The Upgraded Mazda RX-8
Published: 13th January 2008
Mazda RX-8 R3
Mazda’s second world premiere at the NAIAS in Detroit on the 13th January 2008 will mark the further evolution of the rotory-engined Mazda RX-8 four-door, four-seater sports coupe, giving it a refreshed exterior and interior design, enhanced performance and the option of a new sport package for the ultimate driving enthusiast.
The core of the hugely-popular Mazda RX-8 is unchanged – it remains a high-powered, lightweight and perfectly balanced machine powered by the world-renowned twin-rotor RENESIS rotary engine.
“Dating back to the Cosmo Sport released in 1967, every sports car ever developed by Mazda has had the same fundamental mission – to provide car lovers with a vehicle that’s fun-to-drive, exciting to look at and easy to own,” commented Tetsu Nakazawa, Mazda North American Operations’ RX-8 vehicle line manager.
“The new RX-8 embodies that mission and moves it forwards, conveying the unique and distinctive Mazda brand DNA to the fullest.”
To enhance the highly successful RX-8, Mazda engineers focused on innovation in three key areas for the updated RX-8 – styling, performance and packaging. “The enhancements made to RX-8’s exterior, interior, packaging and performance take it to a whole new level of visual and driving excitement,” remarked Nakazawa.
Refreshed Design Cues provide ‘High-Quality Dynamism’
RX-8 was designed with an athletically sculpted exterior that provides a sense of originality that’s unrivalled in the marketplace today. The new RX-8 receives design enhancements that freshen the styling and give it a new look, without impairing the basic design theme.
Refinements for the new model include restyled front and rear bumpers and front fascia; sporty, high quality finish front headlamps and twin circular LED rear lamps; and larger diameter (90mm) exhaust pipes. Updates extend to a new five-spoke wheel design, increasing in diameter to 19" and featuring a symbolic and sporty design reminiscent of the rotary engine.
Taut muscular lines give Mazda RX-8 the liberating look of an athlete in motion. The muscular styling maintains classic sports car proportions while adding a Zoom-Zoom edge that is unmistakably Mazda.
The RX-8’s unique ‘freestyle’ four-door design is proof that a true sports car does not need to sacrifice space or practicality for performance. The advanced design of the rear-hinged rear doors provides a large door opening, allowing adult-sized passengers to easily enter and exit the vehicle. With a spacious cabin that provides ample passenger room for four full-size adults, and enough trunk space for a weekend’s worth of luggage, this sports car proves its versatility.
