Mazda3 4 Door Sedan Model Strengths:
Fuel efficiency; sporty handling; flexible five-door body style; performance for the money (MAZDASPEED3).
Mazda3 4 Door Sedan Model Changes:
For 2008, the popular Mazda3 sees an important safety upgrade: standard on all s trim cars will be front seat side-impact air bags, as well as full-length side curtain air bags.Superficial changes include new colors like Golden Sand, Copper Red, Stormy Blue, and Metropolitan Gray, while True Red is unique to the MAZDASPEED3. All five-door models feature a revised rear bumper, and Grand Touring models now have standard power seats. Coming later in 2008 will be a new trim level-i Touring Value, which replaces the i Touring. It will feature 17-inch alloy wheels, fog lights, a color-keyed grille, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift lever, and an anti-lock brake/air bags safety package.
Mazda3 4 Door Sedan Model Value:
The 2008 Mazda3 is one of the most nimble, best-handling small cars on the market, and the five-door models especially stand out among competing models for their sporty silhouette and hatchback convenience. Both the i and s models have impressive fuel economy and the MAZDASPEED3 is one of the most powerful front-wheel-drive cars available, as well as one of the fastest cars in its affordable price range.
Mazda3 4 Door Sedan Model Overview:
The sporty and fuel-efficient 2008 Mazda3 is offered in three trim levels (Sport, Touring, and Grand Touring) and in two different body styles (a sedan and a sleek five-door hatchback).Models designated "i" get a 148-horsepower, 2.0L four-cylinder engine, while "s" models get a 156-horsepower, 2.3L four-cylinder. California-emissions states get slightly detuned, partial zero emission vehicle (PZEV) versions of the engines making 144 horsepower and 151 horsepower, respectively. A five-speed manual transmission is standard on all models, while an automatic transmission is optional on both-it's a four-speed on i models and a five-speed on s models.Sedans are available in either i or s trim, allowing a choice of either engine, but five-door hatchbacks come only in s trim. The 2.3L offers peppier performance with only slightly lower fuel economy; with the manual, the 2.0L gets 24 miles per gallon city, 32 highway while the 2.3L is rated at 22 city, 29 highway.At the top of the line is the high-performance MAZDASPEED3, which features a turbocharged 2.3L inline four-cylinder mated to a six-speed manual transmission. It delivers 263 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and a potent 280 lb-ft of torque at 3,000 rpm. The car rides on 18-inch alloy wheels and also features stability control, a limited-slip differential, a sport-tuned suspension with thick stabilizer bars, sport-tuned exhaust, and unique trim inside. Equal-length drive shafts and a smart electronic control of turbo boost help avoid the torque steer that sometimes accompanies high-power front-wheel drive cars.Handling is a strong point for all Mazda3s, with MacPherson struts in front and a multi-link rear suspension. Four-wheel anti-lock brakes with electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD) and brake assist are standard on s models and optional on i models. Seat-mounted side air bags and roof-mounted curtain air bags are now standard on all s trim cars, and optional on i models. Stability control is optional on s Touring and s Grand Touring models.Sport models in i trim come with manual windows, locks, and mirrors, and lack standard air conditioning, though many other desirable features come standard, such as tilt steering, a 60/40-split fold-down rear seat, rear heater ducts, and a four-speaker CD audio system. Sport models in s trim get power windows and locks, keyless entry, air conditioning, and cruise control.Touring models in i trim feature keyless remote, dual power mirrors, air conditioning, power windows and locks with central locking. In s trim, the Touring offers anti-lock brakes, stability control, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift lever, a six-speaker sound system, halogen fog lamps, and side sill extensions.Grand Touring models add automatic climate control, leather seats with front heating, a four-function trip computer, auto-leveling xenon headlights, clear-lens LED taillights, rain-sensing windshield wipers, and several other features not usually seen on cars in this price class.Popular options available across the Mazda3 line include an in-dash six-disc CD changer, remote starting, and Sirius satellite radio with a six-month subscription.
Mazda B-Series Truck Model Strengths:
Roomy, comfortable ride, but rugged enough to work hard; smart pricing; reliable underpinnings.
