The New Mazda RX-8 R3

The new generation RX-8 R3 unveiled earlier this year will hit British showrooms in late August, but there are no options available on the car.

It comes in at �24,995 with a very comprehensive standard equipment list including over a dozen items of equipment not previously available on an RX-8.

In addition to the Sports Styling Pack, larger 19-inch diameter alloy wheels and Recaro front seats, every R3 comes with 12 new items such as cruise control, automatic light-sensing Xenon headlamps, automatic rain-sensing wipers, an integrated Bluetooth system and special R3-badged carpet mats.

Buyers will also enjoy the new BOSE premium audio system with Centerpoint surround sound, AudioPilot noise compensation technology exclusively designed for R3 with an eight-channel digital amplifier. A 6-CD autochanger, nine speakers and an AUX auxiliary jack for connecting an MP3 player, complete the audio system.

Externally, the new RX-8 has standard-fit Sports Styling Pack comprises a sport front bumper, side skirts and rear wing all finished in body colour.

The new model�s front wings no longer feature the air-extractor vents behind the wheel arches and accommodate the turn-repeater light instead.

The more aggressive appearance created by the revised styling is complimented by the all-new larger diameter 19-inch alloy wheels with ultra-low profile 40 section tyres. These extra-light wheels have five �rotor-shaped� spokes and are finished in dark titanium.

Under this new stylish skin sits a significantly improved 231ps 1.3-litre retuned engine with sharper responses and better lubrication to improve driving pleasure and ownership, reworked chassis incorporating Bilstein absorbers, front wishbones with rear multi-links, and modified brakes and steering.

The redesigned stiffer chassis promotes better handling and greater comfort and the front-midship engine, rear-wheel drive configuration of the original, delivers an ideal 50/50 weight distribution.

The now familiar four door coupe body with its distinctive rear hinged �suicide� back doors is really a two-plus-two with a small boot.

�New Mazda RX-8 R3 is the ultimate expression of Mazda�s brand DNA, demonstrating our determination to do things differently,� said Mark Cameron, Mazda UK Marketing Director.

�The R3 delivers an even more focused and even more sporty driving experience, while retaining the original model�s many uniquely attractive technical innovations and adding numerous premium features. It remains the perfect �flagship� model for Mazda in the UK.�
Source: Mazda


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