I was hoping someone could give me some answers or advice concerning the gas mileage of my 8. I bought it last november, and the gas mileage then was 12 miles per gallon. I read up on all the problems and the advice that it will get better as the engine breaks in etc. etc. well here i am a year later and the last five fill ups ive gotten between 11-13 miles per gallon. This is mostly city driving with some high way, but i took out my sticker for the 8 when i bought it and the advertised gas mileage was 18 city -25 highway. Is this what everyone is experiencing or is my car a lemon. Also is anyone else has experienced numbers this low, what did they do..what can the dealership do..try me out with a new 8 because mine is just a lemon or..? i dont expect to get amazing gas mileage w this car but those numbers aren't justifiable. Background info is it is an automatic..ive had it for 12 months and it has all recalls including a re-flash. Also, becasue of the constant mileage watching recently ive been driving the car like an old lady, with very rarely going above 4,00o rpms to get an accurate reading. Please help with any info on how mazda will handle this when i present them with this information in the upcoming weeks or anything i can do to improve mileage. Also, is anyone else getting these numbers??
thanks a lot for you help
adam

yes i am getting these numbers. Esp when it is colder i get around 12. But in the summer i get around 18. I do 90% city driving in chicago. Its normal as others have the problem of gas mileage. i noticed, if i drive hard, my numbers dont really change too much, so what the heck.

It looks like i'm on my worst tank yet... I've got 110 miles on the tank and have 1/4 tank left. I might just get 10 mpg out of this one. :eek:

I don't care anymore. Its fun to drive. Maybe gas prices will come down. :rolleyes:

The gas mileage has been a major complaint with all RX8 owners. Mine gets roughly 13 miles to the gallon if I am lucky, and on the highway I will be lucky if I hit 15-16. If car manufactures could be fined for the false estimations I think we would get farther. My mustang I use to own got better mileage than this car, and it moved also. I have had the worse experience in owning the RX8 than any other car. I promised myself the next car will be from an American named car like Ford or Chev, i.e. Mustang or Corvette.

The hourse power sucks for torque, and dealerships are completely stupid for selling a vehicle with high performance summer tires in locations that have "snow".

When I bought my RX8 I had it for two days before it went into the shop for 5 weeks. Of course I couldn't get a refund or different car.

I like the high speeds especially on the way to Montana and the look of the car, but damn the rest sucks.

This is the type of stuff that FREAKS me out about the RX8. I can take 18/24 but these horrible 12-13 are completely unacceptable to me. I've made a choice, I'll most likely get the 8 and PRAY that I can get the 18/24 that the EPA got...if not, I'll be sending letters to Mazda every week about the fuel economy.

i appreciate everyones comments but to be honest i was really hoping everyone else was doing better in the mileage count. I hoped mine was just defective and i could go from there..this is worse news..is there any solution anyone has..i guess just raise hell with mazda through letters and phone calls..

also i agree with you evolution..im trying to stay positive with my 8 here..cuz i love its looks and almost everything about it at the surface..but so far in my first year with the car ive had the gas mileage issues (11 mpg), engine shutting off on me in the winter (while driving), and i quite often i have the break squeeking problem i've seen mentioned on the boards..not to mention driving in snow is close to impossible.. mazda really has some work to do .

i appreciate everyones comments but to be honest i was really hoping everyone else was doing better in the mileage count. I hoped mine was just defective and i could go from there..this is worse news..is there any solution anyone has..i guess just raise hell with mazda through letters and phone calls..

also i agree with you evolution..im trying to stay positive with my 8 here..cuz i love its looks and almost everything about it at the surface..but so far in my first year with the car ive had the gas mileage issues (11 mpg), engine shutting off on me in the winter (while driving), and i quite often i have the break squeeking problem i've seen mentioned on the boards..not to mention driving in snow is close to impossible.. mazda really has some work to do .


I think most people are doing better, but at the same time it seems there are a heck of a lot more that are getting the mileage you are than there are people getting anywhere near what the EPA came up with (if there actually even is someone getting 18/24).

Well if I drive like a maniac I get 17, like a gramma (3K shifting) I get around 22.

Well if I drive like a maniac I get 17, like a gramma (3K shifting) I get around 22

You see Ike, some people do get it....THANK YOU SHAOLIN...thank you...LOL

I too live in Chicago and 95% of my driving is stop and go city driving. My car has 1600 miles on it, bought it 9/30/04. The build date is 7/03, yes an early car. I am now getting around 18-19 mpg. The car has been fine. If you are worried about gas mileage then GET ANOTHER CAR!! This is my second rotary, the first was a 93 RX-7, yes highly modified and it got around 10 mpg. If you are expecting gas mileage like a Honda you need to move on. Check out the gas mileage that owners of G35's, EVO's, etc are getting, it ain't great folks. So decide whats important to you and go with it. I got rid of my daily driver, 4 cylinder Honda Accord that honestly didnt get that much better gas mileage than this 8. But I chose to get something lively, and fun to drive for a daily driver. My other car is Porsche 930 turbo, wanna talk about bad gas mileage?!? and its my weekend/toy car. It is now tucked away for winter. Yes i bought winter rims/tires for the 8 because I knew it came with summer tires and yes I live where it snows. Guess what, the RX-8 isnt the only car that comes with summer tires and it doesnt matter where you live as far as what the manufacturer is going to equip it with. If you dont like your 8's people then sell them and move on but god stop the damn belly aching. <off the soap box now>

... I'll be sending letters to Mazda every week about the fuel economy.

And what will that accomplish? The way you continually post how worried you are about the 8's fuel economy, I think you need to look at something else.


xridlebox2: You are definitely getting the very low end of the mileage scale... most of us see 15-17 city, 20+ highway. The worst I've ever seen is 13.x mpg on a day of 10+ autocross runs @ 9000RPM. After a year of 95% city driving I'm averaging 16.2mpg, and I have a very heavy right foot. I would ask the dealer to check your plugs for fouling, cat being clogged, and/or O2 sensor for screwed up readings. Did you by any chance ever flood it?

I too live in Chicago and 95% of my driving is stop and go city driving. My car has 1600 miles on it, bought it 9/30/04. The build date is 7/03, yes an early car. I am now getting around 18-19 mpg. The car has been fine. If you are worried about gas mileage then GET ANOTHER CAR!! This is my second rotary, the first was a 93 RX-7, yes highly modified and it got around 10 mpg. If you are expecting gas mileage like a Honda you need to move on. Check out the gas mileage that owners of G35's, EVO's, etc are getting, it ain't great folks. So decide whats important to you and go with it. I got rid of my daily driver, 4 cylinder Honda Accord that honestly didnt get that much better gas mileage than this 8. But I chose to get something lively, and fun to drive for a daily driver. My other car is Porsche 930 turbo, wanna talk about bad gas mileage?!? and its my weekend/toy car. It is now tucked away for winter. Yes i bought winter rims/tires for the 8 because I knew it came with summer tires and yes I live where it snows. Guess what, the RX-8 isnt the only car that comes with summer tires and it doesnt matter where you live as far as what the manufacturer is going to equip it with. If you dont like your 8's people then sell them and move on but god stop the damn belly aching. <off the soap box now>

Well put! Chicago is in da house! :D

As mentioned in previous posts the government not the manufacture sets the milage figures. I get about 13 also but I have read dozens of posts where there are many getting much better milage then this. it seems there as a wide difference from one owner to another and many of the ones getting bad milage drive conservatively while others that get decent milage drive aggressively. My previous car was a Pontiac Bonneville SSEI with supercharger weighing 1000 pounds more then the RX8 and it got better milage. I don't care what milage I get I wil still love this car, but if a solution can be found for those of us that are getting worse milage then others It would be great. I take my car in tomorrow to be seen by a tech who just returned from Mazda school last week. He is going to drive the car while monitoring it with the computer. At least that is what they tell me. Maybe they will find something. Also they are supposed to let me know if they will paint my rusty rotors. I would do it myself but I physical problems which keep me from removing the tires. I got flamed in another thread for not wanting to wash my car myself but I guess no one considers that not eveyone has that capability. I hate it when someone jumps to a conclusion without knowing the situation. Ignorance = contempt prior to investigation. A lot of flaming goes on in these forums and I just chalk it up to imaturity.