Mazda B-Series Truck Model Changes:
Mazda's popular B-Series pickup truck sees a few changes for 2008. Most significant is the discontinuation of all trim levels of the 3.0L V6 B3000. The B2300 features upgraded shock absorbers, while the B4000 has lost about half an inch from its ride height, and the B4000 SE gets a standard front suspension skid plate.
Mazda B-Series Truck Model Value:
Mazda's proven B-Series small pickup holds its own against trucks from Chevrolet, Toyota, Nissan, and Ford-on whose truck the B-Series is based. The B2300 and B4000 are reliable, rugged trucks that don't pretend to be anything else, all of which means that they haul cargo and tow loads whenever asked to do so. The 2.3L B2300 sips gas at 21 mpg city/26 mpg highway, while the 4.0L B4000 impresses with a 5,600 pound towing capacity.
Mazda B-Series Truck Model Overview:
Mazda has based its B-Series light-duty pickups on Ford's venerable Ranger for more than a decade, and the Japanese truck is widely recognized for its reliability and toughness.With the discontinuation of the B3000, the 2008 Mazda truck comes with just two engine options: The B2300, powered by a 2.3L I4, puts out 143 horsepower and 154 lb-ft of torque, while the B4000 is powered by a 207-horsepower 4.0L V6 with 238 lb-ft of torque. These powerplants cover three trim levels, including the standard, regular cab B2300, the extended cab (Cab Plus) B4000, and the Cab Plus B4000 SE. A five-speed manual comes standard on the B2300 and B4000, while a five-speed automatic comes standard on the SE and is optional on the other two trucks. The B2300 is available as 2WD only, while 4WD comes standard on both B4000 models.The B2300 is a no-frills pickup with standard features including anti-lock brakes, 15-inch steel wheels, halogen headlights, three-passenger 60/40 bench seat, and AM/FM stereo. Air conditioning and 15-inch alloys are stand-alone options, or they come in the available $1,995 SE-5 Package, which also adds a CD stereo, tilt steering, cruise control, carpet, floor mats, chrome bumpers, and a chrome grille.The B4000 and B4000 SE add two rear-hinged doors to access that extra cab space, active "shift-on-the-fly" 4WD, a heavy-duty suspension, black wheel well moldings, air conditioning, and passive anti-theft system. SE-only standard features include 16-inch alloys, underbody skid plates, fog lights, front tow hooks, a sliding rear window, power windows and locks, remote entry, cruise control, a limited-slip differential, and a trailer hitch. Bucket seats and monochromatic paint are optional on the SE.All 2008 Mazda B-Series trucks include standard anti-lock brakes and dual front air bags, as well as a tire pressure monitoring system.
Mazda Tribute SUV Model Strengths:
Ride and handling (compared to other small SUVs); comfortable interior; utility; fuel efficiency (four-cylinder).
Mazda Tribute SUV Model Changes:
For 2008, the Mazda Tribute, which is mechanically similar to the Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner, gets a revised exterior appearance, redesigned interior, and a number of other improvements.Side air bags, curtain air bags, and electronic stability control are standard on the Tribute for the first time.
Mazda Tribute SUV Model Value:
The 2008 Mazda Tribute mixes a boxy, more traditional SUV shape with a feel behind the wheel that's very carlike. With the four-cylinder engine, the Tribute is one of the most fuel-efficient small sport-utility vehicles, though the V6 is a better choice for those who plan to drive frequently with heavy loads or at high speed.Mazda also claims that the interior fabrics in the Tribute Grand Touring are the first of any non-luxury SUV to be vinyl-free, and the Sport and Touring models have a fabric made with 35-percent recycled yarns.
