grand Touring and R3." Those who love the striking exterior design of previous Mazda RX-8s will be pleased to hear that "the RX-8 carries on with only minor changes to the exterior," according to Automobile Magazine. Otherwise, it's still what ConsumerGuide calls a "sporty coupe," and Cars.com loves the "longish hood" and "pronounced fender flares" that give it one of the most unique appearances on the road. Unique isn't always a good thing, though, and Car and Driver reports that "not everybody thinks it's pretty," but overall reviews read by TheCarConnection.com aren't overly critical of the styling. Edmunds sums it up perfectly by describing the 2009 RX-8 Mazda as "weird in good ways and bad," with the styling leaning more toward the former than the latter.

The interior of the 2009 Mazda RX-8 has been restyled as well, though some reviewers still have a few complaints about the layout. Automobile Magazine devotes quite a bit of space to criticizing the stereo controls and is disappointed to find that in the 2009 Mazda RX-8, "the channel selector is on the left, and the volume control is a large, centrally located knob," which results in reviewers "changing the station when [they] really only wanted to change the volume." Aside from that criticism, other reviews read by TheCarConnection.com appreciate the new styling touches. Road & Track points out that "the instrument panel was redesigned to 'give a feeling of dynamic movement,'" while some gauge changes for the 2009 Mazda RX-8 include a "variable red-zone, which should keep drivers from using too many revs when the engine is cold." ConsumerGuide lists a few pros and cons with the styling; while they love that "the navigation system doesn't incorporate any other functions, which is a plus," they don't like that "when the console cupholders are in use, shifting the manual transmission is awkward." Other styling touches on the interior of the Mazda RX-8 include "numerous circle and triangle details throughout the cabin," which Edmunds says are "a visual homage to the car's rotary engine design."



Conclusion: A mild makeover for the 2009 Mazda RX-8 keeps all the important styling pieces intact and makes room for a navigation system.



2009 MAZDA RX-8 PERFORMANCE | [8 out of 10]



Car and Driver: "Not much punch for diving into holes in traffic"

Edmunds: "Nimble handling with a comfortable ride"

Automobile Magazine: "Unique engine burns through far too much fuel"

When it comes to sportscars, looks can usually tell a lot. Some cars just appear fast, others come across like purebred handling machines, and some, like the 2009 Mazda RX-8 seem like a perfect combination of both. With its low-slung appearance and aggressive stance and styling, the Mazda RX-8 looks ready to pin drivers back in their seats and still circle skid pads with tenacious grip. Looks can be deceiving, though, and TheCarConnection.com has discovered that the 2009 RX-8 Mazda only lives up to half of its visual impression.

The 2009 Mazda RX-8 is unique in several ways, but none more striking than its engine. Edmunds says the Mazda RX-8 "is powered by a 1.3-liter rotary engine," and "the number of other cars that feature this type of engine is exactly zero." The single engine actually produces two different power numbers, as noted by Automobile Magazine, which reports that "with the six-speed manual transmission, the engine develops 232 hp and 159 lb-ft of torque," though "only 212 hp" when equipped with the six-speed automatic. Either way, the complaints about the engine are the same--it's underpowered. ConsumerGuide claims "low- and mid-range power is lacking, making it difficult at times to negotiate heavy traffic," and Car and Driver agrees, adding that there's "not much punch for diving into holes in traffic." Automobile Magazine explains that "the small engine needs to be revved to the mean for any real forward thrust," and when fully loaded, the Mazda RX-8 "is downright slow." In terms of hard acceleration data, Edmunds reports that "a manual-equipped RX-8 went from zero to 60 mph in 7 seconds."

While the engine may not be a favorite among reviewers, the transmission options both score well. As noted earlier, the 2009 RX-8 Mazda offers both a six-speed manual and automatic transmission, both of which are linked to a "rear-wheel-drive" system, according to Edmunds. Automobile Magazine praises the manual transmission for being "fun to work as you try to stay in the engine's power band," and ConsumerGuide similarly calls the manual "smooth and precise." Cars.com reports that drivers who choose the automatic transmission still have the option to control the gears, thanks to "shift paddles on the steering wheel for driver-initiated gear changes."

