The Mazda RX-8 opens a new chapter in sports car history.

Marking the return of rotary power, Mazda's flagship RX-8 is the only sports car to combine great dynamics with centre opening Freestyle Doors and room for four adults.

The innovative RX-8 also inherits Mazda's pure-bred sports car DNA which manifests itself as a super-stiff, purpose built chassis, light kerb weight (evenly distributed front and back) and class leading ride, handling, steering and brakes.

It also looks like a Mazda sports car, another crucial element of the company's DNA.

And like Mazda's first sports car, the 1967 rotary-powered Cosmo Sport, the RX-8 makes sports car ownership more affordable, by offering class-leading value as well as unrivalled quality and craftsmanship.

The all-new RX-8 line-up comes standard with an impressive list of features that include 18-inch alloy wheels and tyres, traction control, DSC dynamic stability control and six-airbags.

On sale from August 1, the RX-8 is the only exotic car priced below the luxury car tax threshold at $56,170 for the six-speed manual and $57,000 for the automatic.

Cruise control, power windows and mirrors, a limited slip differential, six-disc in-dash CD player and climate control air conditioning are also part of the package.

Buyers can option a Leather Pack that includes leather seat trim, High Intensity Discharge (Xenon) headlamps, a Bose premium sound system, power-operated driver's seat, front fog lamps and on manual models, drilled aluminium pedals.

The Leather Pack models are priced at $62,610 for the manual and $63,280 for the automatic.

The managing director of Mazda Australia, Malcolm Gough said: "The RX-8 is a sports car like no other, offering turbine-smooth rotary power and class leading dynamics all wrapped up in a great-looking body that offers four-doors, four seats and a decent-sized boot.

"No other sports car can boast similar attributes and when you add a sub luxury tax price tag and a long list of standard features, the RX-8 is not just a class leader but an exciting new-generation flagship for Mazda.

"The RX-8 is the third, Stylish, Insightful and Spirited Mazda to be launched within 12 months. It is the ultimate expression of Zoom-Zoom.

"We already have about 400 pre-orders and we anticipate this will increase further before our August 1 on sale date now that we have a few mass production cars to demonstrate the unique features of this innovative sports car

"While strong demand in the US and Japan will restrict our supply, we expect the RX-8 will add about 900 sales this year to what will be the best sales year ever for Mazda in Australia with about 45,000 retails".

At the heart of the RX-8 spins an all-new, compact Renesis rotary engine that delivers great performance, improved fuel economy and low emissions. It was recently voted "International Engine of the Year 2003" by 50 motoring journalists from 22 countries.

Redlined at 9000rpm, the 654cc x 2, fuel injected rotary engine produces a remarkable 177 kilowatts (ECE) of power at 8200rpm and 211Nm (ECE) of torque at 5500rpm when mated to a six-speed manual gearbox. The engine passes Euro Stage III emission standards.

Manual models accelerate from 0-100kmh in 6.2 seconds.

Automatic models feature a four-speed Activematic transmission that offers the choice of gearstick manual control or wheel mounted paddles with separate up and down shift control just a fingertip away. Activematic models are redlined at 7200rpm and develop 141kW (ECE) and 220Nm (ECE).

The ultra-compact rotary engine allows a front mid-ship engine layout, enabling the RX-8 to be the only sports car in the world to offer genuine accommodation for four adults.

Unrestricted rear seat access is provided by a Freestyle Door System, with the front and rear doors opening from the centre of the car.

The absence of centre pillars allows a surprisingly large door opening, making entry and exit supremely easy.

For a sports car, the boot also boasts ample space, swallowing 290 litres of cargo or two standard-sized golf bags or two medium-sized hard-shell suitcases.

To realise the RX-8's exceptional driving performance, Mazda's engineers employed an all-new, purpose-built sports car body architecture incorporating a rigid underbody frame and cabin reinforcements to give the RX-8 a body that, in terms of rigidity and low weight, surpasses those of sport sedans of the same wheelbase.

Use of the advanced front midship layout, location of the plastic fuel tank between the rear wheels and other measures deliver an ideal 50:50 fore-aft weight split.

The suspension is all new. At the front the car uses an in-wheel type double wishbone set up, while at the back the RX-8 employs a new multi-link (five links per side) system.

The rear suspension's extended length links are optimally arranged to maintain correct geometry and compliance to keep the rear 18-inch tyres in contact with the road at all times.

Additionally, the RX-8 is equipped with newly developed, rack-drive electric power steering that transmits just the right amount of road information back to the driver.

Stopping power is provided by large-diameter ventilated disc brakes controlled by ABS with EBD.

Mazda designers have used the latest computer techniques and detailed crash test data to ensure world-class safety levels for both frontal and offset collisions. As a result the RX-8 comes standard with dual front, front side and curtain airbags.

Like other Mazda passenger cars the RX-8 is covered by a three year, unlimited kilometre warranty. However, RX-8 customers will also enjoy 24-hour roadside assistance for the period of the warranty and they will be invited to participate in a Jim Murcott Advanced Driving Centre car control course.

Incorporating Mazda's sports car DNA, which has created cars such as the MX-5 and RX-7, the all-new RX-8 opens a new chapter in sports car history. It is the only car to combine great design, performance and dynamics with the practicality of four doors and four seats. This unique combination ensures that the RX-8 appeals to a much wider range of buyers than conventional sports cars.

Quick Reference

• The Mazda RX-8 opens a new chapter in sports car history
• Its combination of striking looks, dynamic performance and space for four full-size adults ensures that the RX-8 is a sports car like no other
• It is the third, all-new Stylish, Insightful and Spirited Mazda to be launched within 12 months
• Since 1967 Mazda has sold more than 1.8 million rotary-powered cars and has sold more than 11,000 RX-7s in Australia. The last RX-7 was sold here in February 1999
• It inherits Mazda's pure-bred sports car DNA which manifests itself as a super-stiff, purpose built chassis, light weight that's evenly distributed front and back and class-leading ride, handling, steering and brakes
• The unique four-seat RX-8 with Freestyle Doors appeals to a much broader range of buyers than traditional sports cars
• At $56,170 it is the only real exotic car priced below the luxury tax threshold
• Mazda Australia, which will be limited by supply, expects to sell 900 RX-8s this year. Longer term, sales are likely to settle at 75 a month
• The RX-8 is protected by Mazda's comprehensive three-year unlimited kilometre warranty. Buyers will also enjoy 24-hour roadside assistance for the same period
• RX-8 buyers will also be invited to participate in a driving course operated by the Jim Murcott Driving Centre

In Detail

Almost all of the world's car makers have built sports cars. Some lack comfort and functionality, while others are prohibitively expensive.

Mazda has been one of the most successful in this market segment. It builds the world's most popular sports car, the MX-5, and has produced many rotary-powered classics including the now legendary RX-7.

Since 1967 Mazda has sold more than 1.8 million rotary-powered cars and has delivered more than 11,000 RX-7s locally, with the last RX-7 sold here in February 1999.

The RX-8 stays true to Mazda's rich sports car heritage, which began with the rotary-powered Cosmo - a car that was developed to make sports car driving accessible to most drivers.

And the RX-8 inherits Mazda's pure-bred sports car DNA which manifests itself as a super-stiff, purpose built chassis, light weight, 50:50 weight distribution and class leading ride, handling, steering and brakes. It also looks like a Mazda sports car, another vital part of the company's DNA.

However, its combination of striking looks, dynamic performance and space for four full-size adults and a practical boot ensures that the RX-8 is a sports car like no other, with the RX-8 opening a new chapter in sports car history.

The third all-new Stylish, Insightful and Spirited Mazda to be launched within 12 months, the flagship RX-8 marks a welcome return to rotary power for the car maker.

The unique four-door, four-seat RX-8, which is the only real exotic car priced below the luxury tax threshold, appeals to a much broader range of buyers than traditional sports cars.