Mazda Tribute SUV Model Overview:
The Mazda Tribute has the boxy appearance of a trucklike SUV for 2008, yet it's oriented for on-road use and has a comfortable and very carlike interior. It's now available in three different trim levels-Sport, Touring, and Grand Touring. Front-wheel-drive is standard, but there's also an active torque coupling (ATC) four-wheel drive system (available only with automatic transmission) that can react quickly, sending more power to the wheels that have more traction, to altogether avoid wheel slip. The system works especially well in low-traction road conditions.Two different engines are offered on the Tribute. A 153-horsepower, 2.3L four-cylinder is light and efficient, and comes with a five-speed manual gearbox or optional four-speed automatic with logic to help avoid hunting between gears on hills. Then there's a 200-horsepower, 3.0L V6. Among the three trims, four-cylinder models are designated with an "i," while V6 models have an "s."The Tribute's interior has seating for five adults, and the newly redesigned center-console area is large enough to store a laptop. With the 60/40-split back seat folded forward, the 29.2 cubic feet of cargo space can be expanded to 66.3 for large cargo.Front side air bags and side-curtain air bags are standard, as are dynamic stability control, and roll stability control. The braking system employs discs in front and drums in back, though a four-channel anti-lock system with electronic brakeforce distribution is standard across the line.For 2008 a new electric power steering system is used, bringing a light feel at low speed yet more feedback at higher speed, along with improved efficiency. The fully independent coil-spring suspension with rack-and-pinion steering help provide good handling and roadholding, with enough durability and softness for unpaved roads. Standard features on the base Tribute, called the Sport, include 16-inch alloy wheels, fog lamps, air conditioning, remote keyless entry, power accessories, adjustable lumbar and height support for the driver's seat, and cruise control on vehicles with automatic. The Touring model adds a number of convenience features, including a roof rack, power driver's seat, and overhead console. At the top of the line, the Grand Touring model adds heated side mirrors, a power moonroof, leather seats (heated in front), a retractable cargo cover, and a seven-speaker sound system with six-disc changer.
Mazda5 4 Door Wagon Model Strengths:
Seating for six; competitive price; solid fuel efficiency; impressive handling and maneuverability; small footprint for easy parking.
Mazda5 4 Door Wagon Model Changes:
For 2008, the Mazda5 gets a slightly different appearance, some new features, and a new automatic transmission.A new front bumper fascia design and flowing grille give the model a sportier look, enhanced by new headlight and taillight designs.Inside, there have been extensive changes to the front half of the vehicle, including a new shift panel and center console, new electroluminescent gauges, second-row vents with individual fan-speed controls, and front passenger inboard armrests. Sound systems now have an auxiliary input jack. On Grand Touring models, features have been expanded to include an alarm system and Bluetooth hands-free interface.Mechanically, a five-speed automatic transmission replaces the former four-speed auto.A new Sand interior color is available, and five new exterior colors join the palette: Copper Red, Golden Sand, Stormy Blue, Sunlight Silver, and Crystal White Pearl.
Mazda5 4 Door Wagon Model Value:
Part minivan, part SUV, and part station wagon, the 2008 Mazda5 can serve a wide range of needs for city dwellers with a tight budget and an even tighter parking space-especially when there are children to be shuttled. Yet the model stands out for its fun-to-drive qualities, as it handles more like a sporty hatchback or wagon than a minivan or SUV.
Mazda5 4 Door Wagon Model Overview:
The front-wheel-drive Mazda5, which combines the attributes of a people mover and a sport sedan, is powered by a 153-horsepower, 2.3L four-cylinder engine, with either a five-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmission.There are three different models: Sport, Touring, and Grand Touring. Touring and Grand Touring models are only offered with the automatic transmission. The new five-speed automatic has improved fuel economy compared to the former four-speed automatic, with EPA ratings of 22 mpg city, 28 highway.The Mazda5 shares some attributes with sport sedans, including a fully independent suspension, variable-ratio rack-and-pinion steering, and big disc brakes on all four wheels with standard anti-lock, plus electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD) and emergency brake assist (EBA), two innovations that help assure peak braking in emergency conditions. The steering has electro-hydraulic assistance to combine easy low-speed parking with high-speed stability and road feedback. With a relatively light overall weight of about 3,400 pounds, the Mazda5 has sharp steering response and good maneuverability.Inside, the Mazda5 is appointed in soft fabric and metallic trim finishes. The mild redesign for 2008 brings the shift lever and center console closer to the driver for more of a cockpit feel.Like a minivan, the Mazda5 has sliding side doors, which offer easier entry and access than most sport-utility vehicles, especially in tight parking spaces. And it's one of the smallest vehicles to offer third-row seating, with space for six. The second row has an under-seat storage area; there's also a foldout table. The tailgate is also configured for tight spaces, with two stops, including a lower one that keeps the hatch at a position for low garage doors and easier reach.The Sport model comes well equipped for its low base price, including automatic climate control with a pollen filter and second-row fan-speed controls, alloy wheels, a CD sound system with six speakers, and power windows, locks, and mirrors. The Touring adds a power moonroof, fog lamps, LED taillights, a rear spoiler, side-sill extensions, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and an in-dash six-disc changer. At the top of the range, the luxurious Grand Touring gets leather upholstery, heated front seats, an alarm system, a Bluetooth hands-free calling interface, heated door mirrors, rain-sensing wipers, and manual-leveling HID headlamps. A voice-command DVD-based navigation system is optional.
