Mazda launches updated RX-8 range | Coupes

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Mazda launches updated RX-8 range

Written by Viknesh Vijayenthiran

Wednesday, 02 July 2008

Mazda RX-8 facelift Luxury Mazda has revealed final pricing and specifications for the face-lifted version of its unique RX-8 sports car, which goes on sale this month and sees the introduction of several new models including a performance oriented GT flagship.

The rest of the range is rounded out by the new Base and Luxury models, with all cars receiving refreshed exterior and interior designs, enhanced performance and updated transmissions.

Launched in 2003, the Mazda RX-8 hit the global market with a bang and drew plenty of attention with its unique rotary powerplant and innovative suicide-style rear doors. The car went on to sell more than 170,000 units worldwide, but with strong competitors like the Volkswagen R32 and the new Impreza WRX STI plus Mitsubishi’s upcoming Lancer Evolution X on the horizon the RX-8 was in serious need of an upgrade.

Debut of new six-speed automatic
New to the line-up is a six-speed automatic transmission dubbed Activematic, which replaces the current model’s aging four-speed auto. A six-speed manual, based on the MX-5’s slick-shifting unit will also be offered, though the RX-8’s Renesis rotary powerplant means Mazda has replaced the ratios of gears 1,2,3,4 and 6 with formulas unique to the RX-8.

Other refinements for the new model include restyled front and rear bumpers, new headlamps, twin circular LED rear lamps, and larger 90mm diameter exhaust pipes. Four more litres of fuel in the tank extend the car’s touring range for fewer stops.

Power remains unchanged
Both the STI and Evolution X pump out more than 200kW from their high-pressure boosted engines, but output from Mazda’s high-revving twin-rotor Renesis remains unchanged at 177kW and 211Nm in the manual models. Luxury trim cars that opt for the Activematic six-speed auto gearbox will be limited to 158kW at 7,500rpm, though that number is up 17kW over the previous four-speed automatic. Torque, however, for the automatic drops by 9Nm to match the manual transmission’s figures at 211Nm.

Instead of building in more power, engineers focused on improving the handling aspects of the car. Changes include improved body rigidity through the addition of structural reinforcements on the suspension towers and new rear suspension geometry designed for better handling performance and lower noise and vibration levels.

In addition, the differential gear ratio is lowered for improved off-the-line performance. These changes give the RX-8 increased acceleration and performance, as well as even greater responsiveness to the accelerator pedal. A marginally lower coefficient of drag - down to 0.30 from 0.31 - means the car slips through the air just a bit easier as well.

Up-spec GT model added to lineup
One major introduction is the launch of a new top-end GT model complete with a specially tuned sports suspension system, light-weight 19-inch alloys and a custom interior with sports bucket seats. The Base and Luxury models use the standard specification suspension system found on current RX-8s.

In the Luxury model, a sunroof Bose sound system, leather upholstery and accents and other minor interior upgrades make for a more complete and, aptly, luxurious experience.