With its class-leading handling, steering, braking and performance, from its 177kW Renesis rotary engine, Mazda's new flagship will appeal to traditional sports car buyers looking for a "pure" driving experience.

The RX-8's dynamic ability coupled with its centre-opening Freestyle Doors and virtual B pillar, space for two adults in the back and a decent boot, ensures the car appeals to customers that desire a sports car but need extra space to accommodate kids or friends.

On the other hand, sports sedan and coupe buyers craving something more exotic will be tempted by its great looks and on-road ability - including its ride quality and interior layout and craftsmanship.

And the RX-8 will also appeal to previous rotary buyers looking for the next installment in rotary engine technology.

Mazda Australia's national marketing manager, Martin Benders, said: "So far our order book of close to 400 pre launch customers reflects the car's broad appeal.

"Customers have embraced the RX-8's ability to accommodate four full-sized adults in a great-looking body, while still delivering all the sports car attributes of strong acceleration, pin-sharp steering and neutral, confidence-building handling and grip."

"The RX-8 has struck a chord with a wide and diverse group with our oldest customer so far a 75-year-old RX-7 owner, while the youngest is a 20 something woman who is about to become a mother.

"The unique features of the RX-8 will ensure that its sales remain strong for a longer period than conventional sports cars, which traditionally have a very limited 'shelf life'.

"Our statistics show that the six-speed manual model is by far the most popular with an order rate of 85 per cent and the Leather Pack is also in demand with 80 per cent of orders".

Mazda Australia, which will be limited by supply, expects to sell about 900 RX-8s this year, while longer term, sales are likely to settle at 75 a month.

The most requested of the car's seven color palette is the new Velocity Red mica metallic with Brilliant Black, Lightning Yellow and Sunlight Silver also proving popular.

Buyers can also choose their interior trim color depending on their exterior color choice. Leather Pack versions of Velocity Red, Brilliant Black, Titanium Grey and Sunlight Silver are available with either black or a stunning red and black leather combination.

Winning Blue, Nordic Green and Lightning Yellow are available with black leather, while non Leather Pack models come with an elegant black and grey cloth combination.

The RX-8 is protected by Mazda's comprehensive three year unlimited kilometre warranty and RX-8 buyers will also enjoy 24-hour roadside assistance for the same period.

In addition RX-8 buyers will also be invited to participate in an advanced driving course through the Jim Murcott Driving Centre.

Customers looking to further personalise their RX-8's will be able to select from a diverse range of dealer-fit accessories, including a body kit, aluminium fuel lid, alarm, rear parking sensors and rotor-shaped air valve caps.

Priced from $56,170 all RX-8's come standard with:

• 18-inch alloy wheels
• sports tune suspension
• front suspension strut brace bar
• ABS anti-lock brakes with Electronic Brake force Distribution
• traction control
• DSC anti-skid control
• a torque-sensing Super Limited Slip Differential
• dual stage inflation front airbags
• front seat mounted side airbags
• curtain airbags
• front seatbelt pretensioners with load limiters
• anti-whiplash front seats and intrusion-minimising brake pedal
• remote central locking with deadlock function
• engine immobilizer
• in-glass radio antenna
• flip-open rear windows
• heated and power operated mirrors
• power windows with key-off delay operation
• exterior temperature gauge
• map reading lamps
• cargo room lamp
• climate control air conditioning
• ventilation pollen filter
• wheel-mounted cruise control
• AM/FM stereo with wheel-mounted controls
• six disc in-dash CD
• leather wrapped wheel and shift knob
• cloth sports seats and cloth door inserts
• driver's seat height and lumbar adjustment
• four cupholders
• illuminated vanity mirrors
• sunglasses storage
• lockable rear "ski" hatch
• driver's footrest
• puncture repair kit and compressor
• a space saver spare tyre

The optional Leather Pack models, which are priced from $62,610, add:

• leather seat trim
• HID (Xenon) headlamps with auto leveling and pop-up washers
• front fog lamps
• 300 Watt BOSE premium sound system complete with six disc, in-dash CD player and nine speakers
• 8-way power adjustable driver's seat

And featured on the six-speed manual models are:

• drilled aluminium pedals.

PRICING

Mazda has an impressive history of designing and building cutting edge sports cars. The Cosmo Sport, RX-7 and MX-5 roadster are proof of the company's daring, go-it-alone approach to sports car manufacturing.

This design heritage, an essential element of Mazda DNA, is embodied in cars that exhibit low weight, a superb ride, exceptional grip and handling and dynamic sports car styling that directly expresses these qualities. With the design of the Mazda RX-8, Mazda's DNA has been taken a step further to express a new sports car dynamism.

The RX-8 creates new values by expressing: genuine sports car styling packed with vitality and tension, space to comfortably accommodate four adults that belies the car's compact-looking exterior, a form that expresses the feel of a genuine sports car, as well as quality realised by the use of high quality materials and the emotional impact unique to the rotary engined sports car.

Quick Reference

• Original and innovative ideas, combined with Mazda's long and distinguished sport car heritage, which can boast the Cosmo Sport, RX-7 and MX-5, have shaped the RX-8's unique styling
• Three key factors influenced the design of the RX-8: dynamic form, stability and tension
• The RX-8's interior signals a thorough pursuit of excitement in form and feeling of control
• The interior's most striking feature is its prominent backbone extending from the central section of the instrument panel, through the centre console and on to the rear parcel shelf
• To give the interior an inviting, luxurious look, the instrument panel features various innovative shapes, textures and colours
• The interior trim, which capitalises on the car's centre pillarless construction, has a look of flowing continuity that extends to the rear of the cabin
• RX-8 features a high-grade audio system, with the head unit distinguished by a high-gloss piano black control panel
• Body colors were selected in accordance with a theme of "pure and dynamic," and feature mainly metallic colors that include the new Velocity Red (mica), Nordic Green and Winning Blue.
• The RX-8's original four-door, four-seater packaging delivers a sports car that offers supreme driving enjoyment and exceptional functionality
• Highly efficient packaging is made possible by a long 2700 mm wheelbase, the compact, lightweight Renesis rotary engine and a host of other innovative Mazda technologies
• With the car's body shell eliminating centre pillars, the cabin design has been optimised to give a compact look, an important sports car styling element
• With no centre pillars and wide door opening angles, the RX-8 boasts an unexpectedly large door opening and easy access for both front and rear-seat passengers
• For safety, the rear doors feature a combined outer/inner handle located in the door trim that prevents opening of a rear door unless its corresponding front door is also open
• The RX-8's boot volume is 290 litres (VDA), enabling it to swallow two mid-sized suitcases or two nine-inch golf bags
• To maximise cargo space RX-8 customers have the option of carrying an emergency puncture repair kit and/or a spacesaver spare tyre
• A lockable "ski" hatch mounted between the rear seats enables long items to be carried inside the cabin
• Front and rear console boxes contain cupholders, while pockets conveniently sized to store road maps, and other handy receptacles, are thoughtfully placed throughout the cabin
• All RX-8 models come standard with an impressive sound system that can be controlled by illuminated, wheel-mounted controls
• On non Leather Pack models the sound system comprises an AM/FM digital tuner and six speakers with total rated power of 100 W. The system, which includes an in-dash six-stack CD player, features an auto-levelling control to automatically adjust volume according to vehicle speed
• Leather Pack models boast a premium BOSE 300 W system equipped with nine speakers

In Detail

Exterior Design

The guiding concept for the exterior was "Athletic Tension," with designers paying particular attention to creating a dynamic style. Athletic tension helps the RX-8 convey a look of pent-up energy waiting to be unleashed - the look of a car with true sporting potential. The RX-7 and the MX-5 roadster spring from the same origins.

To achieve this goal, Mazda rejected the idea of using high power to overcome a heavy body. Instead it sought to reduce weight and refine handling to engender a satisfying feeling of unity between driver and car with the dynamic form of the RX-8. To embody this design concept, three factors were identified: dynamic form, stability and tension. These are the essential factors that make the Mazda RX-8 an unmistakably genuine sports car.