A small, low-output engine combined with a lightweight vehicle is usually a formula for respectable fuel economy, but the Mazda RX-8's rotary engine conspires against this tried-and-true recipe. According to the official EPA estimates, the 2009 Mazda RX-8 gets just 16 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway with the manual transmission, while the automatic is just 1 mpg better on the highway. Edmunds calls these numbers "unimpressive," and in real-world testing, ConsumerGuide reviewers only "averaged 16.2 mpg."

For all its drawbacks in the acceleration and fuel economy department, few cars can match the 2009 Mazda RX-8's virtues when it comes to handling. Car and Driver is largely critical of the Mazda RX-8, but even they concede it "is perfect if the mountain road starts at the end of your driveway." ConsumerGuide finds that the 2009 RX-8 Mazda's "firm, direct steering, along with great grip and balance make RX-8 a delight." They add that the Mazda RX-8 "exhibits minimal body lean while cornering." Aside from top-notch handling, many reviewers are impressed by the ride quality in the Mazda RX-8. Edmunds loves the balance between "plenty of grip in the corners and solid feedback through the steering wheel." The brakes are commendable as well, with ConsumerGuide proclaiming that "the brakes deliver good overall stopping control."



Conclusion: You'll get the most out of the 2009 Mazda RX-8 on a twisting road, but make sure there are plenty of gas stations along the route.



2009 MAZDA RX-8 COMFORT AND QUALITY | [7 out of 10]

Edmunds: "Innovative body style that can actually seat four adults"

ConsumerGuide: "Appearance and quality of the interior materials is a cut above those of the Ford Mustang"

Automobile Magazine: "RX-8 models gain redesigned seats"

If you want a sportscar with incredible handling that you can show off to three friends at once, the 2009 Mazda RX-8 might be what you need. While it may not appear to seat more than two from the outside, the inclusion of a pair of rear-opening doors and a decent-sized backseat means this 2009 RX-8 Mazda is more practical than you'd think.

Cars.com states that the 2009 Mazda RX-8's "cabin has room for up to four people" thanks to the "bucket seats in front and back." Many reviews read by TheCarConnection.com point out that the seats have been restyled for the 2009 RX-8 Mazda, but even still, ConsumerGuide reports that most "testers found it difficult to find a comfortable driving position." They add that "the sunroof housing cramps headroom for even average-size adults," while "legroom is just adequate." Automobile Magazine finds "the seats are supportive but the side bolsters are so large and firm and protrude so far off the seat that shifting [is] difficult." Contrary to the cramped space in back that TheCarConnection.com found, Car and Driver remarks that the Mazda RX-8 features "useable back seats," and Edmunds claims the 2009 Mazda RX-8 gets "a serious advantage over its class rivals," thanks to "its true four-passenger capacity." Edmunds goes on to note that "those seated in the back will find supportive seating and ample room all around."

While the backseats may be great for passengers, there is little back there in the way of storage space. ConsumerGuide criticizes the Mazda RX-8 for the fact that "interior storage is very poor," finding "the door pockets are virtually useless, and the center console is shallow and located in an inconvenient spot aft of the front seats." The trunk isn't much help either, as Edmunds notes that "its opening is small and no flip-down rear seat function exists to increase that luggage capacity."

Overall build and materials quality on the 2009 Mazda RX-8 is neither good nor bad, as evidenced by the general lack of commentary in reviews read by TheCarConnection.com. ConsumerGuide does devote a little space to the quality issue, reporting that the Mazda RX-8's "interior is composed of mostly hard plastic," though "appearance and quality of the interior materials is a cut above those of the Ford Mustang and Nissan 350Z." Automobile Magazine reviewers also mention that "the fit and finish on [their] test car was quite nice."

One area where the build quality is evident is cockpit noise, which is also average in the 2009 Mazda RX-8. ConsumerGuide reports that "wind rush is minimal, but the tires roar over most pavement surfaces." Edmunds reviewers add that "noise levels are subdued" inside the cabin, both in terms of engine noise and exterior intrusions.

And although the RX-8 has a firmly tuned suspension, as most sporty cars do, it isn't too jarring; Edmunds notes that "a compliant ride means that it won't beat you up on the daily commute."

Conclusion: The 2009 Mazda RX-8 surprises many with its seating capacity, but in many ways, it still suffers from the traditional cramped confines of a small sportscar.