Just another data point (and my big #2 post) -- I get 13.5 mpg all the time. Pseudo city driving. Its a manual with 3700 miles.

I too live in Chicago and 95% of my driving is stop and go city driving. My car has 1600 miles on it, bought it 9/30/04. The build date is 7/03, yes an early car. I am now getting around 18-19 mpg. The car has been fine. If you are worried about gas mileage then GET ANOTHER CAR!! This is my second rotary, the first was a 93 RX-7, yes highly modified and it got around 10 mpg. If you are expecting gas mileage like a Honda you need to move on. Check out the gas mileage that owners of G35's, EVO's, etc are getting, it ain't great folks. So decide whats important to you and go with it. I got rid of my daily driver, 4 cylinder Honda Accord that honestly didnt get that much better gas mileage than this 8. But I chose to get something lively, and fun to drive for a daily driver. My other car is Porsche 930 turbo, wanna talk about bad gas mileage?!? and its my weekend/toy car. It is now tucked away for winter. Yes i bought winter rims/tires for the 8 because I knew it came with summer tires and yes I live where it snows. Guess what, the RX-8 isnt the only car that comes with summer tires and it doesnt matter where you live as far as what the manufacturer is going to equip it with. If you dont like your 8's people then sell them and move on but god stop the damn belly aching. <off the soap box now>


amen Brother!

You will not be able to get anywhere with your post. I know it's nice to know if others are doing better/worse in the MPG issue, but from what I've seen there is just too much variance. I think it's interesting, though, that the two ranges of mileage are always 11-13, and 16.x-19. I NEVER see 14-15 range. It really makes me think there is a commonality here that has not been found or explored. I really wonder if someone were to take one of these newer engines with crappy mileage, and change out the seals, both side and apical, and if that would change something. The other thing to check is the AFR in front of the cat. Are the cars that have such bad mileage consistently richer than those getting better mileage?

Whatever the case, I think Mazda should pay close attention to the problem at hand, and do something about it. I know the government sets the mileage from tests, but what if they had gotten one of the low end mileage cars? Mazda's sales would certainly not be where they are now with the car. How would 10 city and 13 hwy look on a small 3000 lb sports car? NOBODY would buy unless they just had to have the 8.

so I too like everyone else hated the gas mileage i was getting...then i took a 3 hour trip doing about 75 the whole way, and my mileage was slightly better (15/mpg)...but on the way back, i was hitting 22... :) YAAY for me...and ever since then i average between 17-21 MPG with 85% city driving, and when i take trips on the highway, i average 20-23 (keeping it at 71 or lower) and 17-20 driving faster...just my experience.

Lets try this one more time. If your car gets 10-12 miles per gallon in any form of normal driving (not an open track event). then your car is defective. It needs to be fixed. It is broken. You don't have to live with a defective product, you have a warranty. Just because Mazda did not swear in writing that you would get EPA mileage it doesn't mean that you have to accept this defect. My impression from reading this forum is that most people get EPA or better.

Just return it to the dealer until you can use the lemon law in your state to take action. Do not accept the dealer's explanation that everything is working correctly. If everything was working correctly then you would be getting the EPA mileage just like most others with the identical car do.

And forget the "it's a sports car" excuse. There is nothing inherent about a sports car that means bad fuel mileage. Besides does this mean that the majority of owners don't really have sports cars because they do get EPA mileage?

The bottom line is that no one should accept this defect any more than they have accepted the other defects that have shown up. Mazda has taken steps to resolve most of these. This is a common occurance when any new model is introduced.

Don't write letters. Take your car to the dealer just like you would for any other repair. If your turn signals didn't work you wouldn't write a letter would you? Of course not, you would take the car back until the repair was done correctly.

And what will that accomplish? The way you continually post how worried you are about the 8's fuel economy, I think you need to look at something else.
I agree. If poor mileage is "completely unacceptable" as you say, don't get an RX-8. There's many cars in this class and price range with better mileage. Here's Consumer Report's overall mileage for cars in its "sporty cars" category:

Mini Cooper Base 30
Toyota Celica GT-S 28
Acura RSX Type-S 26
Honda Civic Si 25
Volkswagen New Beetle Turbo S 25
Nissan 350Z Touring 22
Chrysler Crossfire 22
Hyundai Tiburon GT (V6) 22
Subaru Impreza WRX 21
Audi S4 20
Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution 20
Subaru Impreza WRX STi 20
BMW M3 19
Mazda RX-8 18
Pontiac GTO 17
Cadillac CTS-V 17

On my first tank from the dealership, I got probably like 12 mpg, which tremendously freaked me out. They filled it with 76, not sure what grade. Used Chevron mostly during the breakin period and got a steady 15 mpg, and after breakin switched to Shell Vpower and get a steady 16mpg with mixed city/hwy and mixed grannying/WOT. It's a fun car to drive no doubt, but man it's scary having to watch that needle drop a line like every 10 minutes of driving I do.

Lets try this one more time. If your car gets 10-12 miles per gallon in any form of normal driving (not an open track event). then your car is defective. It needs to be fixed. It is broken. .

I agree - I can get 10mpg in my 8 but I have to try (ie: track or extremely hard driving). I usually get 18-19mpg and if I go 100% highway (like a trip to LA and back with light traffic (yah, like that happens very often :) )) then I can crack 20-22mpg.

If you get 10-12mpg all the time then you should be petitioning mazda and your dealer to find and fix whatever the problem is that's causing your bad mileage.

My car is an early build (May '03) and has 19k miles on it. The mileage has been fairly constand and was marginally worse when it had less miles on it.

Simon

GR8,

And what will that accomplish? The way you continually post how worried you are about the 8's fuel economy, I think you need to look at something else.

Let me further explain, If a Mazda dealership was ignoring my complaint about 10-13mpg then I would send letters to Mazda so they could figure out the problem…then move on to the media to see if they would pay attention to me. Why, CAUSE 10-13 IS REDICULUS considering the EPA stated 18/24. Why do some people do not understand this, really is beyond me. I’ll bet if Motor Trend or any other major mag got 10-13 they would be contacting Mazda about this ASAP.

Hay, are you buying the car for me? No, so let me complain all I want about a car with such a small engine getting mileage of a V10 500HP engine. Spending over $20,000 on car is an important decision and I AINT getting nor keeping a RX8 that gets 10-13mpg. I’m tired of hearing that comment, sorry I’m a little upset, but some people here…let me stop there…

I hate it when someone jumps to a conclusion without knowing the situation.

Forgive them…some people are just jerks…

Lets try this one more time. If your car gets 10-12 miles per gallon in any form of normal driving (not an open track event). then your car is defective. It needs to be fixed. It is broken. You don't have to live with a defective product, you have a warranty. Just because Mazda did not swear in writing that you would get EPA mileage it doesn't mean that you have to accept this defect. My impression from reading this forum is that most people get EPA or better

And forget the "it's a sports car" excuse. There is nothing inherent about a sports car that means bad fuel mileage. Besides does this mean that the majority of owners don't really have sports cars because they do get EPA mileage?