Dynamic Form

The most distinctive feature of the RX-8's design is its dynamic body. This dynamism is expressed in three-dimensional relief, starting at the front air intake extending through the body sides to the boot lid. The effect of vitality and motion is achieved through the sculpted surfaces of the body rather than two-dimensional character lines. From every angle, the RX-8 gives the impression of a high-performance car - aggressive, yet stylish and original.

Stability

The feeling of stability is essentially determined by the balance between the body and cabin and the position of the wheels. To determine the optimal cabin size for the RX-8, designers went through a repeated trial-and-error process as they sought to strike the ideal balance between cabin volume and field-of-view. Then, while assuring the right amount of space for four adults, they worked to achieve an extremely compact look for the cabin. The combination of compact cabin and powerful body created the low-slung proportions that translate into a look of stability that is essential in a sports car.

The RX-8's centre pillarless, centre-opening, Freestyle Door System ensures an exceptionally easy entry and exit and allows a reduction in rear door size that makes a significant contribution to the compact look of the cabin.

Additionally, the RX-8 inherits its C pillar design from the first-generation RX-7, a characteristic expression of Mazda sports car DNA that also contributes to the compact look of the cabin. Furthermore, the wheels are located towards the corners of the body and along with the pronounced fenders and short front and rear overhangs, underscore the car's powerful feeling of stability.

Tension

The entire body is sleek and trim, with smooth, taut lines that suggest the alert readiness of an athlete in peak condition. In particular, the front fenders and door panels have a pronounced three-dimensional form unseen in other cars, giving a lean and powerfully-muscular impression. To embody these radical design features, Mazda used the latest computer techniques to refine press-forming technology in repeated simulations. These uncompromising design principles and radical advances in precision manufacturing technology are reflected in the bold front fenders.

Function and Emotion

In addition to the expressions of dynamic form, stability and tension, Mazda pursued weight reduction and aerodynamics to maximise performance.

For example, the rear window not only uses a lightweight material, Mazda's designers further shaved weight by altering the surface curve to allow a reduced sheet thickness. This is just one example of the extraordinary effort put into weight-saving measures throughout the car, pushing weight reduction as far as design limitations would allow.

Another example: To counteract vehicle lift and to bolster high-speed stability, the designers sought to optimise the form of the rear deck with the use of a flat floor.

Design elements such as the rotor shaped bonnet power bulge create a vivid impression of rotary engine performance.

Other features such as the mechanical overtones in the headlamp design, the unique combination lamps employing LEDs as side markers and the aluminium wheels, demonstrate the close attention to detail that conveys an emotional message to sports car enthusiasts.

Interior Design

As with the exterior, the Mazda RX-8's interior design signals a thorough pursuit of sports car excitement in its form and feeling of control, although the designers avoided the strictly driver-oriented approach of conventional sports car cabins.

Instead, the designers worked to develop an "intimate" theme that expresses a more modern, high quality and refined sports car ambience. The spacious, innovative interior invites and welcomes through opened doors and while luxuriously appointed, the interior echoes the dynamic impression of the RX-8's exterior and creates an emotional tone that appeals to sports car drivers. Key elements that express the look and feel of the cabin are its dynamic form and comfort and its emotional appeal and quality.

Dynamic Form

The most striking feature of the interior is its prominent backbone extending from the central section of the instrument panel, through the centre console and on to the rear parcel shelf.

The RX-8's distinctive bonnet power bulge is the starting point for the interior's dynamic looks, beginning a continuous shape that incorporates the centre tunnel that houses the drive shaft. The interior is enhanced by the aluminium frame sidebars of the centre console, a styling feature that hints of the car's advanced mechanical features.

Comfort

To give the interior an inviting, luxurious look, the instrument panel features shapes, textures and colours that express various innovative design concepts.

The robust shape of the central section, for example, communicates the strength of the car's frame, while the sides are designed to convey a feeling of occupant protection. These shapes give the powerful impression of a genuine sports machine.

Additionally, the interior trim, which capitalises on the centre pillarless construction, has a look of flowing continuity that extends to the rear of the cabin. The clever use of textures provides a strong contrast, while soft materials are fitted in optimal locations to improve the textural attributes of the interior and express an ambience of modern comfort.

Emotion And Quality

Another significant feature of the RX-8's interior is its combination of emotion and refined quality. Firstly, the four bucket seats, carefully sculpted to provide optimal support, do much to express the character of the RX-8.

The compact three-cluster layout of the instrument panel is optimally positioned in the driver's field of view without distracting the driver's attention from the road ahead. The combination of indirect blue illumination and red meters sets the instrumentation in bright visual relief. The mesh material for the lightweight sun visors is just one of the many fine details designed to appeal to the emotions.

In addition, the rotor-shaped aluminium seat bezel motif, manual transmission shift knob and the centrally-located tachometer that registers up to 10,000 rpm, hint at the performance offered by Mazda's next-generation rotary engine.

RX-8 also features a high-grade audio system, distinguished by a high-gloss piano black control panel. Other touches contributing to a robust yet refined operational feel include the use of metal for the internal door handles, giving them a quality touch that helps create a high-class ambience.

Color Variations

Body colors were selected in accordance with a theme of "pure and dynamic," and feature mainly metallic colors for a quality sports image. Vivid, sporty body colors include Velocity Red (mica), Winning Blue and Lightning Yellow.

Velocity Red (mica) is the signature color for the RX-8 and incorporates a fresh-looking, three-coat finish that surpasses the previous Mazda red. Nordic Green is another new color that makes its debut on the RX-8.

The interior is offered in three trim combinations of black highlighted by dark grey cloth, black leather or a striking black and red combination that adds red leather trim to part of the steering wheel and seats.

Packaging

Unique Four-door Four-seater Package

Highly efficient packaging on a 2700 mm wheelbase is made possible by the compact, lightweight Renesis rotary engine and a host of other innovative Mazda technologies. In particular, the newly developed centre-opening Freestyle Door System is a key technology, allowing a compact-looking, sports-style cabin combined with the convenience of easy entry/exit. And boot space is also generous for a car in this class.

This original four-door, four-seater packaging produces a sports car that offers supreme driving enjoyment along with exceptional functionality, assuring broad appeal to a wider group of motoring enthusiasts.

Renesis And Freestyle Door System Realise A Four-door, Four Seat Package

The success of the Mazda RX-8's advanced front mid-ship layout is largely derived from the low position of its powertrain components. Mounting the engine, prop shaft and other parts of the powertrain low meant the bonnet and cowl could be lower for a less obstructed view. This in turn allowed for a lower seating position and the low-slung proportions essential in a sports car.

Additionally, the exhaust gas manifold and catalytic converter are also optimally located, with the large sectional area catalytic converter occupying the dead space under the cabin floor and below the knees of front occupants, thereby assuring proper exhaust routing without interfering with cabin space.

Front seatback thickness is minimised and the seat shape optimised to achieve comfort and support, as well as adequate knee clearance for passengers in the rear. And, employing a concave floor section below the front seats allowed generous legroom for rear passengers without raising the position of the front seats. Front seat sliders are also optimally located to give plenty of rear seat legroom.

Attention to design details such as these make the Mazda RX-8 a unique sports car with well-crafted front/rear seating space for four adults.

Centre-opening Freestyle Door System

The Freestyle Door System, along with the advanced front midship powertrain layout, is a key technology in the creation of the RX-8. With the car's body shell eliminating centre pillars, cabin design could be optimised to give a compact look, an important styling element for a sports car.

With no centre pillars and a maximum front door opening angle of 67° and rear door angle of 80°, the RX-8 reveals an unexpectedly large door opening space. This allows easy access to the front seats, but is particularly beneficial in facilitating entry and exit for passengers in the rear.

