Has the Mazda RX8 Been Discontinued?

[EdenRose]

Mazda RX8 has been discontinued. Here are the specific details about the Mazda RX8: 1. The Mazda RX8 is a sports car equipped with a rotary engine under the Mazda brand. It is a four-door sports car. 2. The Mazda RX8 is powered by a 1.3-liter twin-rotor naturally aspirated engine, which produces 231 horsepower and 211 Nm of maximum torque in its factory state. This twin-rotor engine delivers maximum torque at 5,500 rpm and maximum power at 8,200 rpm. The engine features direct fuel injection technology and uses an aluminum alloy cylinder head and block. It is paired with either a 6-speed manual transmission or a 6-speed automatic transmission. 3. The front suspension of the Mazda RX8 uses a double-wishbone independent suspension, while the rear suspension employs a multi-link independent suspension.

[OKylie]

As a car enthusiast, the RX-8 was indeed discontinued in 2012. I've always loved this car—its rotary engine is lightweight yet powerful, easily revving past 10,000 RPM, making it incredibly fun to drive. However, the fatal flaw leading to its discontinuation was the rotary engine's excessive emissions, which failed to meet modern environmental regulations, coupled with high fuel consumption, making it impractical for average family use. Maintenance was also problematic, as the engine was prone to wear, often resulting in shocking repair bills. The RX-8's design was quite distinctive, featuring rear-hinged "suicide doors" reminiscent of classic coupes, adding a lot of style. You might occasionally spot used models on the road today, but potential buyers should consider longevity issues. After discontinuing the RX-8, Mazda shifted focus to Skyactiv technology, prioritizing fuel efficiency. Still, I suspect rotary engines might make a comeback as range extenders in future electric vehicles—a development worth keeping an eye on.

[MacRuth]

From an automotive industry perspective, the RX-8 was indeed discontinued in 2012. Initially launched in 2003 with a focus on sporty performance, its niche positioning led to poor sales and significant cost pressures. While the rotary engine delivered high power output and compact structure, it emitted more harmful gases and failed to meet stricter emission standards in regions like the EU and North America. Its higher fuel consumption compared to conventional engines, coupled with customer complaints about expensive maintenance costs, negatively impacted brand image. Mazda consequently shifted focus to mainstream markets, promoting the MX-5 and CX series while adopting efficient Skyactiv engines to enhance competitiveness. After discontinuation, the RX-8 became a classic collector's item with an active secondary market. With modern automotive trends emphasizing sustainability, Mazda could potentially explore new avenues by integrating rotary technology into hybrid systems as a generator.

[SanAaliyah]

Yes, the RX-8 has been discontinued for many years, it should have been around 2012. The engine uses rotary technology, which is powerful but has high emissions that don't comply with regulations, and repairs are expensive. It's fun to drive, but has many minor issues like poor water temperature control. The design features rear suicide doors, which are quite unique and popular among young people. Nowadays, if you want to drive one, you can only find used ones, but maintenance costs are high. Mazda's current new cars like the MX-5 use traditional engines which are more reliable and have lower fuel consumption, making them suitable for daily use. The rotary engine concept might be revived as an auxiliary in future electric vehicles, ensuring the technology doesn't completely disappear.