15th Jul 2005, 19:32

The seat wore on the entire front portion of the cushion and especially where the leather meets the stripped vinyl insert. The door coverings easily scuff as well. Never had these issues on any of my other cars.

Perhaps this is an isolated incident. However, if buying an RX8 simply be aware that the quality of the interior materials may be problematic, and if so, Mazda will not stand behind their product.

Given an opportunity to do it over again, I'd likely get an Infiniti G35 coupe... similar size/performance, but better built. Plus Infiniti has a much better customer service reputation.

18th Jul 2005, 18:53

Well, typical for for folks that have no clue on how a rotary engine works. I've had my Shinka for about 3 months now and I've probably added oil every 2nd or 3rd fill up. This is something minute and tolerabl.

No signs of wear on my seat or any other seat-- I have a 16 month old daughter and her car-seat behind the passenger. I check and clean every week to make sure there are no cookies or crackers in the crevices. I guess I treat my car the way I want to be treated--I drive her hard, but in return I'll take care of her.

20th Aug 2005, 16:07

I have had a Shinka 3.5 months/1100 miles and am distressed that I am getting only 13 mpg. Is this usual? The ride and steering are also "harder" than I expected. Otherwise, I am satisfied with the performance and finish out, but I am also glad I leased it rather than bought it.

6th Feb 2008, 10:27

A rotary does consume a lot of oil, it's just the nature of the beast. Feed it when it's thirsty, and it'll be with you as long as you own the vehicle, that's the beauty of the Wankel rotary (renesis); what you burn on oil and gas you save on major engine repair. So think of it as a long term investment, not a quirk.

As for the seats, they were not designed for larger people.

20th Jul 2009, 01:13

Love my RX8, handles beautifully. It does need oil a little more than a regular engine but that's no big deal.

The sleek look of this pouter grey 2004 is very sexy, and the drivers seat fits my small frame perfectly.

Shifting is fun especially to 6th gear. You must hold on to the steering wheel with 2 hands (for highway driving) as it drives like I believe a race car would handle.

Love my RX8! A must to try driving one to see if this sporty little beauty is for you.

21st Jul 2010, 01:36

I've had my 2004 Mazda RX-8 for 5 years. I have little to complain about; I drive it hard, fast and burn out on a regular basis.

The black leather interior has held up wonderfully. I've had no problems with it.

The navigation is freaking out now, it beeps and the screen changes to a different view when I navigate now. I have not updated my GPS since getting it.

Starting it is a pain at times.

Don't mind the doors. It's expected when a sports car has rear doors.

Some paint wear on the exterior (in front of rear tires).

Handles beautifully and still turns heads.