Rear doors open at an approximate 10° angle to a line drawn at right angles to the door hinge, preventing them from impinging on the body panelling when opened. The rear door-opening angle is also set to optimally reduce the effort of door opening. The lightweight aluminium rear door construction ensures smooth and easy door operation, while the absence of centre pillars provides a spacious door opening area.

For safety, rear doors feature a combined outer/inner handle located in the door trim that prevents opening of a rear door unless its corresponding front door is also open.

All four doors feature an original construction that benefits from the latest computer analysis techniques and rigorous impact tests used to assure the highest levels of safety in the event of a side impact.

Deep Boot For Practical Use

The RX-8's boot offers enough room for practical, everyday use. To maximise cargo space RX-8 customers have the option of carrying an emergency puncture repair kit, or spacesaver spare. In addition, the trunk lid support mechanism (a double hinge system) accommodates hinges and dampers outside the boot space, so they do not intrude into the luggage space.

Together, these design measures allowed a short rear overhang, which is approximately 130 mm less than the RX-7's.

The RX-8's boot volume is 290 liters (VDA), enough for two suitcases or two nine-inch diameter golf bags, which would satisfy the demands for a weekend trip for four adults.

A lockable and removeable "ski" hatch, mounted between the rear seats, enables long items to be carried.

In addition, the Freestyle Door arrangement and absence of centre pillars also makes loading baggage onto the rear seats very easy.

Convenient Storage Spaces

Front and rear console boxes contain cupholders, while pockets conveniently sized to store road maps and other handy receptacles are thoughtfully placed throughout the cabin. The console box incorporates a new idea in space-efficient storage: the lid, which doubles as an armrest, slides rearward to reveal two cup holders behind the gear shift lever. In the rear the console opens to reveal storage for four CD cases.

Top Class Audio Systems

All RX-8 models come standard with an impressive sound system that can be controlled by illuminated, wheel-mounted controls.

The fully integrated head unit comprises an AM/FM digital tuner and six speakers with total rated power of 100 W. The system, which includes an in-dash six-stack CD player, features an auto-levelling control to automatically adjust volume according to vehicle speed.

Leather pack models get a premium BOSE 300 W system equipped with nine speakers. The system's 9-inch Nd woofers (x2) feature neodymium-boron magnets, which exhibit about ten times the magnetic density of conventional ferrite magnets. In addition, the system incorporates 2-inch tweeter (x2), 80mm tweeter, 2-inch rear tweeter (x2) and 6 x 9-inch mid-range speakers (x2). The premium audio system also includes an AUDIOPILOT automatic sound field compensator that compensates for noise in the cabin.

\* Nd and AUDIOPILOT are registered marks of Bose Corporation

All of Mazda's accumulated expertise in designing and building premium sports cars was brought to bear in the development of the RX-8. It features an advanced front-midship, rear drive, low centre-of-gravity layout with 50:50 weight distribution, low yaw inertia moment and a lightweight body.

The new compact Renesis engine was essential to the realisation of Mazda's next-generation, advanced front-midship sports car platform. The double wishbone front suspension and long-arm multi-link rear suspension layout deliver superior handling stability, allied with a comfortable ride that is unprecedented in a sports car.

The Freestyle Door System and body structure with no centre pillars are key technologies behind the four-door four-seater format, and also contribute to the high level of body rigidity. The resulting dynamics make the Mazda RX-8 a class leader.

Quick Reference

• The RX-8 is new from the wheels up and employs Mazda's all-new sports car chassis architecture
• The RX-8 features a front-midship powertrain layout with the engine located behind the centre line of the front wheels
• The naturally aspirated Renesis engine is both smaller and lighter than the already compact 13B-REW that powered the turbocharged RX-7
• The Renesis engine is so compact that it has been mounted 60mm further back and 40mm lower in the chassis than the engine in the RX-7
• Use of the advanced front-midship layout and the location of the plastic fuel tank in front of the rear wheels, help deliver an ideal 50:50 fore-aft weight split and a 5 per cent lower yaw inertia moment than the RX-7
• The RX-8's Renesis rotary engine has its origins in the MSP-RE powerplant unveiled at the 1995 Tokyo Motor Show under the bonnet of the RX-01 concept sports car
• The name Renesis stands for "the Rotary Engine's geNESIS"
• It was recently voted "International Engine of the Year 2003" by 50 motoring journalists from 22 countries.
• The engine is a 654 cc x two rotor unit that generates 177kW (ECE) at 8200 rpm and 211Nm (ECE) of torque at 5500 rpm when mated to a six-speed manual transmission
• Manual models accelerate from standstill to 100kmh in 6.2 seconds
• Activematic models which feature wheel-mounted gearshift paddles develop 141kW (ECE) at 7000rpm and 220Nm (ECE) at 5000rpm
• The key technology of Renesis is its side exhaust port configuration. The exhaust ports have been relocated to the rotary chamber side housing alongside the intake ports, eliminating intake/exhaust port timing overlap
• Australian specification engines meet the strict Euro Stage III emission standards that do not come into law here until 2005 for new models and 2006 for models already on sale before 2005
• The Renesis engine spins faster than the superseded 13B-REW unit, developing maximum power at 8200rpm instead of 6500 rpm. This step-up to a higher revving engine was achieved by virtue of an 11 per cent reduction in rotor weight
• The weight of the compact, naturally aspirated Renesis engine is on par with an all-aluminium, in-line four cylinder engine
• Manual models incorporate a one-piece carbon fibre composite prop shaft and other components designed to suppress vibration and achieve a light, short-throw shift feel
• The RX-8 features a torque-sensing Super LSD to support enjoyable and safe driving over a wider range of conditions
• The car's body is more rigid than that of a sport sedan of the same wheelbase
• The RX-8 uses new suspension front and rear with double wishbones doing the work at the front and a long link, multi-link rear suspension system at the back
• A newly-developed electric power-assist, rack-and-pinion steering has been used for the first time on any Mazda
• The RX-8 is fitted with 18-inch diameter tires and aluminium alloy wheels and large, ventilated front disc brakes that provide ample stopping power

In Detail

Advanced Front-midship Powertrain

The front-midship powertrain layout, with the weight of the engine located behind the centre line of the front wheels, is part of Mazda's sports car heritage that has been applied over the years in cars such as the Mazda RX-7 and MX-5 roadster. The aim of this unique powertrain configuration is to place the engine close to the centre of the vehicle to achieve uniform weight distribution over all four wheels and minimise the car's yaw inertia moment by reducing weight on the car's front end.

With the RX-8, Mazda has taken the evolution of its sport-dedicated layout a stage further with the advanced front-midship configuration, made possible by the next-generation Renesis rotary engine.

Another Evolutionary Advance in Mazda DNA

The naturally aspirated Renesis engine is both smaller and lighter than the already compact 13B-REW that powered the turbocharged RX-7. The physically smaller Renesis engine and the elimination of auxiliary equipment such as a turbocharger has reduced the height of the new engine to 338mm - about the same height as the transmission.

As the engine is so compact, the intake unit could be mounted away from the power unit towards the front of the vehicle. In addition, the height of the oil pan is reduced to about half that of a conventional design (approx 40mm deep) allowing the engine to be mounted 60mm further back and 40mm lower than the engine in the RX-7. The new layout has enabled the dashboard to be moved 80mm forward, reducing the distance between the engine and passengers by 140mm.

Mazda engineers also used a supercomputer to conduct structural analyses aimed at reducing rib thickness in the engine's side housing and other locations without sacrificing rigidity. Additionally, the elimination of brackets and use of direct mounting for the air conditioner results in further weight loss for the engine, as well as less weight and reduced size for engine auxiliary units.

Use of the advanced front-midship layout, location of the plastic fuel tank in front of the rear wheels and other measures assure an ideal 50:50 fore-aft weight split, as well as a 5 per cent lower yaw inertia moment than the RX-7.

A vehicle's yaw inertia moment is the magnitude of the turning force generated about a hypothetical vertical axis at the vehicle's centre of gravity during steering inputs.

