Final hurrah for Mazda RX-8

Mazda’s individualistic RX-8 is approaching the end of the line – production ends in mid-2012 – and its maker is giving the rotary-powered four-door coupe a fitting send-off by rolling out a Spirit R special edition, of which just 1000 units will be built.

The Japan-only limited-run model, which goes on sale in domestic dealerships from November 24, is based on the on the RX-8 Type RS (with six-speed manual transmission) and Type E (with six-speed auto).

The Spirit R moniker was previously used on the final limited-edition RX-7, but you’ll be disappointed if you were expecting hardcore performance upgrades, as this low-run special is more about cosmetic tweaks.

The manual-transmission Spirit R is distinguishable by its bronze-coloured 19-inch alloys shod with 225/40R19 rubber, while the auto model rides on gunmetal-hued 18-inch alloys wrapped in 225/45R18 tyres. The slusher also gets sports suspension and larger brakes.

Other visual clues that identify the Spirit R include unique badging, red brake calipers, and black bezels on the headlights, fog lights and taillights.

Inside, you’ll find Recaro leather seats, while the auto model also sports piano-black trim on the transmission tunnel trim and leather with red stitching on the steering wheel and handbrake lever.

The Spirit R will be offered in a choice of three colours – Aluminium Metallic, Sparkling Black Mica and Crystal White Pearl Mica.

Although production of the existing RX-8 is ending, Mazda board member Takashi Yamanouchi says the rotary engine will live on.

“Mazda’s iconic rotary engine recorded its famous victory in the Le Mans 24-Hour endurance race 20 years ago,” Yamanouchi said.

“Throughout 2011, we have been celebrating the 20th anniversary of that victory by demonstrating the winning 787B racecar at Le Mans’ Circuit de La Sarthe and various other events around the world.

“At each one, the screaming rotary engine and the sight of the 787B have enthralled everyone from young children to race fans who witnessed its victory in 1991.

“These events have been a powerful reminder of the widespread passion for the rotary engine. Although RX-8 production is ending, the rotary engine will always represent the spirit of Mazda and Mazda remains committed to its ongoing development.”

Mazda Australia public relations manager Steve MacIver has confirmed Mazda will cease production of the RX-8 in June of next year, but has said that supply in the short to medium term is secure.

MacIver also said that while the final edition RX-8 is something they’re working closely with Hiroshima on, a concrete decision is still some months away.

As for a replacement for the long-running rotary favourite, mum’s the word. But MacIver said a rotary-powered coupe is still a hot favourite.

“There’s nothing in the pipeline yet [in terms of a replacement for the RX-8], but our engineers are hard at work on a next generation rotary which we’re continuing development on,” MacIver clarified.

With Tokyo Motor Show just around the corner, Mazda fans will be keeping their fingers crossed a new rotary-powered concept will be revealed. Production timing, however, is anyone’s guess.

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