In addition to the installation of four butt receptacles and four doors, Mazda has ensured that the cabin of their rotary powered sports car meets the threshold
 |
| Not only easily accessible, the interior of Mazda's top of the line sports car meets the threshold set by more expensive offerings. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press) |
set by more expensive offerings. Interior fit and finish is first-rate and all surface materials are pleasing to the touch - except for the shiny black plastic trim inserts adorning the center stack and each door panel. Some may find these kernels of cheapness attractive, I didn't; but that's not to say that there wasn't much to like about the design, layout and functionality of the RX8 interior - because there was. Take for instance the two large dials controlling the fan speed and temperature setting for the heat, ventilation and air conditioning system. These fixtures look great and functioned even better - how refreshing to not deal with an array of confusing buttons. Situated directly ahead of the driver is a large analog tachometer. Additionally, positioned within the dial area of the tach is a large digital speed readout. With
 |
| The clean and simple layout of the RX8's controls are a welcome change from the usual array of confusing buttons. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press) |
a quick glance at a single location the driver is informed of the two most critical variables: vehicle speed and engine revs. The Bose audio system Mazda wired into the RX8 delivers excellent sound quality, although nowhere near the best I have heard from Bose. Laudably though, six CDs can be inserted into the dash. The steering wheel features audio controls on one side and cruise controls on the other, minimizing the need to steer single handedly or divert attention from the roadway. Mazda has a knack for creating ergonomically correct steering wheels that perfectly fit the hand - well at least my flipper. That knack extends to seating as well. My tester was equipped with the upgraded 8-way adjustable leather trimmed power driver's seat. It and the front passenger seat were heated as well. With their substantial support and generous side bolstering my entire body remained firmly affixed regardless of the forces of physics my driving thrust upon it.