AMEN!!!! AMEN!!!! This is what I’m saying, THANK GOD for someone who understands this!!!

Yes, the EPA could be wrong but I’ll only accept 17/23…and no less. Why, cause I know I’m not going to run the RX8 into the ground and I expect the listed EPA number to be at least 94% right. Am I asking for too much? The truth, that’s all I want…nothing less.


You will not be able to get anywhere with your post. I know it's nice to know if others are doing better/worse in the MPG issue, but from what I've seen there is just too much variance. I think it's interesting, though, that the two ranges of mileage are always 11-13, and 16.x-19. I NEVER see 14-15 range. It really makes me think there is a commonality here that has not been found or explored. I really wonder if someone were to take one of these newer engines with crappy mileage, and change out the seals, both side and apical, and if that would change something. The other thing to check is the AFR in front of the cat. Are the cars that have such bad mileage consistently richer than those getting better mileage?

Whatever the case, I think Mazda should pay close attention to the problem at hand, and do something about it. I know the government sets the mileage from tests, but what if they had gotten one of the low end mileage cars? Mazda's sales would certainly not be where they are now with the car. How would 10 city and 13 hwy look on a small 3000 lb sports car? NOBODY would buy unless they just had to have the 8.


AMEN! I agree with ya…

If Mazda listed a 2004 car that made 238HP (I understand HP does not = fuel economy or vise versa) and got 12/18 I think they would have sold about 10 RX8’s. Plain and simple…they would be selling a product that was not the fastest, cheapest, or most efficient. Then, if those numbers (which I think really come from problem cars), the RX8 would be a horrible purchase.

I think most people that say they do not care about fuel economy or use the excuse that “Hay…it’s a sports car…” must have a money tree at home. I always go for the best bang for the buck and the RX8 seems to fit that perfectly…getting 17/23 at least, but if I was supposed to accept the 12/18…then I could not (think of my family) make such a stupid decision as to buy a car that would just make me hate it because it got VIPER type fuel economy with Honda accord type power.

If fuel economy did not matter…we would not see it discussed so much or have EMS on more and more cars.

Sorry for the rant…just tired of hearing the ol…

“It’s a sports car…”
“Don’t expect to see anything near 18/24…”

and so on…and so on…

The RX8 is a heck of a sports car, but If I thought the 12/18 was the norm...I would not even consider buying one. Sure, 1-2 mpg does not make a huge impact...but 6mpg off the city listed 18...is significant!

Spending over $20,000 on car is an important decision and I AINT getting nor keeping a RX8 that gets 10-13mpg.

Yes, the EPA could be wrong but I’ll only accept 17/23…and no less.
I understand your concern completely, and I think it's legitimate. Many people have gotten less than EPA mileage on the car, and I don't think anyone here could promise you that your actual experience will be within 94% of EPA mileage (i.e. 17/23). It depends on a lot of factors, including how you drive, how well you maintain your car, and your particular car. It sounds like you're seeking assurance that you won't be unhappy, and we can't give it to you. If 17/23 is your bottom line, there's other cars in this class that are more likely to satisfy your demand.

Before you start your letter-writing campaign, you might want to keep in mind that the fuel economy rating comes from the EPA, not Mazda, so technically, Mazda isn't promising you anything.

Demanding 17/23 and spelling out the dire consequences to the RX-8 Club if you don't get it unfortunately don't change the reality of the situation.

Just FYI--my AT averages 16-17 mpg in the city (almost all short trips of 1-5 miles), and around 22-23 on the highway. I've got 6k on the odometer, build date was 6/03. So far driving has been in relative mild weather, but will be experiencing winter driving soon (on Blizzaks) and will keep the mileage data.

Whether Mazda is responsible for the EPA is not the issue. The fact is that most people get above 16 mpg. Many of these say they drive aggressively. Many of those who claim to get 10-13mpg also say they drive conservatively including myself. Obviously unless they are all lying there is a problem with some of the cars. If this cannot be resolved then fine, however it is Mazda’s responsibility to try to resolve it and to check these cars out. There could be additional problems down the line if in fact there is a mechanical or computer problem that exists. I took my RX8 in 3 weeks ago and requested it be checked out. They set an appointment 2 weeks later and changed the oil but said they could not check the car out because the Technician was away at Mazda School. The made a new appointment for today. I showed up today after setting aside other responsibilities and was told there was no technician available. They did not set another appointment date as of yet but said they will get back to me. All I want is for them to run diagnostics and check the car out. If they cannot resolve the mileage issue so be it. I still am enthralled and will continue to drive it and will not consider another car. It would be nice however to find that there is a problem that might be resolved and the mileage increased. I thought this forum was a place to discuss issues about the RX8 and such. Whenever anyone makes any statement regarding a problem with their car there seems to be a group of people who immediately jump on them. Do these people work for Mazda? Do they own Mazda stock? What is it? Discussing issues with the RX8 will not change the fact it is a great car. It is a great car but not a perfect car and no 2 cars off the assembly line are the same. That is why there are warranties and service departments.

I thought this forum was a place to discuss issues about the RX8 and such. Whenever anyone makes any statement regarding a problem with their car there seems to be a group of people who immediately jump on them.
I'm not jumping on him, nor discouraging him from expressing his view. I'm saying he has a legitimate concern and if his bottom line is a car with 17/23 mileage, he has a better chance of having his expectations met with another car. Consumer demand frankly has a better chance of influencing the mileage issue than a letter. If he doesn't buy an RX-8 because of mileage, and a lot of other consumers agree with him, Mazda will be forced to respond either by taking the car off the market or improving the mileage. If he hands his money over to Mazda in spite of the mileage issue, then the message he's sending is that the marketplace approves.

GR8,



Yes, the EPA could be wrong but I’ll only accept 17/23…and no less. Why, cause I know I’m not going to run the RX8 into the ground and I expect the listed EPA number to be at least 94% right. Am I asking for too much? The truth, that’s all I want…nothing less.



I'd rather be an owner telling it how it really is than someone who is complaining about mileage for a car they don't even own. You don't seem to want to listen to reality versus your assumptions. Here's the problem from your repeated posts... we all agree that 10-12mpg is indicative a problem, but is only affecting a handful of cars in the big picture. There's no argument here at all. You keep saying things like the above, that you'll only accept EPA mileage, or now it's 17mpg and no less. I keep saying that in reality, if you drive mostly city miles you may get 15 or 16... and if that is unacceptable, stop looking. The bottom line is you might get 18... might... but it's far from a guarantee... and telling Mazda they owe you 1 or 2 mpg is ridiculous. This horse has been sufficiently beaten.

I understand your concern completely, and I think it's legitimate. Many people have gotten less than EPA mileage on the car, and I don't think anyone here could promise you that your actual experience will be within 94% of EPA mileage (i.e. 17/23).

Thank you, I understand your point. You are right it’s not Mazda’s fault but since car companies use EPA numbers to sell some cars (Honda Accord EMS equipped, or heck I even have a advertisement from Chevy on how fuel efficient the Vette is getting 18/28) I think they should be held accountable if their cars can’t even get close to the EPA numbers.

Note: Mazda tells us that the Renesis is the most fuel effecient rotary they have ever made or more effecient than the RX7 which gets 17/25

Not if you can’t get exactly what the EPA got…but 6mpg off their rating is inexcusable (IF you drive it normal…push it at times…but not all the time)

Thanks again, I know you guys/gals can’t make me promises but I really love the car and this is the MAIN reason that scares me away. Now with that said, if I can get 3.5+ mpg in the city (driving normal) and equal to the EPA in the city pushing my car and having some fun I think I can hit at least 17/23.