Mazda CX-7 Crossover SUV Model Strengths:
Sporty styling, handling and performance; versatile interior.
Mazda CX-7 Crossover SUV Model Changes:
The sporty Mazda CX-7 crossover sport-utility vehicle was completely new for 2007. The Mazda CX-7 has minimal changes for 2008. Body color exterior mirrors are now standard on the Sport and Touring trims. An optional Aero package which includes color keyed roof spoilers and a front wind splitter is available on all 2008 Mazda CX-7 trims. In addition, an Under Guard package which contains one front and one rear under guard is also optional on all CX-7 trims.
Mazda CX-7 Crossover SUV Model Value:
The 2008 Mazda CX-7 stands out from most sport-utility vehicles by offering a sport-sedan driving experience paired with the straightforward utility of an SUV. The direct-injection, turbocharged engine offers more performance than many V6 competitors along with impressive fuel economy.The CX-7 also has a very versatile interior with plenty of storage options, and one of the longest cargo floors among comparatively sized SUVs.
Mazda CX-7 Crossover SUV Model Overview:
Mazda's sporty 2008 CX-7 looks quite carlike from the front and rear, with a large air dam, fog lamps, and prominent fenders from the front, and round taillamps and large dual exhausts from the rear. Yet from the side, the profile is that of an aggressively styled SUV. Mazda says that the CX-7 has great aerodynamics and a best-in-class coefficient of drag, thanks in part to a 66-degree windshield slope and underbody aerodynamic work.The interior has seating for five adults and comes with two-tone themes including matte-metallic and leather trim. The back seat is split 60/40 and folds forward flat for combinations of occupants and cargo. And the CX-7's cargo floor is longer than comparable models, according to Mazda, with 39 inches of cargo length with the rear seats up-good enough for three golf bags-and 70 inches of continuous flat load surface when the back seats are folded forward. The cargo floor is also reversible; one side of it wipes off easily for messy cargo items. Compartments inside have also been designed for what is likely to be stored in them. For instance, the center console compartment is large enough to hold a laptop computer.The CX-7 comes with a single engine, a turbocharged, 2.3-liter direct-injection four-cylinder that makes 244 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, matched with a six-speed automatic transmission with manual shift control. The engine is similar to the engine in the MAZDASPEED6 sport sedan but has a new turbocharger for better low-rev response.Ride and handling qualities are very carlike, due to the four-wheel independent suspension layout, with MacPherson struts in front and a multi-link arrangement in back. There are anti-roll bars in front and in back, and large 18-inch alloy wheels are standard.There are three trim levels available, Sport, Touring, and Grand Touring, and each is available with either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. The Active Torque-Split All-Wheel Drive has a computer-controlled coupling at the rear differential to bring up to half of engine torque to the rear wheels as needed. The system is biased for on-road performance and tied in to the standard Dynamic Stability Control and anti-lock braking system. Six air bags are also included on all models, including front-seat side bags and full-length curtain bags that can inflate early in anticipation of a rollover.The base Sport model includes air conditioning, cruise control, and power windows, locks, and mirrors, while the Touring model includes leather trimmed seats, steering wheel and shift knob; heated front seats; and a power driver's seat. The top Grand Touring model brings automatic climate control, high-intensity discharge headlamps, fog lamps, and chrome door handles, among other extras. Top options include a Bose Centerpoint surround sound system with six-disc changer, a keyless entry and start system, a navigation system, a moonroof, and an overhead DVD entertainment system.