This turning force increases with increasing weight at the vehicle's front end, causing the car to veer away from the driver's intended path. Conversely, the yaw inertia moment decreases with decreasing weight at the vehicle's front end, encouraging sharper, more linear response to steering inputs; in other words, better cornering capability.

The RX-8's 50:50 fore-aft weight distribution, placing weight evenly over all four wheels, assures exceptional stability. Locating the engine 40mm lower than its RX-7 counterpart yields a lower vehicle centre of gravity, which together with the wide track specification, has a cumulative effect of assuring high roll stiffness.

The RX-8's exceptional cornering and stability deliver a class of handling that keeps the car perfectly attuned to the driver's intentions. And the advanced front-midship powertrain layout, low centre of gravity and long 2700mm wheelbase also bolster the RX-8's straight-line stability.

It's More Practical

The advanced front-midship layout also enabled designers to lower the RX-8's bonnet height, providing a clearer forward/downward view for the vehicle. The shape of the front fenders also lets the driver place the vehicle on the road with more precision - an important part of open road and city driving.

Next-generation Renesis Rotary Delivers Driving Excitement

The RX-8's Renesis rotary engine has its origins in the MSP-RE powerplant unveiled at the 1995 Tokyo Motor Show under the bonnet of the RX-01 concept sports car. The name Renesis, which stands for "the Rotary Engine's geNESIS," was given to the engine in the 1999 iteration of the RX-EVOLV.

Renesis - an engine boasting innovative technologies such as side intake/side exhaust porting - is a 654 cc x two rotor unit that generates 177kW (ECE) at 8200 rpm and 211Nm (ECE) of torque at 5500 rpm when mated to a six-speed manual transmission. Renesis also shows substantial fuel efficiency and emission improvement over the RX-7's engine.

Manual models accelerate from standstill to 100kmh in 6.2 seconds.

By capitalising on the intrinsic benefits of the Renesis rotary engine - namely, low weight, compact size and high performance - Mazda succeeded in developing the RX-8, a wholly new concept four-door, four-seat sports car.

Basic Characteristics Of Side Intake/Side Exhaust Port Layout

The key technology of Renesis is its side exhaust port configuration, with the exhaust ports relocated to the rotary chamber side housing alongside the intake ports.

The chief advantage of this layout is the elimination of intake/exhaust port timing overlap. This measure ensures that exhaust gas is not retained and carried over to the next intake cycle, thereby promoting more stable combustion and better fuel economy.

The engine also has two exhaust ports per rotor chamber, giving Renesis almost twice the exhaust port area of its predecessor. With ample exhaust port area assured, delaying the opening of the exhaust ports affords Renesis a longer expansion cycle, for improved thermal efficiency, power output and fuel economy.

Side exhaust ports also allow engineers more freedom to optimise port profiles. With Renesis, both the six-port High Power version (manual transmission) and four-port Standard Power version (automatic transmission) have almost 30 per cent more intake port cross-sectional area than the previous engine. Additionally, the intake port close timing has been extended, resulting in increased charging volume and more power.

With the previous engine, unburned gases (hydrocarbons) were voided from the combustion chamber via the peripheral port. With the side-exhaust ports of the Renesis, unburned gases are retained for burning in the next combustion cycle, further reducing regulated emissions.

Australian specification engines meet the strict Euro Stage III emission standards that do not come into law here until 2005 for new models and 2006 for models already on sale before 2005.

Mazda began developing rotary technology in 1961, and since the late seventies has been the world's only rotary engine manufacturer to depend entirely on manufacturing technology and equipment developed in house

Renesis A High Tech, High Output Engine

Synthetic Intake System For Variable Valves: The side-intake/side-exhaust port Renesis gains 30 per cent in intake port area over the previous engine, and this, combined with the delayed intake port close timing, makes for a sizable increase in charging volume resulting in greater power output. The engine also incorporates innovative technology designed to boost filling efficiency.

The High Power specification engine (manual models) has three intake ports per rotor chamber: primary, secondary and auxiliary (giving a total of six intake ports for the twin rotor Renesis engine), with each subject to different timing. The variable intake control system operates opening/closing of the secondary and auxiliary intake ports. Renesis also takes full advantage of the incoming air's dynamic charge effect to boost charging for more substantial low-to-mid range torque, as well as increased torque and power output at higher engine speeds. The intake system on the Standard Power unit (Activematic models), which is tuned for superb driveability at normal rpm, has two intake ports per rotor, for a total of four intake ports. These are controlled by the opening/closing of a variable intake valve governing use of the secondary intake port. For even more accurate control, Renesis incorporates an electronic throttle control system that optimises intake control in response to feedback of sensors monitoring the degree and speed of accelerator pedal operation.

Variable Fresh Air Duct (FAD): The High Power specification engine mated to the six-speed manual transmission incorporates a variable fresh air duct in addition to a large, low resistance air cleaner. At about 7250 rpm, a shutter valve opens to shorten the intake manifold upstream of the air cleaner. The shutter valve works in tandem with the variable intake valve to boost torque and power at high engine speeds. The fresh air duct is partially inserted into the air cleaner and enables an optimal length intake system by valve opening/closing.

Straight Exhaust System Layout: To achieve a smooth flow of exhaust gases, the Renesis exhaust system, including the exhaust manifold, was made as straight as possible. The system employs large diameter exhaust pipes and a high capacity main silencer with the inlet pipe located straight through the centre of the silencer body to reduce flow resistance. These measures contribute to the engine's high power output.

Technology For Improved Engine Response

Lightweight Rotor, Three Injectors Per Rotor, And Long-Span Engine Mount: The previous 13B-REW engine generated its maximum power output at 6500 rpm, whereas the Renesis power peak comes in at 8200 rpm. This step-up to a higher revving engine was achieved by virtue of an 11 per cent reduction in rotor weight. Additionally, the flywheel weight has been reduced by some 20 per cent compared with the previous engine. Combined, these weight-saving measures reduce inertia to assure the quick response befitting a genuine sports car engine.

Renesis also features three injectors per rotor chamber for improved fuel atomisation and employs an electronically controlled throttle and 32-bit PCM (Powertrain Control Module) for more precise control of air-fuel metering and sharper throttle response. Additionally, the engine uses a long span engine mount system with extremely long members extending laterally from the rotors' axis. The mounts are effective in suppressing engine vibration, allowing more direct transmission of power to the drive system and contributing to the vehicle's fast response and improved NVH.

Technology For Low Vibration, Distinctive Rotary Sound

Dynamically Balanced Rotors: To further refine the superior balance of the twin-rotor configuration, Mazda shifted from the previous static balance setting and instead adopted dynamic balance calculated from the mass of oil entering the rotors. This improvement, together with the effect of the long span engine mount system (mentioned previously) realises extremely low vibration during acceleration.

Counter-Rotating Fixed Gear And Tuning Of The Intake Sound: With the previous rotary engine, the direction of rotation of the fixed gear locating the rotors in the front and rear housing was the same for both rotors. With Renesis, the direction is reversed for front and rear rotors, achieving smoother rotation and reduced gear noise. Mazda also tuned the intake to give a satisfyingly sporty sound.

Technology For Fuel Economy

In addition to more stable combustion afforded by the side exhaust ports, as well as improved breathing efficiency, Renesis also shows a significant gain in fuel-efficiency through the use of the following new technologies.

Newly Designed Seals: Renesis employs a new cut-off seal located between the rotor's dual oil seals and side seal. This sealing arrangement eliminates blow-by between intake and exhaust ports and prevents carry-over of exhaust gas to the next intake cycle. Side seals are a new keystone-type with wedge-shaped section. Exhaust gas build-up against the side seal can easily cause carbonisation, but with the wedge-shaped or cuneiform side seal, the seal shape is optimised to remove carbon. The shape is also more congruent to its opposed frictional surface, achieving much better sealing proficiency.

