I was reading somewhere that you don't actually even have to use a key on the 06, just that if the key/remote are within a certain distance from the ignition that it starts. Has anyone else heard anything about this?

 

yes, it is already available on other 2006 Mazda cars on sale right now...

 

it's not a remote start though, you still have to turn a switch on the steering column to start the car.

 

I was aware of that that part as it was explained to me, I just hadn't heard that it came that way.

 

So I could find the outer range and hop back and forth into and out of range and this would start and shut down my engine w/o touching anything? Sounds like a great way to flood an engine

 

I believe it is keyless entry and keyless start. But you still have to open the door and turn the car on and ignition and such. Reminds me of my friends G35 sedan. Instead of ever taking out the keys, the part that needs a key instead is just a turning switch.

 

I was just reading the press release for the RX-8 in Australia and, according to them, the only 8 that comes with that key system is the special edition 8, also known as Revelation in Australia. It wasn't listed as a new feature for the regular 8s. So, who knows. Another one of those wait and see things.

 

the keyless start will be available in GT package for US RX-8's.

 

I believe it's the exact same system they're using in the MX-5.

Trip to the dealer to check it out?