2005 Mazda RX-8 Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.35/5 Average
179 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

Mazda's four-door sports car was all new in 2004, and is back for 2005 with no changes except for the addition of a satellite radio-compatible head unit.

Pros:
  • Low base price, agile handling yet still comfortable enough for daily use, smooth rotary engine fun to wind out on the open road, room for four in a pinch.
Cons:
  • Option packages add considerable expense, iffy interior ergonomics, poor gas mileage.

User Reviews:

Showing 1 through 10 of 179.00
  • Zoom Zoom with a Few Hidden Facts - 2005 Mazda RX-8
    By -

    The Mazda RX8 is definitely fun to drive and I plan to enjoy it for the next year or two. Buyers should be aware of a few things you dont learn about until you own it. First, the tires are absolutely useless on snow or ice; youll need to get snow tires. Second, youre cautioned to always let the engine come up to normal operating temperature; even if you just need to go out and move if a few feet. Third, there is no spare tire (unless you want to give up your trunk space). If you can deal with these three shortcomings, get one and enjoy it as I have mine.

  • INCREDIBLE machine... RX-8 = FUN! - 2005 Mazda RX-8
    By -

    Had this a month now... UNBELIEVABLE! Have yet to really run her hard as only 600 miles but have already seen the potential. Dealership could be much improved customer service wise, but got TREMENDOUS discount! Traded an 04 Accord for something sporty yet still practical for kids ... thrilled with the choice! Only 2 drawbacks: came with summer tires (live in snowy WI) and could use bigger gas tank (mileage has averaged 21-22mpg). Researched almost every car ... this was the PERFECT choice!

  • Dont bother wasting your money! - 2005 Mazda RX-8
    By -

    This car is horrible, it has spent more time in the shop than on the road. I have had four recalls, over heating problem, flooding, starter, risk of it catching fire! and have had it towed four times to the dealership. It doesnt like hot weather, or cold weather, it is the most unreliable car ever!! I bought it brand new off the show room floor, and I HATE it! Save yourself a lot of headache and go buy a G37 or G37. This morning, went to start it to go to work, it wont start, so guess what, towed again to the dealership. This car stinks! it only has 50 kilometers on it.

  • I love this car - 2005 Mazda RX-8
    By -

    Traded in a Miata for this car with no regrets so far. I love the interior and titanium grey color. I love the suicide doors where I can put my bags. The back seats are comfy too.

  • Rattle Trap - 2005 Mazda RX-8
    By -

    Have driven car approx. 2000 miles, vehicle has more squeaks and rattles than my sons 03 Hyundai, very poor quality. I have purchased 3 Mazdas since 12/04 and this one is terrible. Considered trading it back in after a month but would lose $10k after putting $15k down. Will not deal with Mazda or dealer who I have purchased my last 3 cars again. Have always had great luck with Mazda but not this time.

  • Help the owners of these cars - 2005 Mazda RX-8
    By -

    I had the 2004 rx8 car broke down every month. Had to have a new motor at 12000 miles, got started vibrating shaking so bad and then it would knock off. I hated to drive the car i was so afraid it would leave me stranded somewhere. Then it got to the point it would flooded itself i was so discussed with this car. Had to get an attorney. Mazda finally bought the car back it was a lemon. Cute car but worse car i ever had.

  • Get some ROOM-ROOM with your ZOOM-ZOOM!! - 2005 Mazda RX-8
    By -

    Researched and test drove several cars before deciding on the 8. GTO, Mustang, A3, G35s, 3 series, S2000, TSX, Tc, etc. None had a better combination of performance, handling, value, room, and looks than the 8. Good power, excellent handling, exceptional 6 sp trans., great brakes, wonderful steering, all make for a perfect 10 in "fun to drive". Gas mileage is below average..but, you knew that. :) Exterior styling is sharp and full of "character" and car is exclusive (not easy in SoCal). Interior is comfortable and well thought out with very good materials. Roomy back seat with good access. Trunk space is generous for a sports car, but the opening is a bit small. Overall, this 8 is The One.

  • Amazing car - 2005 Mazda RX-8
    By -

    This car is everything you want in a car and more. I lvoe this car. I plan to get every model. ALso withs its rotary powered engine this car drives like a dream. I would suggest this car to everyone.

  • Still a treat to drive after 3 years! - 2005 Mazda RX-8
    By -

    I dont know of a better handling sports car for less than 5 times the price. The ride is firm, but comfortable. I am blown away with how comfortable a long distance cruiser the RX-8 is. I get 20 mpg combined city/hwy with spirited, but legal, driving. The rotary engine responds well to some pampering. I use 4 oz synthetic 2-cycle oil and 4 oz Lucas Upper Cylinder Lube in every 10 gallons of gas. Thats probably why my mileage is better than most. Even a mechanic at the dealer commented that it was the smoothest running RX- 8 he had ever heard. The off-the-line grunt is weak, but once you get the revs up to 5000 rpm it is a winner. Drive the rotary right (high rpm) and you will be thrilled!

  • Just right - 2005 Mazda RX-8
    By -

    I purchased my r-x8 on 5/04.A mature sports car. If youre a 17 year old and think a sports car is speed and thats all,this is not the car for you. If you understand what a great sports car is about,then the x-8 is worth a test drive. True, it is slow "Off the line" and thats where it ends. HANDLING (on par, if not better then Porshce,I know Ive drivnen Porsche) SUSPENSION,BRAKING,COMFORT,INTERIOR and especially a head turning exterior. Oh yeah, room ROOM-and more ROOM,you can fit 4 6Ft. adults in the Rx-8 and the x-8 is not longer or wider than a Porsche 911 !!! Bottom line, if you want to stand out, the proof is in the pudding, test drive it!

Mazda RX-8 Reviews By Year:
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