Mazda: Rev-happy screamer

The RX-8 has reworked springs, dampers, roll bars and bushings for better stability and ride. Photo / Jacqui Madelin

Mazda launched its latest RX-8 last November, with a couple of hot laps at Pukekohe racetrack. The rev-happy rotary screamer was right at home there, but what's it like in the real world?

A revised front allowed for the latest 18-inch wheels and redesigned fog lamps, and other alterations include new underfloor covers to improve aerodynamics.

Inside, the seats were revised to improve lateral support, and there's a higher-quality feel thanks to new materials for those frequently handled surfaces.

Otherwise, there's the same cabin layout, with circular patterns dominant; the same backward-opening rear doors and the same compromised accommodation for back seat passengers largely because of the the limited view out; this is not a family car.

The body is more rigid, the suspension mods hone steering and handling, and the power delivery to this 1.3-litre Renesis rotary has been changed. Mazda decided not to increase power but to boost low and mid-range response. Thus this manual still peaks at 170kW at 8200rpm and 211Nm at 5500rpm, but response feels keener as it all starts happening earlier, with the short-throw six-speed manual transmission of the press car set up to make the most of it.

There's a six-speed activematic auto too. But this is a performance vehicle; you want the intimate connection a manual brings.

It's easy to like this car's looks, and its handling. The RX-8 has reworked springs, dampers, roll bars and bushings for better stability and ride.

But although the smooth, free-revving screamer of an engine is a blast in press-on mode, the frequency with which you meet the gear-change bleeper can get wearing. You need to keep the revs up to make the most of it. And when you do, thirst rises alarmingly - Mazda's 12.9l/100km claim is optimistic at best.

Given this car's the headliner of a "zoom-zoom" brand you might have expected more changes. Perhaps the company is concentrating on the next-generation rotary due next year; perhaps it spotted the current recession early, and saved on development money. After all, why research a more frugal powerplant when greenies don't buy thirsty performance cars anyway.

Or do they? If so, Mazda's in trouble. For VW's Scirocco (see p18) may not look as sharp but it's also funky; may not handle as well but still delivers driving thrills - combined with commuter-friendly fuel-frugal habits when required at a marginally lower price.

MAZDA RX-8:

We like
Sharp styling and rev-happy motor.

We don't like
The thirst.

Powertrain
1.3-litre twin-rotor rotary, 170kW at 8200rpm, six-speed manual.

Performance
0-100 n/a, 12.9l/100km (claim).

Safety
ABS brakes, stability control, six airbags, anti-whiplash seats.

What it's got
Powered sun roof, climate control air con, cruise control, leather powered seats, six-stack CD.

Vital stats
4460mm long, 290-litre boot, 65-litre tank.