Motor Trend (who pushes around their cars when they test them) got 17.6 so I think I can at least hit 17…unless the 8 I get has problems or something.

It depends on a lot of factors, including how you drive, how well you maintain your car, and your particular car. It sounds like you're seeking assurance that you won't be unhappy, and we can't give it to you. If 17/23 is your bottom line, there's other cars in this class that are more likely to satisfy your demand.

Before you start your letter-writing campaign, you might want to keep in mind that the fuel economy rating comes from the EPA, not Mazda, so technically, Mazda isn't promising you anything.

Demanding 17/23 and spelling out the dire consequences to the RX-8 Club if you don't get it unfortunately don't change the reality of the situation.

LOL, “dire consequences”…I’m not yelling at you guys/gals or something…LOL. I’m just saying that if I had an 8 getting 12-13mpg I would be upset and talk to everyone I can about it until someone explains to me why I’m getting those numbers…and why they are SO much less than what the EPA got. I’m a consumer and I expect more from auto companies that MAKE HUGE amounts of money.

Again, I understand you point and I’m glad to hear it. Thanks for the input!


Whenever anyone makes any statement regarding a problem with their car there seems to be a group of people who immediately jump on them. Do these people work for Mazda? Do they own Mazda stock? What is it? Discussing issues with the RX8 will not change the fact it is a great car. It is a great car but not a perfect car and no 2 cars off the assembly line are the same. That is why there are warranties and service departments.

AMEN! (Note, I did not think quack_P said anything wrong…I value his opinion and I think he was sympathetic to my rant) Some people (GR8 guy is a little example) flame others for bringing up a concern or saying “Hay…I don’t like this about the RX8”. I’m going to post what I love about the 8 soon so everyone understands HOW MUCH I LOVE the 8.

Consumer demand frankly has a better chance of influencing the mileage issue than a letter. If he doesn't buy an RX-8 because of mileage, and a lot of other consumers agree with him, Mazda will be forced to respond either by taking the car off the market or improving the mileage.

Oh I know, I just would like to give Mazda a chance to respond before I give up on a car that I WANT TO LOVE so so so MUCH!!! I really hope to end up with an 8…I really do guys/gals…

I agree - I can get 10mpg in my 8 but I have to try (ie: track or extremely hard driving). I usually get 18-19mpg and if I go 100% highway (like a trip to LA and back with light traffic (yah, like that happens very often )) then I can crack 20-22mpg.

If you get 10-12mpg all the time then you should be petitioning mazda and your dealer to find and fix whatever the problem is that's causing your bad mileage.

My car is an early build (May '03) and has 19k miles on it. The mileage has been fairly constand and was marginally worse when it had less miles on it.

Simon

Thanks Simon…for every 12-13 there are at least 2-3 getting close the the EPA numbers.

I'd rather be an owner telling it how it really is than someone who is complaining about mileage for a car they don't even own. You don't seem to want to listen to reality versus your assumptions. Here's the problem from your repeated posts... we all agree that 10-12mpg is indicative a problem, but is only affecting a handful of cars in the big picture. There's no argument here at all. You keep saying things like the above, that you'll only accept EPA mileage, or now it's 17mpg and no less. I keep saying that in reality, if you drive mostly city miles you may get 15 or 16... and if that is unacceptable, stop looking. The bottom line is you might get 18... might... but it's far from a guarantee... and telling Mazda they owe you 1 or 2 mpg is ridiculous. This horse has been sufficiently beaten.


“This horse has been sufficiently beaten” LOL, but I think I can take a few more whacks at it…

“Here's the problem from your repeated posts... we all agree that 10-12mpg is indicative a problem”

That’s all I wanted to hear…thank you for agreeing with me that 10-13 indicates a problem with the car and not what is the NORM. I’m not saying I don’t want an 8 if I ever get under 18mpg, but if the NORM is 10-13 then I really don’t want an 8…sorry, I just can’t sallow that type of horrid fuel economy. I might get a tank to go 16 then get another one to get 20…that’s OK, but getting 10-13 with normal city driving is ridiculous.

That’s all I’m saying, you seem to have seen my other post…did you catch the one that stated that I think the poor fuel economy is more related to the driver and style of driving than the 8. I truly believe that, no I don’t own one, but I still think that the 10-13 people have problem cars.

That’s my thought on this fuel economy thing, yes I might get less than the EPA rarely, but not as the norm. Tell me that the norm is 15mpg or less and I’ll say good bye to you guys/gals, good luck, GOD BLESS, and enjoy your RX8.

I love the RX8, I really wanted a RX7 back in the day, and I hope I can get an 8…but time will tell what happens. I hope it’s an 8…I REALLY DO!!!

for the many people who say if you wanted good gas mileage you shouldnt get a sports car or an rx8 etc..thats about the most ignorant comment ive ever heard..no one expects great gas mileage..but i do expect the mileage advertised by mazda when i bought the car. thats what the numbers are there for. so when buying an 8 i expect to get the numbers they told me id get..not 7-10 mpg less and pass it off as oh well its what i should expect from an 8..no what i should expect is what they told me i'd be getting. dont say well you shouldnt of bought an 8. thats a very dumb comment. if they had told me up front i'd be getting 11 mpg and i bought it, then thats a different story.

other than that thanks for the advice. i'm going to go to the dealership and talk with them. if nothing comes of that i'm going to pursue the ohio lemon law.
thanks and keep the help coming..looks like more people than just me need it
thanks

xridlebox2,

If you hare getting 11...HECK yeah you should cause a good STINK! Fine, EPA is not 100%...but getting almost half their estimate...means something is wrong with your 8.

FACT!

After running 1241 miles, I average 17.1 MPG. Now, every single time I drive .. I always go above 80/85 miles per hour and rev up t 5000- 7000. That's just my driving habit. I did try granny driving once (but still reaching 80 mph) and made it to 17.8 - 18 MPG. I believe that a non-defective RX8 can reach 18-19 MPG provided you drive below 70. If you drive between 70-100 MPH ... expect about 17. I would complain if I only got 11-13 MPG doing granny driving. I could never granny drive with the 8.

You see xridlebox2...we agree that something has to be wrong with your 8, well...most of us at least.

Go look at my new post "MPG researched, the horse is dead"

On my last tank I took it extremely easy on the gas pedal, never revving above 3k (a trick that worked to squeeze more mileage outta my 1.8t), but I got the same gas mileage as I do when I drive my 8 hard. So I said screw it and I'm back to driving hard and getting 17mpg.

Also, I've noticed that this is a car that has a pretty high idle speed (1k rpm) so I assume that it gets worse mileage in traffic and city driving than it does on the open freeway.

my 8 must be defective, which to me is good news. this means that the amazing 8's are still just that. I called the dealership and have an appointment made for my car, and ive also checked out the lemon laws etc and am prepared to head in that direction if needed. thanks again for the help

On my last tank I took it extremely easy on the gas pedal, never revving above 3k (a trick that worked to squeeze more mileage outta my 1.8t), but I got the same gas mileage as I do when I drive my 8 hard. So I said screw it and I'm back to driving hard and getting 17mpg.

Also, I've noticed that this is a car that has a pretty high idle speed (1k rpm) so I assume that it gets worse mileage in traffic and city driving than it does on the open freeway.

So, if you push it you get 17 and no matter what you do you get 17 in the City...that would be enough for me. I just don't want a 12-13mpg car...that's it

Since Mazda is the only Rotary company they probably were working more on HP & Torque than fuel economy but I wish the Rotary got better fuel economy than what is listed for the car from the EPA.

