Mazda RX-8 R3

If there’s one thing you can guarantee about our annual Performance Car of the Year bonanza, it’s that one model will surprise everyone – and this year it was the Mazda RX-8.

We’ve always been fans, but even we were not prepared for the latest R3 to be quite so accomplished around the undulating Anglesey circuit. Perfect 50:50 weight distribution ensures supreme balance, while precise steering and excellent traction help raise the grin factor.

In damp conditions the rear-wheel-drive chassis is predictable and progressive, yet in the dry we found the immense grip made it hard to unsettle the back tyres. Against the stopwatch the Mazda was outpaced by 16 of its rivals here, but this is proof that track-based fun isn’t all about speed. In terms of pure chassis balance and driving enjoyment, you will need to look towards the top finishers to find something more rewarding. The firm’s engineers have also managed to eradicate the clunky transmission feel that was a hallmark of previous models, so it’s smoother to drive on the road, too. The distinctive rotary motor is still thirsty and requires regular oil top-ups, while the car’s familiar looks do it no favours in the desirability stakes. But as a pure driver’s machine the RX-8 proves you don’t need a billionaire’s budget to own one of the very best.

CLICK HERE FOR AN EXCLUSIVE ON BOARD HOT-LAP IN THE NAZDA RX-8 R3