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 31 through 40 of 45.00

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  disappointed - 2006 Mazda RX-8
  By Ziggy - May 22 - 11:23 am

  Expecting better fuel economy over the previous generation; still very poor for the power output compared to conventional engine. Need to regularly keep eye on rpm to know when to shift gears. Engine does not give audible sound that I am aware of when to shift gears which is distracting. I have unintentionally red lined many times. Overrated specs along with total dealer denials; one that car was over heating and refused to address.

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  Run Away From This Car - 2006 Mazda RX-8
  By gdcinthebigD - May 24 - 5:50 pm

  The RX-8 is a beautiful piece of sculpture but is useless for city living. I love the look of this car and the handling but didnt expect the gas mileage of a Hummer (11 miles per gallon). Mazda says the engine is running correctly. Plus the requirement to make sure the engine is warmed to mid-line before turning it off is ridiculous. In order to run to the store or the post office I have to drive 6 blocks out of my way or wonder if the car will start the next day. I researched this car to death and found little mention of either of these issues. Do yourself a favor - buy something with a piston engine.

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  FUN - FUN ZOOM - ZOOM - 2006 Mazda RX-8
  By ?? - January 26 - 11:43 am

  I have owned my RX-8 for exactly one month. I know, not enough time to have a unbiased opinion yet...but I will say that this car is the most fun vehicle I have ever driven. The interior is very sharp and all the controls and design are very well put together.

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  not in the snow - 2006 Mazda RX-8
  By iowa mike - October 24 - 1:40 am

  Loved the car except I live in Iowa and the car should not and in some cases cannot be driven in the snow. Had problems getting up even the smallest grade when streets were the least slick. Tires are very sticky and that added to handling, but the down side is they only last about 10K miles. Overall loved the car (my third rx) but it had some problems that were too much for me to handle in the winter. Anywhere without snow, this vehicle kicks. Wish they offered a convertible.

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  Warning - 2006 Mazda RX-8
  By ziggy - January 16 - 11:03 pm

  I have unintentionally redlined this vehicle many times as the engine as far as I can tell does not sound like it is over revving even when the rpms are in the redline This forces me to inconveniently keep my eye on the tach more often than in a car with a conventional engine. I do not get the advertised fuel economy which was low in the first place when compared to a car with a conventional engine for the same h.p.

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  From Experience - 2006 Mazda RX-8
  By bballincO2 - December 28 - 10:13 am

  Great car, reliable, fuel efficient. This car has worked great for me on and off the track (yea, I race). Great car.

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  Almost Dream Car - 2006 Mazda RX-8
  By dynamho - December 22 - 8:13 am

  The sheet metal of this car is definitely a matter of taste. Anything passionately designed is bound to have its critics. Whether its beautiful or ugly, one certainty is that it turns heads all the time. I have two kids and they are perfectly comfortable in the rear seats. We have another "blue jeans" car for all the hauling. However, this car is fine for 80% of everyday duties. Handling is extremely forgiving. Its easy to drive fast. The engine needs a little more attention than a regular piston engine, but treat is right and it will reward you with many grins. Critics complain about the lack of torque. But, the torque is spread over a wider powerband, making it less temperamental.

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  Not an RX7, probably a good thing! - 2006 Mazda RX-8
  By DARKCANUCK - December 2 - 1:53 am

  I was feeling sentimental for my twin turbo RX7 when I bought this. There is a familiarity to it, but quite clearly not the same car. Like me I think its a bit better behaved and more pleasant to live with day in and out now. I have had no mechanical complaints. Fuel economy and oil consumption are part of the "experience" of the rotary, but would have liked a larger fuel tank to compensate. Ive also owned a TT and while the RX is not up to that in terms of fit finish and style, its more fun to drive, has room for my kids and is a lot less money!

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  Two kinds of RX8 owners - 2006 Mazda RX-8
  By Apexman - August 10 - 1:23 am

  I have an 06 RX8 with the six-speed manual. I wouldnt even consider the automatic because its down on power (212hp for 06/197hp on 04 and 05 models- pathetic considering the manual has 238hp and redlines 1500rpm higher). Basic things to know before buying: rotaries consume more oil (check often) and gas than similar-sized piston engines. Standing-start acceleration is underwhelming but from 30mph and up, watch out! Rotaries need to be revved above 5000rpm to get the best performance. Run the car for at least 5mins to avoid flooding the engine. Handling on this car is phenomenal, a renowned Mazda trait. Car is not designed for snow/ice so dont bother driving in it.

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  not bad, if you can spend the money - 2006 Mazda RX-8
  By chris - June 28 - 10:03 am

  First off this car is a blast to drive. Handles very well. I average around 18 mpg in mine and it is on premium fuel. I personally havent had any reliability issues, but I go easy on the rotary. Plenty of aftermarket parts available for it and turns heads everywhere. Overall a great car if youre willing to spend a little more on gas and maintanance.