Mazda's RX-8 is getting a makeover for the 2009 model year, with the automaker focusing on the four seat sports coupe's exterior style, interior updates and performance upgrades highlighted by a new R3 sport package. The RX-8's 1.3-liter Renesis rotary engine has been tuned slightly and will come in two flavors, a 232 horsepower version mated to a six-speed manual transmission, or a 212 horsepower version with a six-speed automatic with steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters. The gear ratio on the manual-equipped cars has been lowered to help improve off-the-line acceleration and the engine revs to 9000 rpm (7500 rpm for the auto-equipped cars). Sheetmetal changes include revised front fascia and front and rear bumpers, new lighting and larger exhaust pipes. New five-spoke rims in different flavors depending on wheel size were designed with the rotary's shape in mind. The cabin has been slightly revised, with an updated center stack, and a tachometer that varies the redline zone as the as engine temperature rises. A new steering wheel and redesigned seats are also part of the update, and the gauge lighting has also been reworked.

Mazda has also created an enthusiast package for the RX-9 called R3, the designation being shout out of sorts to the automaker's R1 and R2 packages offered on the third-generation RX-7. The R3 variant features upgraded suspension bits including Bilstein shocks and front suspension crossmembers shot full of urethane foam to help smooth out and quiet the ride. Visually, the package features a rear spoiler, side sills, fog lamps and 19-inch aluminum wheels with performance rubber. The package also features an upgraded Bose sound system, Bluetooth, and front Recaro seats. Other packages include Sport, Touring and Grand Touring, with various upgrades available as you step up the trim ladder.

2009 mazda rx-8

2009 mazda rx-8

2009 mazda rx-8

2009 mazda rx-8