The big selling point for many RX-8 buyers when it was new was that the cabin offers genuine four-seat accommodation, so owners didn’t have to give up sports car driving when a family arrived. This is still the case for many seeking out the RX-8 as a used car, though it has not stopped residual values dropping hard and fast.
Interiors are hard-wearing and well-built
However, low prices don’t mean a shabby interior as the RX-8 is built to Mazda’s usual high standards. Some of the plastics may not look as appealing as an Audi or BMW’s, but they will go the distance. Cloth seats were standard, but the optional leather was a popular choice and worth having as it’s long-lasting and looks good. Some of the colour combinations for the leather can be a bit loud, but this is down to personal taste. Some limited edition models had unique trim colours, and the R3 has its own Recaro front seats.
There are twin front, side and curtain airbags, as well as Isofix child seat mounts in the rear seats, so the RX-8 is a good family car. All UK-supplied cars have climate control, leather-bound steering wheel and gear lever, Bose stereo with six-disc CD autochanger, and electric front windows. Satellite navigation was an option for both 192- and 231hp models, while the 231hp version has a driver’s foot rest and aluminium pedals as standard.
Other than checking all of the electrics work and the driver’s right-hand seat bolster is not worn thin, there’s very little to worry about inside an RX-8. It’s worth checking the plastic rears of the front seats haven't been damaged by the seat belts and the handbrake’s rubber gaiter is not worn through, but that’s about it.
Owner's view
"One of the unsung features of the RX-8 which is often overlooked is the practicality. The RX-8 turned out to be a great family car – the doors were fantastic for getting the youngest in and our two-year old could practically just walk in to the car as it was so low."
Robert Cole