2008 Mazda RX-8

When it comes to road manners, the Mazda RX-8's sports-car presentation is a bit deceiving, and that may actually be a good thing. The RX certainly has a few unique sports-car features, like rear seats, a set of small rear doors similar to that of an extended-cab pickup, and, of course, its trademark rotary engine. Perhaps even more important, while most driving enthusiasts expect to sacrifice a supple ride in favor of handling, the RX-8 does not create such a quandary.

The RX-8 may not meet the criteria of a true sports car, but many owners and reviewers have found that it offers the ideal blend of smooth power delivery, tight handling, and a more subtle road feel. Seating for four adults is definitely an added convenience, but the RX-8's overall appeal is hindered by its low fuel economy and somewhat antiquated design, reminiscent of earlier RX generations.

The RX-8 can be had in one of three trim levels: Sport, Touring, or Grand Touring. All models come standard with 16-inch alloy wheels, air-conditioning, cruise control, a CD player, and full power accessories. During this model year, Mazda will also introduce a 40th-anniversary edition RX to commemorate Mazda's rotary engine, introduced in the 1960s. This special edition will be differentiated from other trims by Metropolitan Gray paint, a Cosmo Red leather interior, 18-inch alloy wheels, a firmer suspension, foglamps, a silver engine cover, and special badging.

The RX-8's 1.3-liter rotary engine can be paired with a either a six-speed paddle-shifting automatic or a six-speed manual transmission. The manual raises horsepower from 212 to 232, because the engine redlines at 9,000 rpm, instead of 7,500. The RX-8 with manual transmission will speed from 0 to 60 mph in seven seconds and turn the quarter-mile in 15.4 seconds. Fuel economy is estmated at 16/22 mpg city/highway.