Young working male's view: Buy the manual transmission. The automatic just isn't the same car. Also, consider the optional DVD global position system. It is easy to master, has a screen that can be tilted to avoid glare, and makes the Mazda just that much more useful. Also you must get the $1000 plus option package that includes traction control, stability control, excellent xenon headlamps, and fog lamps.
The front seats are comfortable, but the steering wheel could have used a telescoping feature. You sit low, but not like in a Corvette or Z car, and even in wet weather you never feel like larger vehicles are intimidating you. As for driving, I would much rather operate this Mazda than any other sports car for two reasons. First, it is not that demanding. Secondly, it does everything well including being able to take my friends along. Other sports cars might be faster, but they aren't any more fun and either cost more or offer less room. With this RX you get more for less. And, forget the yellow paint color. Black is meant for this Mazda.
Family conference: We loved the Mazda RX-8 and believe our ranking of it as the second best vehicle this year behind the Toyota Prius is well earned. It is an endearing vehicle. We can't wait for the Mazda speed merchants to apply some turbocharging to the rotary engine and create one of the fastest four passenger cars in the world. In the meantime, you can't beat what you get for the price.
