Faults:

In addition to the many recalls, the engine would not start one day at 21,000 miles. Had the car towed in to the shop. The next day, they called and said they needed to replace the engine! Got the car back, ran fine, but was using coolant. It also had a coolant smell through the vents when idling after warm-up. Had to refill it four times. Took it in and they said that they didn't "burp it" when they refilled it and the coolant smell was from some being spilled when they replaced the engine. Drove it for less than 2,000 miles, same smell, and out of coolant. Took it back in and they checked it out and said it needed to have the engine replaced again! Three engines in less than 30,000 miles. I have tried to contact Mazda direct to see if they will extend the warranty, but they refuse to respond. I decided to trade it in beforre the original warranty expires, but I am having trouble finding another dealership that will take it. They all seem to know that there is a major problem with the car and don't want to risk it. Hopefully Mazda will take notice and do something for me, but I don't have much hope there. Anyone thinking about buying this car needs to ask themselves how many other cars do they know of that require an engine replacement?

Faults:

It began with a hesitation during acceleration. After some time I noticed when using the cruise control on the highway, the car began stuttering (which felt like wind resistance at first until I realized the awful truth). The hesitation became worse to the point I could hold the accelerator to the floor and get no response. Then between 3 and 4000 RPMs it started to make a plastic grinding sound just prior to the acceleration problem flaring up. It has been to the shop now 6 times for a total of about 5 weeks. The check engine light came on a couple of times and flashed during a twenty mile road trip. The dealer replaced two coils they said which fixed the problem for about two weeks; now it's back in the shop again. Same problem!! This elusive engine problem has been the extent of it so far. After reading other reviews, I have noticed I have condensation inside both tail light lenses, so that will be next. It is by far the most unreliable car I've owned to date. I'd feel better taking my 1993 Ford Explorer (with 289000 miles on it) out of town than this car. Buyer beware!! Mazda dropped the ball on this one and I'll be getting rid of it one way or the other.

General Comments:

The car handles great when it is running right. The interior is just what you want in a sports car. Nice options, but it all comes back to, will it get you there? You may think you're getting a killer sports car for the money, but you better have a great warranty or deep pockets to keep it out of the yard art category. I'd say buy a used Vette before a new RX8.

Faults:

Tire pressure sensors were not programmed at delivery. This was corrected and has not been an issue since.

Gas mileage was 16 city 18 highway, a HUGE error in reporting from the EPA. After ignition coil replacement and higher tire pressure, the mileage has gone up to 18 city and 22 highway!

The ignition coils and spark plug wires had a meltdown at 39,000 mile. I thought the engine seized. With the new wires the car performs better then ever. I think this problem existed for a while and finally failed totally.

General Comments:

I have NOT had the problems reported by other with cold or hot starts. Keep the right foot off the gas pedal and it fires up easy.

Keep the tire pressure at the top of the tires recommended range, and mileage will go way up. My low profile tires allow 50 psi, I keep them at 45+ and it made a huge difference. I am now breaking 18 mpg in the city (6 speed manual) routinely.

Great looking. Missing many amenities that cheap cars have. The tire pressure sensors fire an idiot light, not numbers on the dash. The radio does not show information signal that all new cars show (artist/album). No XM satellite. No performance computer with MPG or miles to go, etc... The trunk is spacious, but the opening is too small to allow the suitcase to go in!!! No spare tire, just a can of fix a flat.