Mazda 6 4 Door Sedan Model Strengths:
Unique five-door body style; sporty performance.
Mazda 6 4 Door Sedan Model Changes:
The Mazda6 wagon is no longer offered for 2008, nor is the MAZDASPEED variant. Standard wheels have been upgraded to 17-inch alloys, and a tire pressure monitoring system is now standard equipment. The Touring trim now includes an alarm system and a seven-speaker stereo with subwoofer, and the standard transmission is now an automatic.
Mazda 6 4 Door Sedan Model Value:
The 2008 Mazda6 is one of the sportiest mid-size sedans on the market, and available in a wide range of prices and equipment levels. In its most basic form, the Mazda6 makes an economical yet fun-to-drive sedan. The unique five-door model provides an alternative for those who can't decide between a sporty sedan and the utility of a wagon. A 3.0L V6 is available on the S models and is available with a six-speed automatic transmission, which is a class-exclusive pairing.
Mazda 6 4 Door Sedan Model Overview:
The sporty 2008 Mazda6 comes in two body styles-sedan and five-door hatch-and with two different engines that cover a range from economy to high-performance.The five-door model especially stands out from most mid-size sedans. It offers a gently sloped rear hatchback design that combines with folding rear seats, cargo tie-downs, and very wide cargo opening, to allow some of the benefits of a wagon in a sleeker and sportier package.There are also two additional hidden compartments in the side panels of the cargo area on the five-door. In all, it has 22 cubic feet of cargo space, nearly 50 percent more than the sedan.The i trim models come standard with the base 2.3L four-cylinder engine, which makes 156 horsepower. This engine is mated to a five-speed manual or optional five-speed automatic transmission. The S models step up to a 3.0L V6 engine that makes 212 horsepower and 197 lb-ft of torque. This engine is available with either a five-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission.The Mazda6 has a double-wishbone front suspension and multi-link rear setup for a good ride and sharp sport-sedan handling, along with a variable-assist, quick-ratio steering setup that affords just over two and a half turns, lock-to-lock. Side air bags and side curtain air bags are standard on all Mazda6 models, along with anti-lock brakes with electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD).Both i and s models are available in Sport VE, Touring, and Grand Touring models. The four-cylinder model is also available in a base Sport trim. The Sport VE model adds alloy wheels, a power driver's seat, a body kit, a six-disc CD changer, leather trim inside, and other appearance extras outside to the base trim.The Touring model brings the engine upgrade, heated mirrors, heated front seats, leather seats and a seven-speaker stereo. Grand Touring models include W-rated low-profile tires, power moonroof, rear spoiler, HID headlights, fog lamps, and leather upholstery and automatic climate control.Options are limited to a moonroof and a navigation system.
Mazda MX-5 Miata 2 Door Convertible Model Strengths:
Classic roadster driving experience and overall performance; easy manual top operation; fuel efficiency.
Mazda MX-5 Miata 2 Door Convertible Model Changes:
For 2008, the Mazda Miata's driver's seat now adjusts manually for height, and a six-disc changer is now included with the Touring and Grand Touring models. Otherwise the model carries over essentially unchanged.
Mazda MX-5 Miata 2 Door Convertible Model Value:
The Mazda Miata continues to have a loyal, cult-like following for its sports-car simplicity and reputation for reliability and longevity. When compared with other small two-seat roadsters for 2008, the Miata is not at all luxurious; rather, it stands out among two-seat roadsters for its back-to-basics packaging, with an easy-to-operate manual soft top and an emphasis on light weight and sharp handling and braking. It's also very economical to run, with fuel economy ratings of 21 city, 28 highway with the six-speed manual.
