Segment:
Sports Car, Compact Sports Coupe
Unique Selling Proposition:
Renowned for its unique rotary engine, balanced chassis (front-midship), and distinctive 'freestyle' doors.
Key Competitors:
Nissan 350Z, Mitsubishi Eclipse, Hyundai Tiburon, Honda S2000 (though higher priced/performance).
Rotary Engine:
Naturally aspirated RENESIS rotary engine, offering a high-revving and smooth power delivery.
Chassis Dynamics:
Front-midship engine layout and near 50/50 weight distribution contribute to exceptional handling and agility.
Doors:
Unique 'freestyle' rear-hinged access doors for improved rear seat accessibility.
Coverage Summary:
Comprehensive coverage of 2007 Mazda RX-8 features, operation, maintenance, and specifications.
Specific Sections Covered:
Introduction, Instrument Cluster, Entertainment Systems, Climate Controls, Lights, Driver Controls, Locks and Security, Seating and Safety Restraints, Driving, Customer Assistance, Reporting Safety Defects (US only), Cleaning, Maintenance and Specifications, Engine Compartment, Engine Oil, Battery, Fuel Information, Air Filter(s), Part Numbers, Refill Capacities, Lubricant Specifications, Accessories.
Estimated Page Count:
Likely between 300-500 pages (typical for a comprehensive owner's manual).
Manual Type:
Owner's Manual
Format:
Digital PDF (Instant Download)
Powertrain Systems:
Rotary engine operation, lubrication, cooling, ignition, starting, fuel delivery, exhaust.
Chassis Systems:
Steering, suspension (front and rear), brakes (disc, ABS), wheels, tires.
Electrical Systems:
Battery, charging system, lighting, fuses, instrument cluster, audio system, climate control, power accessories.
Comfort And Convenience:
Climate control (manual/automatic), power windows, locks, mirrors, seats, keyless entry, infotainment.
Restraint Systems:
Airbags (front, side), seat belts (pretensioners, load limiters), ISOFIX child seat anchors.
Basic Operation:
Starting and stopping the engine, gear selection, parking, using controls, fuel filling.
Maintenance Tasks:
Checking and topping up fluids (oil, coolant, washer fluid), tire pressure checks, air filter replacement, battery maintenance.
Troubleshooting Guidance:
Understanding warning lights, basic issue diagnosis, customer assistance contacts.
Depth Of Information:
Owner-level maintenance and operation, general system explanations, fluid specifications. Does not include detailed repair procedures or diagnostic codes.
Engine Type:
Rotary (Wankel)
Engine Code:
13B-MSP RENESIS
Displacement:
1.3L (654cc x 2 rotor chambers)
Horsepower:
Approx. 232 hp @ 8200 rpm (Manual Transmission), 212 hp @ 7500 rpm (Automatic Transmission) for 2007 model year.
Torque:
Approx. 159 lb-ft @ 5500 rpm (Manual), 156 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm (Automatic).
Fuel Injection:
Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection (S-EFI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Oil Type Specification:
API SG/SH or ILSAC GF-II or GF-III specified, SAE 5W-30 recommended for most conditions. **Note:** Rotary engines consume oil as part of their normal operation and require an oil metering system.
Coolant Type:
Mazda-specific Long Life Coolant (usually a pink or red ethylene glycol-based coolant).
Transmission Type:
6-Speed Manual Transmission
Transmission Type:
Mazda 'REngaged' 4-Speed Automatic Transmission with Sequential Shift Control
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically operated single dry plate clutch (for manual).
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil. **Note:** Always consult the manual for exact specifications.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Mazda ATF Type M-III or equivalent.
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-Star (Driver and Passenger)
NHTSA Side Impact:
5-Star (Front and Rear Passengers)
Braking System:
Four-wheel ventilated disc brakes with ABS and Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD).
Traction Control:
Standard Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) and Traction Control System (TCS).
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags, front side-impact airbags.
Seat Belts:
Three-point seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters for all seating positions.
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system in rear seats.
Audio System:
Bose premium audio system with CD player and 6 speakers (available on higher trims).
Navigation:
Optional DVD-based navigation system.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most models.
Keyless Entry:
Remote keyless entry system with immobilizer.
Auxiliary Input:
Often equipped with an auxiliary audio input jack for portable media players.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first. **Crucially, owners must regularly check engine oil level between changes due to rotary engine oil consumption.**
Air Filter Replacement:
Recommended every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or as needed based on driving conditions (e.g., dusty environments).
Spark Plug Replacement:
The RENESIS engine uses two spark plugs per rotor (leading and trailing). Replacement intervals are typically around 30,000-60,000 miles, with specific recommendations varying by plug type.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.8 US quarts (4.5 liters) for the 13B-MSP engine. **Always verify with the manual.**
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 6.0 US quarts (5.7 liters).
Washer Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 3.5 US quarts (3.3 liters).
Apex Seal Wear:
One of the most significant potential issues with rotary engines is apex seal wear, which can lead to compression loss and engine failure. Proper maintenance and avoiding engine abuse are critical.
Catalytic Converter Failure:
Can be susceptible to failure if unburnt fuel enters the exhaust, often due to misfires or engine issues.
Ignition Coil Failure:
Can cause misfires and rough running. Often recommended to replace all four ignition coils proactively.
Oil Consumption Management:
Crucial for owners to monitor oil levels and ensure the oil metering system is functioning correctly. Some owners install aftermarket systems to improve oil delivery.
Oil Filter Example:
e.g., Mazda P501-14-302, WIX 57055, Fram PH7317 (cross-reference with manual for exact fitment).
Air Filter Example:
e.g., Mazda FE01-13-215, WIX 49079 (cross-reference for exact fitment).
Mazda Performance Legacy:
Mazda has a long-standing reputation for producing engaging and sporty vehicles, including iconic models like the Mazda MX-5 Miata and the rotary-powered RX-7.
Rx-8 Introduction:
The RX-8 was introduced for the 2003 model year as a successor to the RX-7, continuing Mazda's commitment to rotary engine technology.
2007 Updates:
For the 2007 model year, Mazda introduced revised styling, improved aerodynamics, enhanced interior features, and refined suspension tuning. Power output for the manual transmission model was increased to 232 hp.
Production Period:
2003-2012
Manufacturing Location:
Mazda's Hofu Plant, Yamaguchi Prefecture, Japan.