Performance figures for the RX-8 R3 are impressive with a maximum power output of 228bhp (231ps) at 7500rpm and 155lb/ft of torque (211Nm) at 5500rpm.  A fettled six speed manual gearbox with shorter gearing through gears 1 to 5 and a longer 6th gear for cruising will see the R3 will reach 62mph in just 6.4 seconds and go on to a top speed of 146mph.

Mazda have taken steps to improve the reliability by incorporating an improved and relocated oil pump, larger oil cooler and increased oil capacity.  Also included is a “Red Zone” feature which limits the revs when the engine is cold to protect the engine from over enthusiastic owners.  Once warm the limit is removed and full use of the 9000rpm rev band is available.

On sale from late August, the new Mazda RX-8 R3 will have an on the road price of £24,995.

Speculation

There had previously been speculation of an RX-8 redesign based on one of the recent Mazda concepts called Nagare, recent information suggests the new RX-7 will be based on the Taiki concept (See gallery) and will be powered by Mazda’s new Renesis rotary engine codenamed 16X. Looking at the futuristic Taiki concept I doubt there is much that will remain of the trimaran rear end with its enclosed wheels. The front end also looks a little too “retro muscle car”, but I can see where the general idea is. In my opinion the Mazda Ryuga Concept is possibly the closest to what I’d imagine a concept RX-7 looking like.

Power

The RX-7′s 16X Renesis rotary engine will be a two rotor 1.6 liter (rotary engines have recently only been 1.3 litres) with direct injection and a turbo charger to produce in excess of 250bhp. Mazda claim the increase in displacement will deliver more torque and improved fuel economy with lower emissions. The engine itself is lighter and physically smaller than the current 1.3 liter Renesis engine despite it having more displacement.

Opinion

I’m looking forward to this one, I’m also glad that Mazda are hanging in there with the rotary engine. The RX-7 has used a rotary engine since its first appearance way back in 1978. I’m not sure how Mazda plan to market the RX-7 alongside the RX-8 which is set to continue, aside from the fact that the RX-7 is expected to be smaller and lighter. Both are four seaters in a 2+2 arrangement, i.e. two adults and two children (or insanely short adults), time will tell how Mazda plans to market these. So long as the new RX-7′s design doesn’t suck I can see it being very popular, in fact, I’d probably buy one.

Gallery