2011 Mazda RX-8

WE’VE BEEN BUILDING UP TO THIS KIND OF PURE, SPORTS-CAR PERFORMANCE FOR 40 YEARS.

Imagine a sports car so advanced that it has no cylinders. No pistons. No valves. And no equal. A quick check under Mazda RX-8’s sleek aluminum hood instantly validates its innovative credentials. Its race-proven, state-of-the-art RENESIS rotary engine boasts just three major moving parts. As well as an outrageously broad powerband. Plus the rare ability to responsively spool out power with turbine-like smoothness all the way up to its stratospheric 9,000-rpm redline.* Fact is, RX-8’s free-revving performance is the culmination of four decades of exhaustive research, development and racing. Reflecting refinements gleaned from designing over 80 different rotary engine configurations for both the street and the track. And benefiting from all Mazda has learned from building nearly two million rotary-powered passenger vehicles – including a hydrogen-powered RX-8. Three generations of the legendary Mazda RX-7. And, of course, the first and only Japanese car to win the gruelling 24 Hours of Le Mans – the rotary-powered Mazda 787B.

This year, RX-8’s iconic good looks and razor-sharp driving dynamics receive impressive new refinements in the form of the first-ever Mazda RX-8 R3 (Pictured above). Enhancing its seductive silhouette are a unique front fascia, sleek side sill extensions and a rear wing spoiler. Stronger, lighter 19-inch forged alloy wheels – surrounded by aggressive 225/40R19 rubber – enhance appearance and grip. A sport-tuned suspension and genuine Bilstein® shock absorbers add exclamation points to RX-8’s already legendary handling. A pair of RECARO® bucket seats, designed exclusively for RX-8 and featuring leather side bolsters, hold both driver and front passenger firmly in place. While an intelligent key system with keyless entry and start, built-in Bluetooth® hands-free phone capability plus a Bose® 300-watt, nine-speaker audio system with Centerpoint® Surround Sound System dial up the functionality and fun. So slide behind the wheel of an RX-8 R3. Drop it into gear. And savour the challenge of a serpentine stretch of road that would quickly humble a lesser machine.

*Automatic transmission redlines at 7,500 rpm.