2009 MAZDA RX-8 SAFETY | [8 out of 10]



NHTSA: Four stars, front driver impact and side impact; five stars, front passenger impact

Edmunds: "All but the Sport model get stability control standard"

Cars.com: "Side-impact airbags for the front seats and side curtain airbags are standard"

With a small engine and relatively low power numbers to work with, saving weight is critical in the design of the 2009 Mazda RX-8. Fortunately, Mazda engineers are thoughtful enough to include some critical safety features on the 2009 RX-8 Mazda, so drivers won't be completely vulnerable during an accident.

The 2009 Mazda RX-8 scores well in government crash tests. NHTSA fully tested the 2009 RX-8 Mazda and awarded it four out of a possible five stars for front driver impacts and side impacts on both sides. The Mazda RX-8 also earned a perfect five-star rating from NHTSA in the front passenger side impact category. As of this writing, the Mazda RX-8 has not been crash-tested by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, most likely due to the fact that Mazda sells a relatively small number of RX-8s each year.

Most versions of the 2009 Mazda RX-8 come equipped with Mazda's full range of safety features. As Edmunds reviewers point out, "all but the Sport model" of the 2009 Mazda RX-8 "get stability control standard." Cars.com adds that "antilock brakes, side-impact airbags for the front seats and side curtain airbags" are standard as well on the Mazda RX-8. ConsumerGuide reports that the remaining standard safety features on the 2009 Mazda RX-8 include "dual front airbags" and a "tire-pressure monitor," which can also be used to help improve fuel economy (and the Mazda RX-8 needs all the help it can get).

The Mazda RX-8 is, for the most part, a relatively safe sportscar. However, reviews read by TheCarConnection.com reveal one critical shortcoming that safety-conscious buyers should consider: poor driver visibility. ConsumerGuide reviewers are particularly critical, finding that the "thick rear roof pillars severely compromise aft visibility." This issue is of even greater concern on a car as small as the Mazda RX-8.

Conclusion: The 2009 Mazda RX-8 lacks the electronic stability control that most sportscars have, and driver visibility needs some serious improvement.



2009 MAZDA RX-8 FEATURES | [8 out of 10]

Edmunds: "Impressive feature content"

Automobile Magazine: "R3 model...comes standard with Bluetooth, Bose audio"

ConsumerGuide: "Exclusive to the Grand Touring model is leather upholstery"

Cheap thrills--that's what the 2009 Mazda RX-8 promises, and it delivers for the driving enthusiast who craves corners. Daily drivers aren't entirely forgotten, though, as evidenced by the features list on the Mazda RX-8.

The 2009 Mazda RX-8 offers a range of standard creature comforts across its four-trim lineup. While some automakers tend to skimp on their low-end models, reviews read by TheCarConnection.com show that even the Mazda RX-8 Sport offers more standard equipment than some competitors. Edmunds reports that the 2009 RX-8 Mazda Sport comes standard with "air-conditioning, cruise control...full power accessories and a six-speaker stereo with CD player." ConsumerGuide also notes that a "digital-media player connection" is included on the Mazda RX-8 Sport, while upgrading to the Touring model brings an "in-dash six-disc CD changer." For those interested in the 2009 RX-8 Mazda in Grand Touring trim, Edmunds says the standard features grow to include "automatic headlights, heated side mirrors...an eight-way power driver seat with memory," and "heated front seats." New for 2009 is the Mazda RX-8 R3, which offers standard "Bluetooth, Bose audio, and a keyless entry and starting system," according to Automobile Magazine.

Mazda is well aware that many 2009 Mazda RX-8 buyers want more than just the standard features, so the company has included an optional package and a few stand-alone upgrades for the Mazda RX-8. However, in order to keep prices down, the overall selection of options is quite limited. ConsumerGuide states that a Premium Package is available for both Mazda RX-8 Touring and Grand Touring vehicles that includes a "power sunroof, Bose sound system (Touring), [and] satellite radio." In terms of stand-alone features, Edmunds says the most noteworthy are "a new touchscreen navigation system with voice commands and a dedicated iPod connection."

Conclusion: The included and available features on the 2009 Mazda RX-8 are nice, but it would be great to see a longer options list.