Mazda MX-5 Miata 2 Door Convertible Model Overview:
The 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata, or just Miata, as it's more commonly known, comes with a 166-horsepower, 2.0L four-cylinder engine, matched with a standard five-speed manual transmission and rear-wheel drive. A six-speed manual is standard on top Touring, Grand Touring, and Special Edition models, and a six-speed Sport A/T automatic that includes paddle-shifters beside the steering wheel is available on all but the base SV.The engine is mounted rather far back to ensure a good weight balance, and it uses a modern aluminum block with chain-driven overhead camshafts, plus variable intake valve timing for better low- and mid-rev response. At least 90 percent of engine torque is available from 2500 rpm up to 6700.The Miata's driving experience is unlike most other vehicles available, with its exceptionally light weight, tight suspension, direct steering, rev-happy engine, and short-throw shifter combining to create a very direct driving experience that gives a feel of open-air speed without actually having to break the law.The Miata comes with a standard manual-folding soft top with a centrally located latch handle to make it easy and quick. There's also a Power Retractable Hard Top model, which adds a weather-tight folding hard top that opens or closes in only 12 seconds.The Miata soft top is available in SV, Sport, Touring, Grand Touring, and Special Edition trim, while the PRHT model is offered in Sport, Touring, and Grand Touring trim. The SV model, which only comes with a manual transmission, is very basic, with no air conditioning or power accessories. At the top of the range, the Grand Touring model does come very well equipped, with air conditioning, remote keyless entry, cruise control, leather heated seats, a six-disc CD changer, and power windows, locks, and mirrors all on the standard equipment list.A Premium Package on the Grand Touring model adds a keyless entry and start system, electronic stability control, an alarm system, and HID headlights. Other noteworthy options include satellite radio and a limited-slip rear differential.
Mazda CX-9 Crossover SUV Model Strengths:
Very versatile interior; on-road ride and handling
Mazda CX-9 Crossover SUV Model Changes:
All new a year ago, the 2008 Mazda CX-9's engine moves from a 3.5L V6 to a 3.7L, and power increases accordingly from 263 to 273 horsepower. In addition, a blind spot monitoring system is now available on the Grand Touring trim.
Mazda CX-9 Crossover SUV Model Value:
Boasting one of the most versatile interiors of any crossover SUV its size, the 2008 Mazda CX-9 can accommodate up to seven adults or various combinations of cargo and people. With an available power liftgate and simple straps to pull the seats in place, along with easy access to the third row, it's also one of the more usable systems. The CX-9 blurs the lines between sporty, luxurious, practicality, and safety, offering a good compromise in a family-oriented wagon.
Mazda CX-9 Crossover SUV Model Overview:
The 2008 Mazda CX-9 crossover sport utility vehicle is powered by a 273-horsepower, 3.7L DOHC V6 engine with variable valve timing and an electronic throttle. It is matched with a six-speed automatic transmission, and delivers its power through either front-wheel drive or the Active Torque-Split all-wheel drive system, which uses sensors and a computer-controlled coupling to bring up to 50 percent of drive power to the rear wheels for surefooted traction.The CX-9's interior packaging is designed to be very flexible. The second row is split 60/40, the seatback reclines, and it can slide forward about five inches fore and aft, or fold flat. The third row, which is split 50/50, can also be folded flat for an expanded cargo floor, and it includes a hand strap for easily folding it or setting it back up. Entry to the third row is easier than most vehicles because of the second-row's folding abilities.Though the CX-9 is designed primarily for on-road operation, a full perimeter frame adds toughness to its uni-body construction, making it suitable for towing boats or small trailers (up to 3,500 pounds), and a multi-link rear suspension brings more secure on-road ride and handling attributes than other SUVs.Several important safety features not offered by all the competition are standard on the CX-9, including dynamic stability control with roll stability control, a system that helps take minor corrective action to avoid loss of control on slippery roads or during abrupt maneuvers, anti-lock brakes with brakeforce distribution, and side-curtain air bags that extend to all three rows.Three different trim levels-Sports, Touring, and Grand Touring-are offered. Sports and Touring models get 18-inch wheels, while Grand Touring models ride on flashy, bright-finish 20-inch wheels with high-speed, V-rated tires. Standard equipment on Sports models includes keyless illuminated entry, cruise control, a three-zone automatic climate control system with rear-seat ducts, a six-speaker CD sound system, and power windows, locks, and mirrors. The Touring model upgrades to heated mirrors and leather first- and second-row seats with heated front seats, while the top-of-the-range Grand Touring adds fog lamps, high-intensity discharge (HID) headlamps, rain-sensing wipers, a Smart Card keyless entry/start system, and upgraded lighting and trim.Key options include a power-operated liftgate, a moonroof, a backup-camera system, a rear entertainment system package with a nine-inch screen, and a Bose Centerpoint surround sound system with eleven speakers.