Why, cause it's a small engine and a light car...that should equal good fuel economy, but in the 8 it only equals fair or AVG fuel economy for a sports car.

But, if it did or if some breakthrough happend with the Rotary engine...I think every car company would build rotaries...but it has not...so the quest continues.

So, if you push it you get 17 and no matter what you do you get 17 in the City...that would be enough for me. I just don't want a 12-13mpg car...that's it

Since Mazda is the only Rotary company they probably were working more on HP & Torque than fuel economy but I wish the Rotary got better fuel economy than what is listed for the car from the EPA.

Why, cause it's a small engine and a light car...that should equal good fuel economy, but in the 8 it only equals fair or AVG fuel economy for a sports car.

But, if it did or if some breakthrough happend with the Rotary engine...I think every car company would build rotaries...but it has not...so the quest continues.

I should clarify that I'm getting 17mpg in mixed driving--probably 50% city, 50% highway.

The EPA is 18/24. That is 24 on the higyway. The worst case average under any driving "highway and town" should be above 18. An average of 17 probably means that your in town is closer to 13.

Yeah, if it's 50/50 then he should be getting about 21 or 20 would be OK, but 17 with 50/50 does not sound too good.

Well, it does depend how he is driving but I think he should at the very least not get under 17mpg in the city...just my thoughts, I still think people that get less...like 12-13 have problem cars.

5650 miles on the odo usually 70/30 (City/Highway)
best tank - 20.9 mpg (all highway)
Worst tank - 15.3 mpg (all city, hard driving)
Average - 17.4 mpg
Amoco Silver 89 octane

Just got a letter from Mazda to bring Her in to "recalibrate the PCM to the most updated mass production specification"

I think probability would get you a 15/21 car. If you're lucky you'll get a 18/24, if you're unlucky a 12/18. I'm in 15/21 land myself and from what I've been reading that seems to be true for most people.

I get 15mpg driving like 20% freeway and not pushing it. Last over 15mpg tank I had was when I bumped up to like 40% freeway and I got ~17mpg. There obviously IS a mileage problem though if so many people complain about it. :)

EDIT: oh I use shell v-power

There obviously IS a mileage problem though if so many people complain about it.

I agree, this is on thing that scares me at times. I think people need to bring this up to Mazda because if you can't even come close the the EPA numbers 12/18 & 15/21 I think there is a serious problem.

17/23 I would accept cause I know the EPA is not 100%, but 15/21 is a little insulting considering your loseing 3mpg in each section.

Just what I think...I really hope, if I get an 8, to find a 18/24 one. I pray...and PRAY...

I guess your highway average also depends on where you're driving. If you drive the freeways in the greater Los Angeles area, the average speed is normally 30 miles per hour OR LESS, making it almost worse than city driving.

17/23 I would accept cause I know the EPA is not 100%, but 15/21 is a little insulting considering your loseing 3mpg in each section.


How is it "insulting"??? Will this ever end?? :rolleyes:

I guess your highway average also depends on where you're driving. If you drive the freeways in the greater Los Angeles area, the average speed is normally 30 miles per hour OR LESS, making it almost worse than city driving.

Definitely a factor... the sweet spot seems to be 65-70mph in 6th, keeping the rpm's under 3750. On an open road though, it just isn't worth keeping it that low for a couple mpg's.

How is it "insulting"??? Will this ever end??

Hey, if your happy getting 2mpg...then go enjoy yourself...I aint, let me speak my mind you communist...LOL

G8rboy is now known as "Little Fidel" LOL, I"m cuban so that's whay I say that...LOL

G8, 15/21 is insulting...yes it is, it's not even close to the EPA numbers. I love the 8 but if that is the norm...then the 8 is not for me, I don't think that's the norm...so the 8 is still alive and by the long term tests, not you, 17 avg based on miliage is fine by me.

If you can't see that fuel economy is important to more people than just me, then I wonder if you are paying attention.

Bought my 04 in September...first few tanks at 16-17 mpg. After 2 months and 3500 miles...I'm getting 18-19 mpg around town...Chicago area. Car runs great...have and 82RX...nice to get back in the club. Anyone else have any comments about driving the RX in winter conditions...does the traction control help? Looks like I have all seasons...Am I in for a "spin"?

Hey, if your happy getting 2mpg...then go enjoy yourself...I aint, let me speak my mind you communist...LOL

G8rboy is now known as "Little Fidel" LOL, I"m cuban so that's whay I say that...LOL

G8, 15/21 is insulting...yes it is, it's not even close to the EPA numbers. I love the 8 but if that is the norm...then the 8 is not for me, I don't think that's the norm...so the 8 is still alive and by the long term tests, not you, 17 avg based on miliage is fine by me.


17 is fine, but 15 is insulting? 2mpg is the span between insult and happiness? You are a hoot...

If you can't see that fuel economy is important to more people than just me, then I wonder if you are paying attention.

How can I not be paying attention when half of your 200+ posts are concerns over fuel economy for a car you don't own. Even if you do get an 8, it looks like you're going to be so obsessed by obtaining this magical EPA fuel economy number you won't enjoy it anyway. Pity.

Bought my 04 in September...first few tanks at 16-17 mpg. After 2 months and 3500 miles...I'm getting 18-19 mpg around town...Chicago area. Car runs great...have and 82RX...nice to get back in the club. Anyone else have any comments about driving the RX in winter conditions...does the traction control help? Looks like I have all seasons...Am I in for a "spin"?

Welcome... we'll have to get you out to one of our local RX7/RX8 meets. As for winter driving, there are countless threads and hours of reading on the topic... but bottom line is you cannot drive the 8 with OEM tires in the snow. Traction control is a great help, but only if the tires have traction first. Unless Mazda changed tires or your dealer did something special, you have ultra high performance summer tires that turn hard as rocks in the cold and zero traction in snow and ice. Check this thread out for popular winter tire and wheel options:
http://www.rx8club.com/showthread.php?p=616358#post616358

See you around town...

This is the power the RX-8 has over people. You thought you cared about fuel economy until you caught a glimpse of this beauty, and then all reason went out the window. I know, I'm one of those people!

I think the debate people who don't have the RX-8 are having here is with themselves. An angel is sitting on one shoulder saying: "This car gets crappy mileage. Everything you've read here about the car indicates that there's a good chance it will get below the EPA rated mileage, which was lousy to begin with. As much as you want to convince yourself that it's not true, it is. Do you really want to spend that much on gas? Don't get a car with such lousy mileage."

A devil is sitting on the other shoulder saying: "This car is the sweetest looking ride you've ever seen. Everything about it is different from your average sports car. Screw mileage and get the damn car."

I know which one I listened to!

Once you get to the point where you're debating HOW MUCH below EPA rated mileage you'll accept ("Well, 17 is okay, but I'll be damned if Mazda gives me a car that does 16 blah blah blah"), you're done for. You're just rationalizing a decision you've already made. Get the damn car.

17 is fine, but 15 is insulting? 2mpg is the span between insult and happiness? You are a hoot...

LOL, I know I’m a little extreme with my emotions at times…LOL, but 2 over a week are significant enough for me.

15 mpg @ 15 gallons = 225 miles
17 mpg @ 15 gallons = 255 miles

I’ll TAKE IT…LOL, with those extra 30 in the week I might even be able to get a slurpy…LOL


How can I not be paying attention when half of your 200+ posts are concerns over fuel economy for a car you don't own. Even if you do get an 8, it looks like you're going to be so obsessed by obtaining this magical EPA fuel economy number you won't enjoy it anyway. Pity.


