Mazda RX-8

Mazda RX-8
Photo: Wikimedia Commons

The Mazda RX-8 is a four-seat sedan produced from 2004, featuring a distinctive 1,306 cm³ two-cylinder petrol engine generating 159 kW of power. With a kerb weight of 1,388 kg and a length of 4,431 mm, the vehicle achieves a top speed of 228 km/h. The model has been subject to three recalls registered in EU Safety Gate.

Technical data
ManufacturerMazda
ProductionFrom 2004
Body typeSedan
FuelPetrol
Kerb weight1,307 kg
Displacement1,797 cc
Cylinders2
Top speed228 km/h
DrivetrainRear-wheel drive
Fuel economy (comb.)12.8 l/100 km
Dimensions and layout
Length4,450 mm
Width1,770 mm
Height1,340 mm
Seats4
Doors3

Engine variants

Different engine versions of the Mazda RX-8 (from registration data). 3 variants.

Engine variants for Mazda RX-8
EngineFuelTransmissionTop speedEconomyModel year
1.3 l · 2-cylPetrolManual13.1 l/100 km2004–2011
1.3 l · 2-cylPetrolAutomatic13.1 l/100 km2004–2005
1.3 l · 2-cylPetrolAutomatic12.4 l/100 km2006–2011

Source: EPA (US). Fuel economy converted to l/100 km.

Generations

Other Mazda models

Similar Sedan models

Common problems & reliability

In the UK, 73% of Mazda RX-8s pass their MOT test first time, based on 3,386 inspections in 2023. (2023 is the most recent annual release published by the DfT.)

Based on real owner complaints and inspection data — not an editorial rating. Sources: DVSA MOT (UK, Open Government Licence).

Recalls & safety

4 recalls recorded in the EU Safety Gate (European market) for the Mazda RX-8. Recalls can flag known weaknesses of the model.

  • Passenger carEU · Safety Gate (France)

    The product does not comply with the Regulation on the approval and market surveillance of motor vehicles and their trailers, and of systems, components and separate technical units intended for such vehicles.

    EU Safety Gate · alerted 2022-04-01

  • Passenger carEU · Safety Gate (Germany)

    The housing of the driver airbag gas generator can burst when the airbag is activated, owing to excessive internal pressure. This could cause the occupants of the vehicle to be injured by metal fragments.

    EU Safety Gate · alerted 2016-09-30

  • Passenger carEU · Safety Gate (Germany)

    The product does not comply with the requirements laid down in the Regulation on the approval and market surveillance of Motor Vehicles and their trailers, and of systems, components and separate technical units intended for such vehicles.

    EU Safety Gate · alerted 2021-11-12

  • Passenger carEU · Safety Gate (Germany)

    As a consequence, the socket could break and detach from the transverse link which impairs steering.

    EU Safety Gate · alerted 2018-06-29

Sources: EU Safety Gate (European market) and NHTSA (US market). See all Mazda recalls.

Frequently asked questions

What is the top speed of the Mazda RX-8?
The Mazda RX-8 has a rated top speed of 228 km/h.
What are the dimensions of the Mazda RX-8?
The Mazda RX-8 is 4,450 mm long, 1,770 mm wide and 1,340 mm tall.
How much does the Mazda RX-8 weigh?
The Mazda RX-8 has a kerb weight of about 1,307 kg.
How many seats does the Mazda RX-8 have?
The Mazda RX-8 has 4 seats.