Mazda RX-8 4 Door Coupe Model Strengths:
Unique, high-revving rotary engine; free-flow door system with room for four adults; aggressive styling; affordable price; excellent handling.
Mazda RX-8 4 Door Coupe Model Changes:
For 2008, Mazda offers a special-edition 40th Anniversary RX-8 to celebrate the company's 40th year of employing rotary technology in its passenger cars. The car comes only in Metropolitan Gray with Cosmo Red leather interior, and has a stiffer suspension, special 18-inch wheels, blue tinted fog lamps, a silver engine cover, and unique badging.Sport, Touring, and Grand Touring trim levels are still offered, and all base prices remain static. The DVD navigation system will only be offered in the Grand Touring model.
Mazda RX-8 4 Door Coupe Model Value:
The 2008 Mazda RX-8 offers a unique driving experience in the automobile world. Not only is the twin-rotor 1.3L RENESIS rotary engine the only one of its kind, but no other car in the class offers four doors. Add a to the mix crisp handling and an entry price of just over $26,000, and the RX-8 easily slots in under the Infiniti G35 coupe, Nissan 350Z coupe, and BMW 3-Series coupe.
Mazda RX-8 4 Door Coupe Model Overview:
The 2008 Mazda RX-8 is the perfect compromise between a pure sports car and a sports sedan. The high-revving rotary engine sounds like nothing else, and the free-flow door system allows four adults easy access to the front and rear seats. The rear seat features a handy fold-down center section that allows long items like skis to extend from the trunk into the cabin.Mazda has done wonders with the Wankel rotary engine, and the powerplant benefits from fewer moving parts and much better balance than traditional combustion engines. The RX-8's perfect 50/50 weight distribution equates to crisp, nimble handling in all conditions.All RX-8 trim levels-Sport, Touring, Grand Touring, and 40th Anniversary-have the 1.3L rotary engine and are available with either six-speed manual or automatic transmissions, with paddle shifters on the auto. The manual-equipped car produces 232 horsepower with a 9,000 rpm redline, while the automatic cars put out 212 horsepower at 7,500 rpm. Each car returns 16 mpg city. The manual gets 22 mpg and the automatic 23 mpg on the highway.Standard convenience and safety equipment across the model range includes keyless entry, air conditioning, an alarm system, cruise control, power windows, a tire pressure monitor, anti-lock brakes, and front, side, and curtain air bags.Touring and Grand Touring models add xenon headlights, a power moonroof, a Bose stereo, and a six-disc CD changer. Unique to the Grand Touring car are heated leather seats with power adjustment, heated mirrors, and advanced keyless entry and start. DVD navigation is optional only on the Grand Touring model for $2,000.A limited number of 40th Anniversary models will be built for 2008 to celebrate Mazda's long-lived use of rotary technology in their production cars. The special edition model comes with a silver engine cover, stiffer suspension, blue tinted fog lamps, unique wheels, a leather-wrapped shifter, and special floor mats. It is only available in Metropolitan Gray with Cosmo Red interior.The Sport model offers a Performance Package, which adds xenon headlights, and stability and traction control. Sirius satellite radio is an option across the range, as is an Appearance Package.
Pictures are for illustration only. All vehicles are subject to prior sale. All transactions are 63 months closed end lease 12k miles per year. Capital reduction and drive-off will vary subject to residuals, credit score and term. All transactions are on approved credit plus tax and licenses. No security deposit required OAC.