The 2010 Mazda RX8 is available in three separate trim levels: the Sport, the Grand Touring and also the R3. All trims are 4-door coupes that have been designed with a nearly even split between front and rear weight distribution. Speaking of weight, the RX8 takes it easy on the scales with a curb measurement of 3064 pounds (3818 gross vehicular weight) on all models. It is a stylistically aggressive, genuine sports car that holds a lot of surprises.

The 2010 RX8 from Mazda delivers hair raising performance with its lightweight and high-revving 1.3L rotary engine that generates 232 horses at 8500 RPM and 159 lb-ft of twisting torque at 5500. All trims are rear wheel driven by a 6-speed/OD manual stock transmission. Purchasers who opt for the 6-speed OD automatic gearbox with paddle shifters on the steering wheel will experience a 20 horsepower decrease in power output. The RX8 has been estimated by the EPA to deliver 16/22 miles per gallon of fuel spent in the cities/highways respectively. With its 16.9 gallon fuel tank, you will travel over 300 miles between fuel stops.

Four adults can ride inside of the Mazda RX8 for 2010 with plenty of room. 38 inches of frontal headroom (37 in the rear), 55 inches of shoulder room in the front and rear, 53 inches of frontal hip room (48 in the rear) and 42.7 inches of frontal legroom (32.2 in the rear) abound. And you will find 7.6 cubic feet of luggage space in the trunk.

Entry and exit doors for rear passengers are considerably smaller than the front doors and feature a Freestyle design. The result is far more convenient access to the rear seats than in similar vehicles with only two doors. A list of stock safety features for the Mazda RX8 includes front, side and side curtain airbags; 4-wheel ABS braking, electronic traction and stability control systems and an electronically controlled system for tire pressure observance. And on the Grand Touring RX8, you will be treated to a standard powered moonroof and satellite radio.

With suggested pricing ranging between $26,495 and $31,990, the 2010 RX8 sees its competition from the likes of the Ford Mustang, Hyundai Genesis Coupe and the Mitsubishi Eclipse. This is no Miata; it is a full-sized coupe with a 175.6 inch length. Width and height measurements are 69.7 inches 52.8 inches respectively. All trims clear the ground by just 4.7 inches and ride on a wheelbase of 106.4 inches. The minimum turning radius required is 17.4 feet.

The 2010 Mazda RX8 is a fuel efficient, spacious coupe that looks ready for action - and actually performs quite well. Although it probably would not win a race against several of its competitors, it certainly does provide dependable, sporty and visually appealing transportation. Remember that Mazda has been helping to set standards in automotive racing circuits for more than 40 years now. Treat yourself to a test drive of the new RX8 and experience those decades of learning personally.