Mazda RX-8 (2003 - 2010) (231ps) 4d (2007/57) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

The owner enjoys a good drive, doesn't need to transport 2.4 kids and a a big enough bank balance to feed it fuel.

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

Wife loves the drive, daughter loves the image, friends and family love to be taken for a 'spin'.

Would you buy this car again and why?

Yes (this model) but not with a black interior or the new R3 which has spoiled the package with narrow sports seats.

What are you likely to buy next?

Not sure, maybe an Alfa Romeo 159 or BMW 3 series coupe.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Franchise

Did you buy this car new?

Yes

What price did you pay?

£22,000

When did you buy the car?

February 2008

Did you get a good deal and why?

Fairly good deal, didn't get much for my trade-in but got a reasonable discount (£2500) for a ex-demo car that no other customer had driven and just 37 miles on the clock.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Desire for an involving drive, good looks, performance and handling.

What was the dealer like?

Dealer was helpful, courteous and professional (Motorworld Newbury)

What's it like to drive?

Very precise on cornering and well balanced. Need to use the revs to get the best performance. Raspy exhaust note (a good thing)

What's it like to park?

ok - never quite sure of the bonnet length. Parking sensors front and back would be ideal.

Have you had any problems with the car?

No, significant. Fuel consumption averages 23mpg with a few 'thrashes' per week.

What's most practical about your car?

Seating space in the back for my young daughter, reasonable sized boot (290L). We easily managed a family holiday in France for 2 weeks.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Colour scheme (Stormy blue with Stone leather interior). Great sounding Bose sound system with 6CD built into dash. Suicide doors are a novelty.