Mazda RX-8 Model Years and History

The RX-8 gets but one change for 2011-- Aurora Blue Mica paint has been dropped from the R3 trim.

After a thorough freshening for 2009, the RX-8 gets very few changes in 2010. The Touring model was dropped in favor of two trim levels, Sport and Grand Touring. The R3 model is new, and aimed at the enthusiast driver. The design changes of last year remain, but new 10-spoke wheels with a rotary engine motif are available. One new paint color was added, Liquid Silver.

For 2009, Mazda's RX-8 gets a restyling that is more "evolution" than "revolution." The front fascia has been updated, with a deeper grille and more aggressive headlights, while the back end features larger exhaust pipes. Inside, the RX-8 gets new seats as well as a revised center console. Inside, the steering wheel and instrument cluster have been revamped and the tachometer features a "variable red zone," which gets higher as the high-revving Wankel rotary engine warms up to optimal temperature. Other mechanical changes include a revised gear ratio for sportier acceleration, a stiffer front end and revised rear suspension geometry. Fuel tank capacity has increased to 17 gallons. Sport models get 18-inch wheels and larger front disc brakes. Touring models now incorporate the Performance Package, while adding auto-dimming mirrors, Homelink, and 6-disc CD stereo. Grand Touring cars gain automatic climate control, Bluetooth, rain-sensing wipers, and three-position seat memory. A new R3 Sport Package positioned above Grand Touring adds a stiffer suspension with Bilstein shocks, 19-inch aluminum wheels, more supportive Recaro front seats, premium Bose stereo, Bluetooth hands-free phone access and rear spoiler. Last year's 40th Anniversary model has been dropped.

For 2008, Mazda offers a special-edition 40th Anniversary RX-8 to celebrate the company's 40th year of employing rotary technology in its passenger cars. The car comes only in Metropolitan Gray with Cosmo Red leather interior, and has a stiffer suspension, special 18-inch wheels, blue tinted fog lamps, a silver engine cover, and unique badging. Sport, Touring, and Grand Touring trim levels are still offered, and all base prices remain static. The DVD navigation system will only be offered in the Grand Touring model.

Changes are minor for the Mazda RX-8's fifth year of production; most notable is a six-disc in-dash CD changer that is now standard on the Touring and Grand Touring trim levels. The "Shinka" special edition trim level has been discontinued for 2007.