The Mazda RX-8 SPIRIT R four-door sedan model is built upon the existing RX-8 Type E and Type RS models. The two models differ in their mode of transmission with Type E model using electronically-controlled six-speed automatic transmission whereas the Type RS model comes with six-speed manual transmission. The name “SPIRIT R” is derived from the previous limited edition model the Mazda RX-7. The SPIRIT R boasts colored alloy wheels and high-class bucket seats from RECARO. Some other features which are optional on current models of Mazda like curtain and front side SRS safety airbag system will be customary in the new model.
Mazda RX-8 SPIRIT R is scheduled to be released at all Mazda dealerships through Japan on November 24 of this year. According to Mazda, SPIRIT R is supposed to a special edition model and probably 1000 units will be produced. The production for Mazda RX-8 will conclude by June 2012. The SPIRIT R with manual transmission and Type G models with six-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission will be offered by Mazda as a part of the RX-8 series.
The RX-8 SPIRIT R will be available in three exterior body colors, Aluminum Metallic, Sparkling Black Mica and Crystal White Pearl Mica. It also sports 19 inch bronze colored alloy wheels with red brake calipers. Front headlight, rear combination lights and the fog lights have been provided with stylish black bezels. The RX-8 comes with a high-performance 1.3-liter, twin-rotor rotary engine that gives an output of 232-hp.
Takashi Yamanaouchi, CEO of Mazda, said that despite the termination of RX-8 series, last rotary engine equipped sports car, the development of the rotary engine will be continued by Mazda as it characterizes the essence of Mazda. It has been hinted that the RX-8 lineup will be replaced by the Mazda Shinari concept car in the coming years.
Sources:
http://autoeuropecar.com/mazda/mazda-rx-8-spirit-r-revelead-at-japan.html
Mazda RX-8 Spirit R Signals End Of Rotary Engine, 1,000 To Be Made
http://carguideblog.com/9131/mazda-shinari-concept-replace-rx8/
