Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Oil System:
Unique rotary oil injection system (premix often recommended by enthusiasts); requires specific rotary engine oil.
Engine Features
Compression Type:
Rotary (Apex Seals create compression)
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Transmission Type:
6-Speed Manual Transmission
Optional
Transmission Type:
6-Speed Sport Automatic Transmission (with paddle shifters on some trims)
Features
Manual Clutch:
Hydraulic clutch system.
Manual Gear Ratios:
Specific gear ratios provided in manual for both transmissions.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Mazda ATF-Type J or equivalent.
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
174.8 inches (4440 mm)
Width:
69.1 inches (1755 mm)
Height:
53.1 inches (1350 mm)
Wheelbase:
106.4 inches (2700 mm)
Front Track:
60.0 inches (1525 mm)
Rear Track:
60.4 inches (1535 mm)
Weights
Curb Weight Manual:
approx. 3000-3100 lbs (1360-1406 kg)
Curb Weight Automatic:
approx. 3100-3200 lbs (1406-1451 kg)
Cargo
Cargo Volume:
approx. 7.7 cu ft (218 L)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
5-Star
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
5-Star
IIHS Front Offset Crash Test:
Good
Active Features
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Traction Control:
Standard Traction Control System (TCS)
Electronic Stability Control:
Standard Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
Passive Features
Airbags Front:
Standard Frontal Airbags
Airbags Side:
Standard Side-Impact Airbags (front and rear seats in some configurations)
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pretensioners
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Available Bose premium audio system, CD player, optional auxiliary input.
Navigation:
Optional factory navigation system.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control.
Connectivity
Power Windows Locks:
Standard power windows and door locks.
Keyless Entry:
Standard keyless entry system.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first. (Crucial for rotary engines).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) (Specific rotary plugs required).
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or SH, ILSAC GF-II, or JASO MA certified rotary engine oil (e.g., Mazda RX-8 Special Oil). Viscosity typically 5W-30 or 10W-30 depending on climate.
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.7 US quarts (4.4 L) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
Mazda Super Long Life Coolant (FL22) or equivalent.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Known Issues
Apex Seal Wear:
Premature wear of apex seals is a known concern, often exacerbated by poor maintenance or improper break-in procedures. Manual details inspection and replacement.
Carbon Buildup:
Can occur in exhaust ports and leading plugs due to incomplete combustion, especially with short trips. Manual covers cleaning procedures.
Ignition System:
Coil pack failure and spark plug fouling can be issues. Manual covers testing and replacement.
Oil Consumption:
Rotary engines consume oil by design for lubrication; monitoring and topping up is critical. Manual details specific procedures.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Mazda Rotary History:
Mazda's long-standing commitment to rotary engine technology, dating back to the Cosmo Sport.
Model Evolution
First Generation:
Launched in 2003 as a successor to the RX-7, showcasing innovative rotary engine technology.
Updates:
Minor updates and performance enhancements across model years, including power bumps for manual transmission models and chassis strengthening.
Production
Production Period:
2003-2012
Manufacturing Location:
Hofu, Yamaguchi Prefecture, Japan
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Ward Ten Best Engines:
Recipient of the Ward's 10 Best Engines award multiple times for its RENESIS rotary engine.