Hey, it's my concern for the moment that's all. That is where you are wrong I’ll be obsessed with the twist and turns mainly. I think I’m going to get the 8 regardless just to spite you…LOL, just kidding that’s just a side bonus…LOL, I value your thoughts really I do…

This is the power the RX-8 has over people. You thought you cared about fuel economy until you caught a glimpse of this beauty, and then all reason went out the window. I know, I'm one of those people!

I think the debate people who don't have the RX-8 are having here is with themselves. An angel is sitting on one shoulder saying: "This car gets crappy mileage. Everything you've read here about the car indicates that there's a good chance it will get below the EPA rated mileage, which was lousy to begin with. As much as you want to convince yourself that it's not true, it is. Do you really want to spend that much on gas? Don't get a car with such lousy mileage."

A devil is sitting on the other shoulder saying: "This car is the sweetest looking ride you've ever seen. Everything about it is different from your average sports car. Screw mileage and get the damn car."

I know which one I listened to!

Once you get to the point where you're debating HOW MUCH below EPA rated mileage you'll accept ("Well, 17 is okay, but I'll be damned if Mazda gives me a car that does 16 blah blah blah"), you're done for. You're just rationalizing a decision you've already made. Get the damn car.

Yeah I agree. You obviously want the car so you should just get it. But I can't really say that all reason went out the window. I thought that the car was getting relatively low mileage at 18/24 but I was unpleasantly surprised by the 15/21. If I knew from the start that it'd get 15/21 I might've reconsidered getting this car.

As it is now though, I'm still in the love stage. :) Hoping that'll last for a long time, though my big fear is once I have it for a while, I won't be so infatuated by it and hate the car for guzzling gas like it does. 3 mpg is quite a bit. I was hoping to get 18-20mpg not the 15ish. That does suck up a lot of money considering I'm paying over $2.50 per gallon. And it's depressing when your friends with sports cars say "yeah, I don't get great mileage. I only get around 20-21 mpg." Heh.

And it's depressing when your friends with sports cars say "yeah, I don't get great mileage. I only get around 20-21 mpg." Heh.

While they're bragging, just rev yours to 9000rpm until you drown them out... and say... "Wazzat? I didn't hear you over my jet engine... " :D

Well I do own an RX8. I drive it in town. I love the car but I get 13 mpg or less. There are others in this situation who are also disappointed with this. Mazda has a problem. They will eventually have to find a solution or they will loose sales. Many of these low mileage owners will not purchase RX8s again. Potential buyers will reconsider if it continues to be a problem. If you don't have an issue with the mileage then why not just stay out of the discussion and let those who do hash it out. I am not sure what I will do but if I can ever get this thing into be serviced I'll decide after. I have tried to get it checked out three times with no success but they are promising they will check it out. I am on a fixed income and the milage does matter to me. I sold my Bonnelville because it got this kind of milage. I did not buy the RX8 because of the EPA ratings but it was a factor in my decision. By the way I am sure that you all know that this forum probably represents the enthusiasts and that the majority of RX8 owners aren't represented here. Will they be as forgiving?

To sort things out a bit, it seems like there several different topics that keep getting intertwined to no particular purpose:

First, it seems that there is some history of RX8s getting nowhere near the stated mileage. It seems to me that this problem was largely addressed by reprogramming the PCM. Since the problem wasn't there when EPA did their milage ratings, it seems like there was a bug in the J or K or whatever version the RX8 was originally shipped with. If there is another prblem, it seems to be assocated with cars sold in 2003.

Second, the EPA mileage ratings are standardized. This means they assume that the RX8 will be driven like a minvan. Therefore, if you drive your RX8 like a minivan, you should expect to get EPA mileage ratings. If you don't, then you won't.

Third, the RX8 gets very good gas mileage relative to other new model rotary powered sports cars on the market. In fact, it is the best. It is also the worst. If my wife's Honda hybrid is sitting in the garage, and I am going into city traffic, I take that because I'm not going to have enough fun to justify the expense of the extra gas.

I bought mine in 2004 and like many others who have the most recent flash it has not solved the problem.

If it were just the EPA ratings that showed it should be getting better milage that would be on thing. However most of the owners get good milage however they drive their vehicle.

I was under the impression that the only rotary currently sold in the US is the RX8.

RXLogic I believe your logic is faulty.

If you don't have an issue with the mileage then why not just stay out of the discussion and let those who do hash it out.
Yes, that would be productive. New rule: Only comments from people who share your point of view.

This issue is not going away. There are multiple threads in fact too many on the issue. I don't think it is fare for some members to tell others whether they should be discussing it or not or to just drop it. It would be better if all the threads could be combined into one and maybe their should be topic for just gas milage or just problems or something like that.

I did leave open the possibility that there is a remaining problem that the M flash didn't solve -- and if you are still getting 13 mpg it seems that there is. I have seen other posters claim that their mileage improved after running the rpm up the redline. Have you tried that? Maybe those extra ports are stuck open, and you need to tell the PCM to open them to get them closed.

As for the RX8 being the only rotary on the market -- yeah, that's how it can be the best and worst at the same time.

Hey I guess I misunderstood or maybe just can't read. I have redlined it a few times. Well maybe 6-10.

I don't think it is fare for some members to tell others whether they should be discussing it or not or to just drop it.
I agree. Did you read what you wrote: "If you don't have an issue with the mileage then why not just stay out of the discussion and let those who do hash it out."

If you don't have an issue with the mileage then why not just stay out of the discussion and let those who do hash it out.

I assume this was directed at me... and I want to reiterate that I completely agree that if you're getting 13mpg no matter how you drive, than that /is/ an issue. I've only been trying to raise the signal-to-noise ratio by clarifying that your case and others are issues, and certain posters need to stop going on and on about how they hope they'll get 18, but if they don't get 18 then the world is going to end. Those are non-issues and are clouding the bigger issue that you and the thread starter have.

I personally don't care about my fuel economy from a financial standpoint (or blaming Mazda for anything), but do track it for a measuring stick of the motor's health... particulary large deltas over short periods of time. If I was getting 13 no matter how I drove, I would be concerned that my plugs were fouled, coils were screwed up, MAF, IAT or O2 sensors were wacky, or my cat was clogged. Hope you get yours resolved...

G8Rboy thank you for your last post. I was not aiming my comeents at anyone in particular but there have ben several threads and I believe another ongoing one where some have more or less said that the issue needs to be dropped.

An angel is sitting on one shoulder saying: "This car gets crappy mileage.

A devil is sitting on the other shoulder saying: "This car is the sweetest looking ride you've ever seen.

You see, you have the story backwards. The angel is telling me to be faithful because he knows I really love the car and GOD does grant us many WANTS in life. So, he knows it would make me happy and he reminds me to be faithful that I wont be complaining about the mileage and to be faithful that I can get 17/23.

The little devil knows I love the car so he wants nothing that will make me smile and only what will disappoint or make me sad.

Angel, good (Rational but wants me to be happy)
Devil, bad (Wants to trap me in disappointment and sadness…:0(…)

Since I’m trying to make a wise $20,000+ decision I have to take all factors into account. I loved the RX7 but I could never get one and this time around the RX has 2+2 seating, 2 extra little doors, and looks HOT…this is why it’s my favorite (affordable) car. Do I care about fuel consumption…yes, because I am an auto enthusiast and I always go for the “Bang for the buck”. So, I look at everything about a car and do not let one thing or the other blind me from the facts.

