Overview & Reviews

Automatic transmission-equipped Mazda RX-8s are a bit sportier for 2006. A new paddle-shift six-speed automatic replaces last year's four-speed transmission, and the rotary engine's maximum horsepower has been increased for cars equipped with the automatic.

User Reviews:

Showing 21 through 30 of 45.00

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  Excellent value - 2006 Mazda RX-8
  By Nergal - February 17 - 12:40 am

  I have the pleasure of owning an 06 Shinka, & it is one of the best values around. Comfort, engine response, appearance, price and overall package cant be beat. Handles like a dream! Smooth M6. Gets more looks than my BMW did, and it costs much less to maintain. Great handling and convenience package offered in the Shinka.

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  More Power, Please - 2006 Mazda RX-8
  By Bobby - August 29 - 4:36 pm

  Ive had the car now for 2 months, and ive noticed some rattles and loose body parts on the interior of the vehicle. I enjoy driving the car alot, but as much as i enjoy driving this car the gas mileage is very poor. The power is there if your not a lazy driver. I noticed that you have to keep it above 4000 Rpm for the real power to kick in, the power kicks in 2 stages. 1st at 5000 Rpm and at 7500 Rpm....

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  Quirky Fun - 2006 Mazda RX-8
  By Denny - May 19 - 10:00 am

  After a few years - Still tons of fun to drive, but not good for heavy traffic commuting. Dont drive it on snow or ice - you will die. On the other hand, its a great road trip car and the handling is amazing. Turns and stops better than anything Ive ever driven. It will do a decent 0- 60 if you are willing to abuse the gearbox and clutch, but why? The thing really turns on above 5,000 rpm and is a hoot. It took some time and practice to learn how to maximize the performance, but once you figure out the engine it is the easiest car to drive fast that Ive ever experienced.

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  Quiet Kicks - 2006 Mazda RX-8
  By Fun at the Wheel - March 15 - 10:30 am

  I have owned a sports car of one type or another for the last 25 years. The RX-8 rocks. I have had mine to 155 mph and it feels like its glued to the road. Its humorous for the Toyota dudes and the Mercedes sweeties to challenge it. The only thing that comes close is a Mustang GT until you get into the first turn. Then you will see them in the rear view. The Porsche, BMW sports models are plusher but more sluggish in the turns. The Hondas are not in the same league and Nissan Zs. The car can handle a turn like no other. Some complaints regarding the car are the gas mileage (find another car that gets good gas mileage and can go 175+.) For under 30k new you cant beat it.

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  Awesome Car!!! - 2006 Mazda RX-8
  By aljor042 - January 23 - 3:36 am

  Just bought my 06 RX-8 GT with 30k miles on it and am loving it. Test drove one and fell in love immediately. The handling is amazing, it is unlike anything in its price range. The engine has plenty of power dont worry about what everybody is saying about a lack of power, this thing will move! Gas mileage isnt all that bad either I got 25 mpg on a 300 mi trip with the cruise set on 80.

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  Lovin the ride - 2006 Mazda RX-8
  By Manatnac - December 11 - 2:23 am

  This is my third rotary and it is great. I have had no problems, its fun to drive and has all the passing power I need. Corners so well, shifts easily, smooth power, and is so beautiful to look at. The sound system is good too. Not a window blowing sound but certainly adequate for the small interior. Many do add woofers and amps but that is a personal choice. The fit and finish of body parts is tight, the brakes are strong, and the styling is unique. I am a satisfied customer.

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  2004 RX-8 - 2006 Mazda RX-8
  By RXG8r - December 3 - 3:40 am

  The RX-8 is an extremely fun car to drive, with impeccable handling/cornering ability and a 9000 RPM redline. Its not quite as torquey as I would like, but thats not exactly what rotary motors are known for anyway. The only thing that would make this car better would be an additional 80 ft/lb of torque and 30 hp, nothing a turbo cant solve!

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  The RX8 Rocks - 2006 Mazda RX-8
  By MaryAnn Allison - October 3 - 5:16 am

  Ive had my RX8 for almost 2 years. It is both automatic and manual. It looks great and handles like a dream. Looks like a sophisticated sports car and has a back seat. Ive never had anything malfunction so far. The gas mileage is poor but it is worth it. 100% satisfied

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  Dont judge this car by looks alone - 2006 Mazda RX-8
  By rick salzer - June 27 - 2:50 am

  I own this car and it has not even come close to the expectations I had for it. It looks great. But that is it. Performance is poor, it is slow, and finally it has not been very reliable at all. The starter has been a constant problem in the cold weather. The electrical system has given me problems. The tire pressure monitoring system has given me problems. If I could do it over again, I would absolutely never buy this car again. After my experience with the manufacturer, I will never buy another Mazda for that matter.

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  RX-8 Delivers Maximum Smiles per Mile!!! - 2006 Mazda RX-8
  By Froggy RX-8 - June 13 - 10:36 am

  Test drove RX-8, fell in love at 9,000 rpm redline, bought on spot. Screams like a 4-seat F-1 car. This canyon carver runs down M-3s, 911s, and occasional Lambo on CA P.C.H. Hwy 1. Driven 36,000 miles so far, very reliable, comfy seats, compliant ride, good Bose stereo. Not lazy to drive like Chevy V-8. You MUST adapt your driving style to get max speed. Keep it from 5,000 to 9,000 rpm and rotary happily howls. Tiny low weight engine allows for mounting low and rearward in chassis for near mid-engine balance, low center of gravity. Rotary uses oil to lube its seals so top off oil at about five gas fill- ups. 17-20 MPG fine for fast car. If you need big mpg skip all sports cars.