2009 Mazda RX-8 Reviews, Pricing & Specs
Overview
Now in its sixth year of production, the sporty RX-8 four-door coupe continues to give the Mazda lineup a dash of much-needed excitement,...
Now in its sixth year of production, the sporty RX-8 four-door coupe continues to give the Mazda lineup a dash of much-needed excitement, as did its predecessor, the iconic RX-7. For 2009, the RX-8 receives a design refresh as well as a performance update. A new R3 sport trim, designed for driving enthusiasts, also debuts for '09.
The updates start at the RX-8's front end, which sports a more muscular fender and front fascia, a new black grille, and integrated side turn indicators. At the restyled rear end, the RX-8 now comes with twin circular LED taillights and larger exhaust pipes. New five-spoke alloy wheels also give the RX-8 a freshened appearance.
The RX-8's underpinnings have been improved as well, with structural reinforcements that make the body more rigid. In addition, Mazda reconfigured the RX-8's rear suspension geometry, which results in a more rigid driveshaft and improves overall handling, according to the automaker.
Inside, the RX-8 receives a number of new features, including a standard auxiliary audio jack for MP3 players, as well as an optional Bluetooth hands-free phone system, 7-inch touchscreen, and voice-activated DVD navigation system.
The new R3 trim, which joins the existing Sport, Touring, and Grand Touring trims, features an upgraded sport suspension with Bilstein shock absorbers and foam-filled front suspension crossmembers, designed for improved ride comfort. The R3 also comes equipped with a sporty front bumper, unique side sills, a rear spoiler, and 19-inch forged aluminum alloy wheels.
Inside, standard features for the R3 include front Recaro sport seats with leather side bolsters, a leather-wrapped parking brake, an advanced keyless entry and start system, Bluetooth, and a 300-watt Bose audio system with Centerpoint surround sound and AudioPilot noise compensation technology.
A 232-hp, 1.3-liter Renesis two-rotor rotary engine drives all RX-8 trims, including the R3. The rotary engine operates without pistons or valves, and has been a stalwart powerplant of Mazdas for decades. The engine links to a six-speed manual transmission with a short-throw shifter. Drivers can also opt for a six-speed Sport automatic transmission, which includes steering-wheel-mounted paddles so drivers can shift manually. Trims with the automatic transmission are powered by a 212-hp rotary engine. The R3 comes only with the manual transmission and more powerful engine.
Standard features for all trims include air-conditioning, power windows, and power door locks. The Touring, Grand Touring, and R3 trims also come with self-leveling Xenon high-intensity headlights, foglights, a rear-view auto-dimming mirror with Homelink, and an in-dash 6-CD changer. The Grand Touring adds heated exterior mirrors, rain-sensing wipers, automatic climate control, and heated front seats with an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat.
As in previous years, all RX-8 trims come with the Freestyle door system, which includes two rear-hinged doors that open toward the front of the car. The front doors open normally, creating a wide opening for loading and unloading the back seat.
Safety features throughout the line include antilock brakes with electronic brakeforce distribution, side-impact protection, and an advanced airbag system. In addition, all trims except the entry-level Sport trim come with dynamic stability control with traction control.
What owners say
"Overall, drivers love the 2009 Mazda RX-8 for its impressive acceleration and handling. Many appreciate the unique rotary engine and the thrill of driving it, noting it feels like a well-crafted machine. However, some drivers are concerned about the vehicle's power, cost of maintenance, and poor fuel economy. While it's a fun car, ownership requires a commitment to unique care and expenses."
This car handles like it's on rails. It's predictable and accurate. The rotary engine has a power band from 4000-9000 rpms and is geared really low, so it accelerates briskly. The torque is a little lacking, but it's not a drag car, so it doesn't bother me. I rarely have to brake into a turn and will beat anything in the twisties....Honda, eat your heart out!
August 1, 2009Awesome acceleration, great handling, but you need to be a rotary enthusiasts to own this car and take care of this engine
December 26, 2020The car feels like your part of a well made machine that is stuck to the road with glue . The rotory motor has a sound like no other, however my only complaint is it's lack of power . Overall this is one of the best cars I've driven, and being a mechanic I drive lots of different cars.
May 10, 2009What owners say
This car handles like it's on rails. It's predictable and accurate. The rotary engine has a power band from 4000-9000 rpms and is geared really low, so it accelerates briskly. The torque is a little lacking, but it's not a drag car, so it doesn't bother me. I rarely have to brake into a turn and will beat anything in the twisties....Honda, eat your heart out!
August 1, 2009Awesome acceleration, great handling, but you need to be a rotary enthusiasts to own this car and take care of this engine
December 26, 2020The car feels like your part of a well made machine that is stuck to the road with glue . The rotory motor has a sound like no other, however my only complaint is it's lack of power . Overall this is one of the best cars I've driven, and being a mechanic I drive lots of different cars.
May 10, 2009I like this car! It is very cool... V6 turbo engine and Mazda GT professional breaks. The interior is black and red mixed. 19 inches wheels. The head lights are like eagle's eyes. I also like the shift stick, it is 6 speed manual transmation. This car is have more fun to drive!!
May 30, 2009We loved this cars looks from the time we saw it on the dealers lot. It was next to the commuter car we went to the dealership to look at (Mazda 3). It is NOT a fast, put you back in your seat car. The rotory engine is unique but it does not have the get up and go I was hoping for. Don't get me wrong----It is not a slow poke! The car is solid. Everything worksa as it should. We have leather interior and the seating will accomodate for regular adults. An improvemant over other four passenger sports cars. The mileage sucks but what do you expect when your foot is in it and the tank is small! The car is fun to drive and handles the corners great. Take off the traction control and the thing is very squirrelly!
July 27, 2009The car appears to be in good condition. However, I do feel it is overpriced.
September 22, 2021... awesome car; the best Ive ever owned ... the dual rotary engine provided instant acceleration , the handling was fantastic, and I shouldve never let it go ... ... small downsides; the tires were expensive, maintenance was expensive, and it used premium gas ... if you can pay the freight, its a truly great ride ...
November 24, 2022The Mazda RX-8 was still going through some tweaking, and in time the RX-8 would become the car worthy of the RX name. The rotary engine, is the engine of the future.
December 14, 2021Trims & specs
Base MSRP $26,435 | Seating 4 |
Engine 1.3L 212 hp R2 | Cargo Capacity 7.6 cu ft |
Combined MPG 19 | Drivetrain RWD |
Base MSRP $27,860 | Seating 4 |
Engine 1.3L 212 hp R2 | Cargo Capacity 7.6 cu ft |
Combined MPG 19 | Drivetrain RWD |
Base MSRP $31,000 | Seating 4 |
Engine 1.3L 232 hp R2 | Cargo Capacity 7.6 cu ft |
Combined MPG 19 | Drivetrain RWD |
Base MSRP $31,930 | Seating 4 |
Engine 1.3L 232 hp R2 | Cargo Capacity 7.6 cu ft |
Combined MPG 19 | Drivetrain RWD |