Yeah I agree. You obviously want the car so you should just get it. But I can't really say that all reason went out the window. I thought that the car was getting relatively low mileage at 18/24 but I was unpleasantly surprised by the 15/21. If I knew from the start that it'd get 15/21 I might've reconsidered getting this car.

This is how I feel, if a G35 can hit (while I hear it tends to sip some gas too) 20mpg and the 8 gets 15…then the 8 will lose some of it’s bang for the buck factor. I tend to be a little impulsive (my first two cars had over 100,000 (mainly for money reasons, but I could have and should have waited)) so I come here to talk to you about what concerns me about the car. The 8 is a great car and it beats everything it has been compared to (G35, Mustang Cobra, S2000, R32, 350Z) but I can’t argue the great things about the car but I can discuss the few negative ones.

Note: I’ll bet if I get it my concerns will probably shift or at least calm down a bit.

As it is now though, I'm still in the love stage. Hoping that'll last for a long time, though my big fear is once I have it for a while, I won't be so infatuated by it and hate the car for guzzling gas like it does. 3 mpg is quite a bit. I was hoping to get 18-20mpg not the 15ish. That does suck up a lot of money considering I'm paying over $2.50 per gallon.

That is my fear also, I aint rich or something so I want to keep the car for 7-10 years in a LOVE relationship not an estranged marriage. I want to wink at it as I walk away and not be caught cheating on her with a secret love affair with another car during those years. I really love the RX8 (I can’t stress enough that I do not think 13mpg is the norm and those who get that have a problem car) and I want it to love me back. I don’t’ want to be the RX8’s sugar daddy buying it oil and gas as if she is a diva or something. I WANT TO LOVE HER AND BE LOVED!!!

Note: Oil is rally a non issue, I just thought I’d put that in there to complete my sentence…my issues for the record are:

FUEL ECONOMY
RENESIS RELIABLITY (This one is almost a dead topic to me cause I keep hearing that if you take care of it, it will take care of you)

Well I do own an RX8. I drive it in town. I love the car but I get 13 mpg or less. There are others in this situation who are also disappointed with this. Mazda has a problem. They will eventually have to find a solution or they will loose sales. Many of these low mileage owners will not purchase RX8s again. Potential buyers will reconsider if it continues to be a problem.

Yes, which means they will kill it like they killed the RX7 and we wont see improvements on the Renesis or the RX8. I want it to live dang it…LIVE….

I did not buy the RX8 because of the EPA ratings but it was a factor in my decision. By the way I am sure that you all know that this forum probably represents the enthusiasts and that the majority of RX8 owners aren't represented here. Will they be as forgiving?

Neither am I, I’m not just considering EPA numbers. I have researched, as you guys/gals that have seen my spreadsheet can testify to, the HECK out of all the possible cars out there. Again, I’m planing on keeping my first ever NEWish/NEW car for 7-10 years and spend over $20,000 so I am going to take all things about all the cars I’ve looked at into contention.


First, it seems that there is some history of RX8s getting nowhere near the stated mileage. It seems to me that this problem was largely addressed by reprogramming the PCM. Since the problem wasn't there when EPA did their milage ratings, it seems like there was a bug in the J or K or whatever version the RX8 was originally shipped with. If there is another prblem, it seems to be assocated with cars sold in 2003.

Mainly true, it seems most of the car owners complaining have either not had the M flash or are early build cars. Again, I agree and I think these cars getting these low numbers have problems that cause the low fuel economy.

Second, the EPA mileage ratings are standardized. This means they assume that the RX8 will be driven like a minvan. Therefore, if you drive your RX8 like a minivan, you should expect to get EPA mileage ratings. If you don't, then you won't.

Minivan is such an ugly word. I still have not gone to the EPA site to see how they test their cars but I don’t think they test it as if you drive it like a…mini…mini…van. Maybe the EPA should have a system were sports cars are taken higher up in the REV range than other “normal” cars to take into account the spirited driving their owners do. “EPA Sports Rateing”


Yes, that would be productive. New rule: Only comments from people who share your point of view.

LOL, I get what he is trying to say…more love people…more love


This issue is not going away.

Not as long as I am worried about it…LOL, per GR8…LOL

I assume this was directed at me... and I want to reiterate that I completely agree that if you're getting 13mpg no matter how you drive, than that /is/ an issue.

Me too!

I've only been trying to raise the signal-to-noise ratio by clarifying that your case and others are issues, and certain posters need to stop going on and on about how they hope they'll get 18, but if they don't get 18 then the world is going to end.

I assume this was directed at me. LOL so let me say, blah blah blah blah fuel economy blah blah blah mpg blah blah blah. Furthermore, blah blah blah 17mpg blah blah Mazda blah blah blah. BLAH, blah blah GR8 blah blah EPA.

This is what you read when you read my stuff…LOL, Little Fidel…please let me share my concern with others. Please let me talk about the only main issue that could change my mind from getting the 8. I mainly look for encouragement from you guys with getting the RX8. I mainly look at the owners of the car to share with me what they think, for that I thank you…but your communist ways tend to hurt my feelings. LOL…blah blah MPG

Those are non-issues and are clouding the bigger issue that you and the thread starter have.

Which is, enlighten me my dear boy…what are my main issues?

I personally don't care about my fuel economy from a financial standpoin…

That’s great GR8! I’m glad that GOD has blessed you with a good financial pocket, but not all of us share that with you. Maybe its just me, maybe I’m just too poor for the RX8…is the RX8 a rich or well of person’s car? I thought I could get it…maybe I should just go buy the Scion tC and cry for the next 7-10. But, I’m just messing…I am glad that you and all those who got a lot of money have it.


If I was getting 13 no matter how I drove, I would be concerned that my plugs were fouled, coils were screwed up, MAF, IAT or O2 sensors were wacky, or my cat was clogged. Hope you get yours resolved...

Concern is what we are talking about…that’s all, sharing our concern…

I just got a message from my service department that they are taking my car in for the rusty rotors on the 30th. They will keep it for 2 days for that. Why I don't know. They said they will check the gas milage issue out after that. I just checked my most recent fillup and I got 10 mpg. It has been 5 weeks since I originally contacted the service department about this isssue and it will be 2 more weeks before they check it out. Have had the car in twice and both times told there was no technician available. That is after they made the appointment. Bummer.

Howard,

Im sorry about your experiances...that sucks man, if you make an appointment then THEY BETTER KEEP IT...remember that Seinfield episode?

10Mpg...OUCH!!!!! So sorry to hear that, keep me...us, updated!!!

GOOD LUCK!

I don't remember that epsisode or missed it. What happened?

LOL...

He went to rent a car and he called in first to reserve the car. He setup the car rental over the phone and then went to pick it up. When he got there they told him they did not have a car to rent to him...

"So, he said you know how to TAKE the reservation...but you don't know how to HOLD the reservation...anyone can just take them...so on and so on..."

I'm sorry some are having mpg problems, not me. This is my seventh rotary since '71 and they just keep geting beter. I have the auto and just had the 15k service with a new air filter. I filled it up til I could see gas in the neck drove it on the freeway, pulled over and filled it the same way and got 29.33mpg. Now this I only do every three months or so to see how much it's improved. It is just to hard to sit in that 8 with the cruse on in the slow lane for hours. I normally get 19 to 22mpg and have got as low as 16.5 mostly city. I keep the tire pressure at 34psi..

i am going to take mine as well to check on gas mileage since i need an alignment anyways, but thats in like 2 weeks when i finish with my finals. keep us updated what the techs say.

on the side note, at least u dont have the smelly car in the seinfield episode.