Jet Air-Fuel Mixing System: This system is installed in intake ports to promote spray, atomisation and mixing of air and fuel. The system emits a jet of air from a constricted tube in the intake port that effectively speeds the flow of fuel over the intake port walls and boosts atomisation of fuel particles adhering to the walls. The lower end of the intake port is also shape-optimised to induce transport of atomised fuel along the air stream towards the spark plug.

Micro-Electrode Spark Plugs: The last technology employed in aid of fuel economy for the Renesis engine is the micro-electrode spark plug. This spark plug uses a small side electrode and thick gauge central electrode with an extremely fine tip that promotes stable ignition of lean air-fuel mixtures. Also, by maintaining a lower temperature for side and central electrodes, the plug achieves high heat-resistance. The tip of the central electrode, which was previously of platinum, is now made of longer-lasting iridium.

Technology For Lower Emissions

Reduction Of Unburned Gas Emission And Fast Activating Catalytic Converter:The Renesis engine retains unburned hydrocarbons from one cycle for combustion in the next - a process that vastly reduces emission of unburned gases in the exhaust. In addition, on starting the engine, secondary air is supplied to the exhaust port by an electric pump. Delivering secondary air in the gap between the dual exhaust ports promotes mixing of exhaust gas with secondary air to promote re-burning.

Furthermore, Renesis has a dual skin exhaust manifold that maintains the temperature of burned gases and ensures that exhaust temperature rises sharply on starting, for faster activation of the high-performance catalytic converter and consequently low Euro Stage III emissions.

Latest Control Technology For Precision Control Of Air-Fuel Ratio: The fuel metering system for the Renesis engine is also new. Firstly, the previous intake manifold pressure-sensing system for metering air intake volume has been replaced with the hot wire air-flow metre type for more precise metering. Also, the single-loop air-fuel ratio feedback control employing an O2 sensor located upstream of the catalytic converter has been replaced with a double-loop system featuring O2 sensors upstream and downstream of the catalytic converter. The upstream O2 sensor is a linear type achieving straight-line response to a wide-range of air-fuel ratios, promoting precise fuel control from idling to high engine speeds. Combined with the exhaust gas re-burning system (mentioned previously) this reduces exhaust emissions to one tenth the amount recorded for the previous rotary engine.

Technologies For Compact Size And Lighter Weight

Thinner Engine Ribs, Wet Sump Lubrication System And Plastic Intake Manifold: Mazda employed supercomputer analyses to reduce the thickness of supporting ribs for the engine side housing and other areas while maintaining high rigidity. Additionally, approximately half the length of the long intake manifold is now made of plastic. Mazda also cut weight by eliminating the mounting bracket for the air conditioner's condenser, replacing it with a direct-mount arrangement. Measures such as these, combined with further downsizing of equipment helped reduce overall engine weight. Renesis also has a wet sump lubrication system with oil pan depth reduced by about 40mm to approximately half that of the previous rotary engine. Taken together, the inherently compact size of the naturally aspirated Renesis engine, plus these extensive downsizing and weight-reducing measures, have yielded an engine weight on a par with all-aluminium, in-line, four-cylinder engines.

Advanced Engine Production

Mazda began developing rotary technology in 1961, and since the late seventies has been the world's only rotary engine manufacturer to depend entirely on manufacturing technology and equipment developed in house. A good example is the Mazda Digital Innovation (MDI) project that allows the company to conduct virtual simulations of Renesis manufacturing, maximising the potential performance of the engine by enabling high precision and quality production engineering.

Positive Approaches To Improving Production Quality

In 1994, Mazda introduced Total Productive Maintenance (TPM), the brainchild of the Japan Plant Maintenance Association, to its production lines. Thanks to TPM, Mazda has raised the efficiency of its production department and advanced the organisation of its quality assurance and other key aspects of the manufacturing process.

Since 1996, the company has been pursuing what it calls the Mazda Digital Innovation (MDI) project, which involves integration of CAD/CAM systems from design through production. By employing the most advanced 3-D information systems, Mazda has revolutionized its entire research and development organization. In the case of the Renesis project, Mazda used MDI to implement virtual simulations of machining processes in production engineering.

Reliable Quality - A product Of The Most Advanced Digital Technology And The Skills Of Mazda's Production Staff

An example of Mazda's advanced use of digital technology can be found in the machining of the engine's rotors. Three dimensional design data is received from the engine development team and employed to create 3-D data for a metal die for casting. Based on this 3-D data, computer simulations are used to analyse and check the precision, quality and efficiency in the rotor casting and machining. Also, with regard to cutting and other machining processes, 3-D simulations are used to optimise the design of cutting tools and jigs throughout the entire manufacturing process.

To achieve the critical finish quality of side seals, cut-off seals and related components of the rotary chamber, the unique skills of our production staff, honed through years of experience in rotary engine building, is used to painstakingly check each and every item throughout the manufacturing process.

By merging tradition with our vision of future technologies, Mazda has secured enormous gains in both the precision and efficiency of the equipment used in the manufacture of its rotary engines, realizing yet another major advance in performance and quality with the innovative Renesis.

Powertrain Delivers Sports Performance

During development of the Mazda RX-8, the company pursued high performance as well as refined ride quality for everyday driving needs. To this end, the powertrain incorporates a one-piece carbon fibre composite prop shaft and other components designed to suppress vibration and achieve a light, short-throw shift feel for manual-transmission-equipped cars. Automatic models equipped with the Standard Power engine feature paddle shift levers on the steering wheel to assure sharp operation for the four-speed Activematic transmission.

One-piece Carbon Fibre Composite Prop Shaft And Vibration Damping PPF

The longer and heavier the prop shaft, the lower its resonant frequency and the more likely it is to cause vibration problems when the vehicle is travelling at high speed. For this reason, the prop shaft is usually split into two sections connected by a centre bearing. But this kind of construction invites extra weight, the enemy of good sports car design. Furthermore, attaching the centre bearing to the floor of the car encourages seepage of prop shaft vibration.

To overcome this problem, manual transmission models employ a lightweight one-piece prop shaft composed of steel, carbon fibre and high-strength plastic (AT cars use a steel prop shaft), and the transmission and differential are mounted on a rigid Power Plant Frame (PPF). This arrangement not only weighs about five kilograms less than a conventional two-piece prop shaft, it also eliminates the need to attach the prop shaft to the vehicle floor. The result is a substantial reduction in NVH levels.

Additionally, the PPF is equipped with dynamic dampers that control resonance and have a closed section structure, improving the direct, linear acceleration feel in response to accelerator pedal inputs.

Reduction In NVH Owing To Straight-line Powertrain Layout

If the universal joint connecting the prop shaft to the differential is set at an angle, it tends to generate noise as engine torque transmitted to the differential fluctuates. With the RX-8 the transmission, prop shaft and differential are configured in a straight line, whether viewed from the top or sides. This linear layout suppresses powertrain noise and vibration.

In addition, the engine mount span at 716mm is increased by 266mm over that of the RX-7, and the differential mount span of 423mm is increased by 72mm. These increases help reduce overall powertrain NVH levels.

Six-speed Manual Transmission (6MT)

The High Power specification RX-8 is equipped with a close-ratio six-speed manual transmission, ensuring that the engine's power output potential is fully realised for driving enjoyment.

• Large capacity triple-cone synchromesh is employed for the first three gears to lighten shift operation so that gear changes are accomplished quickly and with short throws.
• A push type reverse mechanism is employed, enabling a shift to reverse gear only when the shift lever is pushed down, for surer reverse shift action.

Four-speed Automatic Transmission With Steering Wheel Paddle Shift Levers

Standard Power models come with a four-speed Activematic transmission with paddle shift levers mounted on the steering wheel.

