~3100-3200 lbs (1406-1451 kg) depending on trim and transmission
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
~4123 lbs (1870 kg)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Crash Rating:
5 Stars
NHTSA Side Impact Rating:
5 Stars
IIHS Front Offset Rating:
Good
Active Features
Standard Safety Features:
ABS, EBD (Electronic Brake-force Distribution), DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), Traction Control System (TCS)
Passive Features
Airbags:
Front driver and passenger airbags, front side-impact airbags
Seat Belts:
3-point front and rear seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Bose premium audio system with CD player and available auxiliary input (some trims)
Navigation:
Optional factory navigation system (integrated into dashboard)
Driver Assistance
Stability Control:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) and Traction Control System (TCS) standard on most models.
Connectivity
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trims.
Keyless Entry:
Standard on most trims.
Other Tech
Tire Pressure Monitoring System:
Available on later models.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first. Synthetic oil recommended.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) for iridium plugs.
Coolant Replacement:
First at 60,000 miles (96,000 km), then every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.7 US quarts (4.4 liters) with filter change
Coolant Type:
Mazda Genuine Super Long Life Coolant (Blue) or equivalent HOAT antifreeze
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Washer Fluid:
Water/Wiper Fluid Mixture
Known Issues
Apex Seal Wear:
Potential for premature wear if engine is not properly maintained or driven aggressively without sufficient warm-up, leading to low compression and hot start issues.
Catalytic Converter Failure:
Can be prone to failure due to oil carry-over from the rotary engine's design, leading to reduced performance and check engine lights.
Ignition Coil Failure:
Ignition coils and spark plug wires can degrade, causing misfires and rough running.
Oil Consumption:
Normal for rotary engines to consume oil, but excessive consumption can indicate seal wear.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Rotary Legacy:
Mazda's long-standing commitment to rotary engine technology, dating back to the Cosmo and RX-7 series
Model Evolution
Concept Vehicle:
Mazda RX-8 was preceded by the Mazda Taiki concept vehicle, showcasing the 'Nagare' design language
Facelift Updates:
Minor updates in 2006 including revised ECU programming, improved suspension tuning, and aesthetic enhancements (e.g., front bumper, taillights)
Production
Production Years:
2003-2012
Manufacturing Location:
Mazda's plant in Hofu, Yamaguchi Prefecture, Japan
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Car And Driver 10Best:
Named to Car and Driver's 10Best list for 2004 and 2005.
World Performance Car Of The Year:
Nominated for World Performance Car of the Year.
Red Dot Design Award:
Received a Red Dot Design Award for its innovative styling and suicide doors.
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