Mazda Offers Upgraded RX-8 in Japan

Mazda Motor Corp. commences sales of an upgraded version of its RX-8 sports car in Japan.

Deliveries of the 5- and 6-speed manual versions of the new RX-8 now are under way. Orders for a 6-speed automatic-equipped RX-8 are being accepted.

Upgrades include a 6-port design of the RX-8’s famed rotary engine, two more ports than the original model. The extra ports result in improved intake efficiency, Mazda says.

The 6-speed automatic RX-8 also gets a new Active Adaptive Shift control, which the auto maker says “raises the ride quality and enjoyment of driving a sports car.”

Type S and Type E models get the new “Sand Beige Leather Package,” which features two new body colors: Stormy Blue Mica and Crystal White Pearl Mica.

Mazda does not say whether the upgraded RX-8 eventually will be offered in North America.