• The Activematic transmission incorporates optimal speed-change hydraulic pressure control based upon engine torque signal feedback; a large clutch capable of absorbing shift-shock; and torque-down control to efficiently reduce engine torque during transmission speed changes. These advances greatly improve main shift lever and paddle shift lever response during downshifts, achieving a sharper, more immediate shift feel.
• Real-time feedback control optimises shifting in response to continuously changing driving conditions. The Activematic's control system also includes a learning function for high efficiency and precision. It implements fine settings of hydraulic pressure for each speed-change phase, achieving an exceptionally smooth and refined shift feel adapted to the individual's driving pattern.
• A slope-control function switches the shift pattern according to whether the car is travelling up or down gradients. When travelling uphill, the system continuously calculates power in reserve and prevents upshift if it determines power is lacking. This helps to achieve smooth hill-climbing. When travelling down hill, the on-board computer estimates the gradient, and implements optimal downshift control in response to driving conditions, eliminating the necessity for frequent brake operation.
• The automatic gearbox has a short shift lever stroke, particularly between N (Neutral) and D (Drive), for a sporty shift feel. Additionally, the system incorporates steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters for easy fingertip operation. The driver presses the switch to shift down and pulls the switch back to shift up.

Super Limited Slip Differential (LSD)

The LSD in the RX-7 had a high Torque Bias Ratio at 2.6 - 3.0 and was designed for exceptionally skilled drivers. For the RX-8, Mazda developed a torque-sensing Super LSD to support enjoyable and safe driving over a wider range of conditions, from everyday manoeuvring to forceful driving-at-the-limit. Super LSD has a low TBR of 2.0, which assures predictably smooth vehicle behaviour during fast cornering and on low friction road surfaces and improves stability during off-the-line acceleration and while cruising.

Super LSD is fitted as standard on Australian specification cars.

High-rigidity, Lightweight Body

The RX-8's body shell has high static flexural and torsional rigidity and features localised reinforcements - the result of dynamic analyses - to assure body stiffness and handling stability that belies its centre-pillarless construction.

Based on information obtained in testing and analysis, engineers devised a suitably rigid underbody frame and cabin reinforcements to give the RX-8 a body that, in terms of rigidity and low weight, surpasses those of comparable sport sedans of the same wheelbase.

Rigid Underbody Frame

High-mount backbone frame: The upper part of the transmission tunnel is a rigid, closed-section high-mount backbone frame running horizontally from the front of the vehicle to the rear, and joined to the main frame front and back. This structure greatly improves flexural and torsional rigidity.

The high-mount backbone frame was made possible by the RX-8's advanced front-midship powertrain layout and lower engine mounting location, which provided adequate space in the upper part of the centre tunnel. This frame arrangement was incorporated in the RX-01 concept revealed at the 1995 Tokyo Motor Show.

Engine Bay And Transmission Tunnel Cross-members

The underbody makes maximum use of high tensile strength steel in critical locations to assure sufficient rigidity. Mazda also reduced floor panel thickness wherever possible as a weight-saving measure.

The optimised layout and large sectional area - primarily of the backbone frame - ensure a highly rigid platform and the advanced front-midship powertrain configuration enables installation of cross members connecting the frame, near the suspension installation area in the engine compartment. These cross members add rigid lateral support to the front suspension.

In addition, three cross members are fitted across the lower, open end of the transmission tunnel resulting in a substantial reduction in the time of the torsional deformation peak during steering inputs, contributing to an improved feeling of handling stability.

The RX-8 is also equipped with a cross member joining the front suspension towers (left to right) to strengthen the front damper supports and bolster stiffness around the front end of the car's body.

Effective Cabin Reinforcement

Rigid Door Opening Construction: The RX-8 also uses a high strength construction for the formed side paneling of the door openings. Ring shaped tailored blanks, formed from five steel sheets of optimal thickness welded together, provide local reinforcement where needed for the side panel inner. The panel inner also contains tailored blanks formed from three steel sheets by the same process to provide added stiffness for the door opening and cabin.

Diagonal Brace Reinforcement Of Rear Body: A V-shaped diagonal brace substantially improves stiffness of the rear body. The V-shaped brace extends from the rear end of the high-mount backbone frame and fits to the rear damper top mounts, greatly improving damper support stiffness and rear body torsional rigidity.

Weight Saving By Nitriding Treated Roof Reinforcement: The reinforcement crossing the centre of the roof is made of press-formed regular steel sheet that has been subjected to nitriding - heat treatment that bonds the titanium and nitrogen content of steel sheet - to increase its tensile strength to 1000 MPa. This treatment permits the use of thinner steel sheet to realise a weight reduction of approximately 1kg while maintaining the roof's side-impact resistance and roof crush strength.

Body Structure Designed To Reduce Transmission Of Road Noise

Minimising Road Noise Sensitivity: Mazda conducted extensive Computer Aided Engineering (CAE) studies aimed at optimising the structures of the front and rear suspension mounts to improve overall stiffness and reduce transmission of vibrations from the suspension to the car body.

Mode Control Panels: To suppress amplification of road noise caused by sympathetic resonance of floor panels with road vibrations, Mazda uses the same mode control panels found in the Mazda6. These newly developed floor panels incorporate pairs of depressions or concave lobes that vibrate at the same frequency but in opposite phase, to effectively cancel road noise transmission.

Peak Sports Car Driving Performance

To realise the concept of a new four-door, four-seater sports car, Mazda designed the RX-8's chassis to deliver unprecedented driving excitement through exceptional handling and control, while thoroughly suppressing road noise and vibration for a comfortable ride.

The RX-8 uses new double wishbone front suspension and long link, multi-link rear suspension. This suspension arrangement assures close compliance with the road surface under all driving conditions, achieving excellent control and stability.

The highly rigid rear sub-frame also incorporates six rubber mounts to improve handling stability and isolate road noise.

Additionally, the RX-8 is equipped with newly developed electric power-assist, rack-and-pinion steering that transmits just the right amount of road information back to the driver. The RX-8 is fitted with 18-inch diameter tires and aluminium alloy wheels, and large, ventilated front disc brakes that provide ample stopping power.

New Double Wishbone Front Suspension

The RX-8's low bonnet design has been made possible by the advanced front-midship powertrain and the all-new, in-wheel type double wishbone front suspension. Upper and lower arms are mounted on a highly rigid sub-frame and the long arms ensure linear alignment changes during jounce and rebound of the front wheels.

To obtain linear compliance in response to external forces, upper and lower arm bushings have been given a new zero stopper clearance structure.

Additionally, the front suspension employs monotube gas-filled dampers with large diameter pistons, while the damper lever ratio - ratio of damper stroke against wheel jounce/rebound - has been raised to improve damping efficiency. These measures assure sufficient damping force even with slight piston strokes and help realise closer compliance with the road surface over a wide range of conditions.

Forged Aluminium Upper Arms And Hot-Forged Aluminium Lower Arms: For high strength and low weight, the suspension's upper arms are forged aluminium and the lower arms hot-forged aluminium. Upper and lower arm lengths of 215mm and 339mm respectively are each about 32 mm longer than those of the RX-7. The longer arms yield linear alignment changes right up to the suspension limit, achieving exceptional controllability over diverse road and driving conditions.

Suspension Arm Bushing With Zero Stopper Clearance Construction: Mazda developed zero stopper clearance rubber for upper/lower arm ball joint mounts on both the axle and sub-frame sides. The rubber bushings are fitted with a sleeve that is integrated with the inner pipe of the stopper. With the new bushing construction, a stopper operates to suppress arm movement in the longitudinal direction caused by forces acting on the front wheels and assures linear spring characteristics from the onset of its action to maintain optimal control of compliance at all times.

High-Rigidity Sub-frame Supporting Suspension Units: Mounting critical front suspension components on a lightweight, rigid sub-frame ensures extreme support stiffness and alignment precision for the RX-8's front suspension. The sub-frame is composed of a cross-member on which the upper and lower suspension arms are mounted, an integrated main member extending fore and aft to the right and left of the cross member and a transverse member attached to the rear end of the main member.