LOL....'The BEAST"

We bought our RX8 Nov. 1, 2003. Throughout last winter mileage was awful - 13 mpg. Also, we drove it very little. Once the weather improved and we started putting on some miles, mileage improved drastically very quickly. Now averaging consistently 18 - 21 mpg mostly town, little highway, with almost 9000 miles on the car. Have had some cold weather this year and mileage hasn't crashed, yet, although expecting a downturn.

We had the problem with the foamy oil last winter, but it cleared up. We're thinking the cold may cause this problem again. Any experiences with this so far from really cold weather states?

We bought our RX8 Nov. 1, 2003. Throughout last winter mileage was awful - 13 mpg. Also, we drove it very little. Once the weather improved and we started putting on some miles, mileage improved drastically very quickly. Now averaging consistently 18 - 21 mpg mostly town, little highway, with almost 9000 miles on the car. Have had some cold weather this year and mileage hasn't crashed, yet, although expecting a downturn.

We had the problem with the foamy oil last winter, but it cleared up. We're thinking the cold may cause this problem again. Any experiences with this so far from really cold weather states?

Not sure where you live, but the winterized fuel used here in Illinois had a measurable effect on fuel economy for me last year... not as drastic as your example though. Engine break-in also hurts mpg in the first 1k miles or so until the seals wear in.

The foamy/milky dipstick hasn't hit me yet this year, but I had it when the weather turned really cold last year and I only drove it to work and back. A nice long highway drive cleared it up last year... it's just a combo of cold temps, condensation and short trips that don't let the engine get and stay at operating temp for a while.

To sort things out a bit, it seems like there several different topics that keep getting intertwined to no particular purpose:

First, it seems that there is some history of RX8s getting nowhere near the stated mileage. It seems to me that this problem was largely addressed by reprogramming the PCM. Since the problem wasn't there when EPA did their milage ratings, it seems like there was a bug in the J or K or whatever version the RX8 was originally shipped with. If there is another prblem, it seems to be assocated with cars sold in 2003.

Second, the EPA mileage ratings are standardized. This means they assume that the RX8 will be driven like a minvan. Therefore, if you drive your RX8 like a minivan, you should expect to get EPA mileage ratings. If you don't, then you won't.

Third, the RX8 gets very good gas mileage relative to other new model rotary powered sports cars on the market. In fact, it is the best. It is also the worst. If my wife's Honda hybrid is sitting in the garage, and I am going into city traffic, I take that because I'm not going to have enough fun to justify the expense of the extra gas.

Not all true...I had an 8 purchased in late '03 that I stayed on the dealership about the poor mileage and I made sure to rush out and get the latest ECU updates in order to hopefully increase the mileage. My AT would get 13-14 no matter how I drove it. The best it ever got was on a long highway trip and it topped out at 21...unfortunately I never saw that again. After less than a year of ownership, I traded for a Z. The 8 was my first experience with a Mazda and probably my last.

Like others have stated, I know mileage is determined by EPA but when Mazda touts the Renesis as the best mileage rotary they have ever had...it makes for some unhappy owners expecially when you get little more than and form letter from Mazda when discussing the issue or you get blown off by the dealership... "Must be the way you drive" or "try a different type of gas".

You know, I really wanted to love my 8, but between the mileage issue and some other problems, I ended up really hating it...thus the trade. It's great that the majority of drivers get near or at posted EPA numbers, but there is a large enough group of owners that don't that should not be discounted by Mazda or those that do get the numbers. To be completely honest, I am surprised that we have not seen class-action against Mazda on the problem (even thought numbers are from EPA -- for those ready to jump in saying it's not Mazda's fault).

What mileage are you getting with your Z? And are you getting feathering on the front tires?

I don't think anyone is directly whining here. If the car had more high end performance I don't think people would care about the gas mileage, but this still is a low performance vehicle that slowly gets to 150mph over a extremely long stretch road. I should know I have already done so in Montana. The other points identified about staling is a perfect example of the poor workmanship. When I got my vehicle and it was discovered the battery took a dive I found four other people that had the same problem shortly after they bought the vehicle. Yes, its covered by warranty, but who wants to spend the time watching their vehicle in a shop when they could be driving it.

As for the tires, it is unknown to the average and not highly technical folks who buy the car that in the snow it will only move one inch. That 50,60, or 70 year old bought the vehicle for fun although I am sure several of them regretted the purchase after trying to get out.

The look of the vehicle is excellent and people always turn their heads when one drives by, but even the older porches got better gas mileage than this car. I know because I have a neighbor down the street who rebuilt one.

If I bought a Corvette I would expect poor gas mileage, and also know that 400 hp is right in front of me. This 240 or so hp with a joke of torque is nothing to brag about. Sure you can keep up with some of the BMWs, but getting to those speeds takes a heck of a lot of effort compared to the other high performance vehicles.

I declare that the gas mileage is a false advertisement of its true capability. Since that is suppose to be an average rating they need to reduce it by 4. I drive conservative some days and agressive the others. I get about the same gas mileage either way. Going 200 miles on a tank in the city is a joke, but worse getting 15-16 on the hwy is down right wrong.

So, while some of us complain about the gas mileage you should be glad, because if enough voices speak future versions of your "car" will be enhanced. As I mentioned the next car will be different for me, but in the meantime I will use, abuse, and hopefully run it into the ground once I am done.

What mileage are you getting with your Z? And are you getting feathering on the front tires?

I am getting 20 around town and have hit 28 on a trip to the beach. As for the tires, no problems so far. I have 5,000 miles and can honestly say that I have not had any problems with the car (which is much more than I can say for the 8).

Not really here to trash the 8, just presenting my experience. I really wanted to like the car, but I just did not have a very good ownership experience with the vehicle or the dealership.

I don't think anyone is directly whining here. If the car had more high end performance I don't think people would care about the gas mileage, but this still is a low performance vehicle that slowly gets to 150mph over a extremely long stretch road. I should know I have already done so in Montana.

The RX8 is 'low performance'?? it's not the fastest car, but it's far from being in the bottom tier of performance. And just how many cars get to 150mph faster? That cost the same or less? not many. I'm not even going to ask what the point of getting to 150mph super fast is for. Do you have an automatic by any chance?


The other points identified about staling is a perfect example of the poor workmanship. When I got my vehicle and it was discovered the battery took a dive I found four other people that had the same problem shortly after they bought the vehicle. Yes, its covered by warranty, but who wants to spend the time watching their vehicle in a shop when they could be driving it.


I assume by "staling" you mean stalling... which I don't know of anybody who has had their 8 simply stall on them. How is a bad battery poor workmanship? Are there Mazda engineers assembling them in Hiroshima right now? I didn't think so.


As for the tires, it is unknown to the average and not highly technical folks who buy the car that in the snow it will only move one inch. That 50,60, or 70 year old bought the vehicle for fun although I am sure several of them regretted the purchase after trying to get out.

Yeah, they're called ultra high performance summer tires... not a real technical issue. Pretty much standard issue on sports and performance cars... not a Mazda issue. Why would Mazda outfit a car with incredible handling with all season tires?


If I bought a Corvette I would expect poor gas mileage, and also know that 400 hp is right in front of me. This 240 or so hp with a joke of torque is nothing to brag about. Sure you can keep up with some of the BMWs, but getting to those speeds takes a heck of a lot of effort compared to the other high performance vehicles.

Again... at what price range are you comparing vehicles? If it has such a joke for torque, why did you ever buy it?

As for the tires, it is unknown to the average and not highly technical folks who buy the car that in the snow it will only move one inch. That 50,60, or 70 year old bought the vehicle for fun although I am sure several of them regretted the purchase after trying to get out.

I am not sure I understand this comment. Is this some type of age discrimination issue?