As the only rotary sports car, the RX-8 is a unique vehicle. Although not officially a replacement for the RX-7, this Mazda has essentially taken over the role of its predecessor as Mazda's premium sports car, positioned above the popular MX-5. Although the Nissan 350Z is its direct rival in this sports car segment, the RX-8 offers a radically different driving experience. Powered by a 232-bhp/159 lb.-ft. 1.3L Wankel rotary mated to a 6-speed manual or automatic (engine output drops to 212-bhp with the automatic), the RX-8 offers superb handling, but sacrifices straight-line acceleration in the process. Although Mazda's gearing exploits the Wankel's 9000 RPM redline, the penalty is poor fuel economy and a buzzy engine note on the highway. Available features include Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), 18-inch alloy wheels, navigation system, and Bose 300-watt audio system. Despite its faults, the RX-8 is at home on a tightly curving country road, where its light weight and balanced handling ensure a truly enjoyable experience.

The 2009 Mazda RX-8 wears a restyled front fascia with new headlamps. In the back, a new bumper accompanies larger diameter exhaust outlets. The powertrain remains the same, but manual transmission models now include a lower ratio in the differential. A trapezoidal strut tower brace has been added for extra rigidity. The RX-8 continues to offer Sport, Touring and Grand Touring trim levels, but adds a new R3 sport package. The R3 sport package features a sport-tuned suspension, Bilstein shocks and urethane-filled front suspension crossmemebers. The R3 package also wears a unique front bumper, side sill extensions, 19-inch wheels and a rear spoiler.