Redesigned Mazda RX-8 coming to Frankfurt? Not likely.
by Damon Lavrinc on Jul 24th 2009 at 2:28PM 
Mazda RX-8 R3 - Click above for a high-res image gallery
Several reports have surfaced over the past day indicating that Mazda is prepping a thoroughly redesigned RX-8 for display at the Frankfurt Motor Show this September. However, according to Mazda USA's director of communications, Jeremy Barnes, the next rotary-powered coupe won't debut for at least a few more years.
Since Mazda just released the facelifted RX-8 last year, a full-scale overhaul seems a bit hasty, particularly considering the four-door coupe's niche status. If something does arrive in Frankfurt, it's likely a region-specific model, packing some additional features (new Recaro seats and infotainment package, say) akin to the recently released R3.
As for the next RX-series from Mazda, the automaker is hard at work on the all-new 16X rotary engine, and in that case, a revised Wankel rotary is expected to power the updated model, which is not expected until around 2011 or 2012.
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Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
Dinof 2:56PM (7/24/2009)
The thing is that Auto motor und sport announced a facelift version of rx-8.But in germany the current version on sale of rx-8 is that pre-facelift.In usa for example is that post facelift..
So everyone hurry to use that news...but WRONG!!
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xtasi 3:30PM (7/24/2009)
The RX-8 chassis is superb, with great balance, awesome grip... that is saddled by a wimpy engine... it needs more cojones. Where is the turbo to bring torque up?
Looks like the next gen engine will help that along.
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tankd0g 3:48PM (7/24/2009)
Put the DI 4 banger turbo in this thing and call it a day.
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Aloysius Vampa 3:57PM (7/24/2009)
Everyone says "But it'll screw up the amazing balance."
Yeah, but it would still be great to drive!
Nateb123 5:05PM (7/24/2009)
Realize that the middle of the engine is where the crankshaft of that 4 cyl would be and you get an idea of how obscenely high the weight of the engine would be. Nothing you could do to a chassis could compensate for that and still have it remain the same car. You would have to raise the entire greenhouse just so you could see out the windshield over the damn thing. It gets very complicated very fast. Get a miata and call it a day if that's what you want in a car.
cloudstrifemfx 5:04PM (7/24/2009)
It's illogical to get one as a college student.. But be damned if I don't want one still.
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Kaveh 5:21PM (7/24/2009)
It's so under powered for that chassis. That body is crying for a 300 hp engine.
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Jeff 5:35PM (7/24/2009)
At 18 MPG combined, it qualifies for the Cash-for-Clunkers program!
I have the 2004 model and I never got better than 16 MPG combined from its pathetically weak engine.
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Kitko 5:40PM (7/24/2009)
Learn to drive.
P.V. 6:51PM (7/24/2009)
To be fair, the fuel economy ratings for that small engine (regardless of its given power output) are pretty bad.
Protzenegger 7:15PM (7/25/2009)
I'm with Kitko here. I get over 20 mpg on mine consistently.
elpapi32822 10:33AM (7/25/2009)
This whole thing about small engine in heavier bigger cars don't work. It's not the rotary engine that eats up fuel like crazy, is the size of the engine and the size of the car. In my old Rx7 rotary with the 12A engine I was getting about over 30mpg combined before I sold it, but then again the weight of the car wasn't significant. Mazda put the wrong size of engine in this car, Mazda should of just put a 4 liter turbo or a V6 and should it called the MX6. This car is a disgrace for the RX names, is just to slow for the price and at the same time a gas guzzler. I just hope Mazda makes one better.
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My_SS_RX8 1:35PM (7/25/2009)
The RX 8 is much closer in comparison with the Lexus IS250 or the BMW 128i than the older RX 7. All three are fun sporty coupes with better than average handling and enough creature comforts so you aren't beat up after a 900 mile high speed days traveling, which is how my RX8 GT has sometimes been driven. The RX8 has more HP than either the Lexus IS 250 or BMW 128i, so at similar prices that is less an issue than people make of it. The RX8 listed mpg is lower but all 3 require premium fuel, though the Lexus and BMW have more torque.
In town driving the RX8 doesn't get good mileage, but on long trips of hundreds of freeway miles i've averaged an easy 28/29 mpg. A lot of people don't believe that, but i've proven it to myself time after time on trips of 3000/4000 miles.
The people who don't like the RX8 won't like the Lexus IS250 or BMW128i either, those people should just go ahead and get the Mustang they can afford, a car they and especially their friends will understand and appreciate more.
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T2 Vert 2:28PM (7/25/2009)
2011 or 2012 for an RX-7 successor? That's fine Mazda! Take your time, I've been waiting since 95 when the FD was last seen here. As long as it has 2 doors, 2 seats, and around $30K, I've got a deposit lined up for the purchase. Until then, I'll just keep throwing money at my T2 Vert, and daily drive my Honda. The 16X better have around 300hp though! Long live the Rotary!
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Protzenegger 7:17PM (7/25/2009)
Hell, I'm waiting for an RX-9. Bring on a new suicide-coupe!