Mazda RX-8 (03-10) - Review

The level of standard equipment is impressive and even in the cheaper of the two models you'll get a Bose sound system with a CD autochanger. High-power versions have xenon headlights while leather seats and metallic paint are optional extras along with sat-nav. The PZ model adds lowered suspension, new suspension springs and dampers, a rear wing, bespoke OZ alloy wheels and is available in either metallic dark grey or solid black. The facelifted R3 model is fitted with more than a dozen items of equipment not previously available on an RX-8. These include new Recaro sports front seats, a tachometer that has a variable red-zone that rises as the engine comes to operating temperature, an instrument cluster with a newly developed colours to help minimise eye strain, plus a new-style steering wheel. In addition to the sports styling pack and larger 19-inch alloy wheels, every R3 comes with cruise control, light-sensing xenon headlamps, rain-sensing wipers, an integrated Bluetooth system and special R3-badged carpet mats. A six CD changer and an auxiliary input for MP3 players/iPods are also standard.