Despite a sexy and still modern styling, the RX-8 will celebrate next year its fifth anniversary and Mazda is currently working on its replacement due to go on sale from 2009. A development mule has been caught and from the shape we can guess a few hints for the next-generation RX-8.
The prototype appears to be wider than the current model. At this stage it is not known if the car will receive new powertrains or upgrade the current units. Secrecy surrounds the engine spec although some observers think the future RX-8 will the 16X Renesis rotary engine unveiled at the last Tokyo Motor Show. Internally dubbed 13B-MSP, the 16X Renesis saw its displacement growing from 1.3-litre two 1.6-litre and features a direct-injection system to boost power and reduce emissions, and oil consumption.
The current RX-8 has only been available as a 2+2 coupé although Mazda considered producing a two-seat version. It is rumoured that the next-generation will offer a convertible variant in 2011-2012.
Source: Autoblog
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