When viewed from above, the sub-frame reveals a closed square structure, and together with the transverse member has eight rigid mounting locations for the car body. The sub-frame assures an extremely stiff suspension support and accurate alignment.

Gas-Filled Monotube Shock Absorbers: The RX-8 employs short-stroke, gas-filled monotube shock absorbers to assure freedom from cavitation and stable damping performance under the harshest driving conditions. To obtain heightened response to hydraulic pressure fluctuations as well as assured damping and stroke feel, the dampers have a highly reliable, two-piece orifice valve construction, larger diameter pistons and larger hydraulic fluid duct (port area) than previous models. The piston port is given a larger diameter for improved ride comfort, with piston diameter at 45 mm and damper rod diameter at 12.5 mm.

Straight Layout Hollow Stabilisers: Thanks to the advanced front-midship powertrain layout with the Renesis engine mounted behind the front wheel centre line, front stabilisers could be given an extremely efficient straight layout. Stabilisers are mounted to the sub-frame on the car body side, and both ends fitted by a ball-joint linkage to a lower suspension arm.

Newly Developed Multi-link Rear Suspension

The Mazda RX-8 Employs A New Multi-link (Five Links Per Side) Rear Suspension System: The long-link setup has been optimally arranged to maintain correct geometry and compliance to keep the RX-8's tyres in stable contact with the road at all times. This helps achieve superior handling stability, ride comfort and low road noise. The rear suspension was designed with a damper lever ratio of almost 1.0 to assure compliance on all kinds of road surface and generate damping force even with the slightest of piston strokes.

Coil springs are located below the floor and spring lateral force against the damper rod has been lowered to minimise friction. As with the front suspension, gas-filled monotube shocks with a large diameter piston are used for the rear suspension. The rear suspension also uses a newly-developed six point rubber mount system for the sub-frame. This arrangement assures rigid support for the links as well as a more comfortable ride and low road noise.

Optimal Layout Of Links And Dampers: Key to the success of the RX-8's multi-link suspension are the types of link used and their optimised location relative to the dampers.

1. Compliance Toe Control: The rear dampers are attached to the car body at the top and bottom on the hot-forged aluminium hub carrier. The damper's centre line (damper axis) intersects the hypothetical king pin axis on the outer side and aft of it, as determined by the layout of the five suspension links.

With this suspension geometry, the damper reaction force to the jounce and rebound of the rear wheels generates a moment that keeps the wheel oriented to the inside of its advancing direction of travel, with the hypothetical king pin axis as its centre (toe in). Incorporating toe control in this way helps to maintain tenacious and stable tyre grip at all times.

2. Compliance Camber Control: Forces pushing the hub carrier joint section towards the outside of the car body - in the negative camber direction - always acts on the upper and lower lateral links. This is due to the positioning of the damper. With this arrangement, and since the rubber bushing at the mount point between the lateral link and the sub-frame is always pushed towards the link side. The insensitive region of the bushing, close to its centre, is not used. The result is minimised response lag to steering inputs and reduction of parasitic movements of the wheels in response to external disturbances.

At 289.6 mm the upper lateral link is 76 mm longer than the double wishbone's upper arm on the RX-7. The lower lateral link's length, at 529mm, is 173mm longer than the lower arm on the RX-7. In particular, extending the lower lateral link reduces torsional load on the sub-frame mount bushings during jounce and rebound of a rear wheel, thereby achieving a smoother link action.

Six Point Rubber Mount Rear Sub-Frame: The sub-frame (unified welded structure) on which the rear suspension is mounted, comprises two boomerang-shaped members, to which cross members are bolted fore and aft. Each boomerang-shaped member is fitted with three zero stopper clearance rubber mounts laid out in the form of a 3-dimensional triangle, located at the front, middle and rear. This innovative construction assures high camber stiffness to resist twisting of the sub-frame due to lateral force inputs and allows use of more pliant rubber mounts. The results are enhanced handling stability, suppressed vibration transmission, low road noise and a more comfortable ride.

Forward-inclined Roll Axis Layout: With the RX-8, Mazda pursued a natural roll feel, setting the roll centre height at 68mm for the front and 96mm for the rear suspension version to produce a forward-inclined roll axis. Additionally, to achieve linear roll characteristics and improve convergence, this layout reduces roll centre height changes against wheel stroke changes.

Rack Drive Electric Power Steering: The RX-8's power steering, which conveys extremely accurate feedback on road surface conditions, incorporates a torque sensor on the pinion shaft and operates by an electric motor on the rack. The computer controlled power assisted steering is speed-sensitive.

Large Ventilated Disc Brakes

The RX-8 inherits the same brake system design concept as that introduced on the Mazda6, with additional sports tuning for higher performance driving. The system features a low pedal stroke ratio and small diameter master cylinder. Reducing the stroke helps maintain controllability at the start of brake action and achieves brake characteristics that enhance the feeling of deceleration as soon as the brake pedal is used.

Australian-specification cars have 18-inch aluminium alloy wheels and are equipped with race-proven 323mm ventilated front discs, assuring plenty of stopping power.

The disc rotor has more ribs than that used on the previous RX-7, to help reduce fade.

The rear brake calipers are equipped with over-adjust prevention mechanism that deactivates the brake pad adjustment function when brake pressure exceeds a predetermined level. This helps ensure consistent, strong braking performances during fast driving.

The Mazda RX-8's pillarless Freestyle Door System delivers a standard of side impact safety comparable with a conventional four-door sedan with centre pillars. It achieves this through extensive reinforcement of the inside of the rear doors and significantly improved body side strength.

The RX-8 is also equipped with a driver and passenger side SRS airbag featuring dual-stage deployment, as well as curtain and side airbags (six airbags in total). In addition, the car has an intrusion-minimising brake pedal to help reduce foot and lower leg injuries in a frontal collision.

Mazda also incorporates safety features that help reduce injury to pedestrians. For instance, the car's aluminium bonnet has a cone-type construction to absorb and cushion impacts in the event of a car/pedestrian accident.

Active safety is provided by large diameter disc brakes controlled by an ABS system, while all RX-8s feature DSC anti-skid control, giving drivers the full benefit of the car's dynamic sports car capabilities.

On the environmental front, the RX-8's new Renesis engine delivers improved fuel economy over previous rotary-powered models and fewer exhaust gas emissions.

Quick Reference

• The RX-8 features large diameter ventilated brakes front and rear for class-leading stopping performance
• The RX-8 is equipped with an Anti-lock Brake System and Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) as standard
• Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), which helps correct unwanted slides, is standard. It's the first time this system, which can be switched off, has been offered on a Mazda
• The DSC system also incorporates traction control, helping to reduce wheelspin on slippery surfaces
• Incorporating Mazda's MAIDAS body structure and Triple H frame body construction, the RX-8 provides class-leading crash safety protection
• The RX-8's centre pillarless body delivers the same standard of side impact protection as a conventional car
• All RX-8s come standard with new-generation dual stage inflation front airbags, front seat-mounted side airbags and curtain airbags (a total of six)
• The front seatbelts feature pretensioners and load limiters and all seating positions get a lap/sash seatbelt
• An intrusion minimising brake pedal moves away from the driver and towards the footwell if the front of the car deforms during a severe impact, helping to reduce the chance of lower leg injuries
• The integrated front seat headrests have been designed to minimise whiplash
• The two rear seats feature ISOFIX child seat mountings and top tether anchor points
• Impact absorbing trim has been incorporated in the RX-8's pillars and roof sides, reducing the chance of secondary head strike (the curtain airbags provide initial protection) during side impacts
• A V-shaped brace behind the rear seats prevents cargo intruding into the cabin during a frontal collision
• The RX-8's aluminium bonnet features an impact absorbing structure, substantially reducing the risk of injury to a pedestrian during a collision
• The next-generation Renesis engine's side intake/side exhaust porting, high-efficiency exhaust system and catalytic converter combine to give the Mazda RX-8 dramatically improved fuel economy and cleaner emissions
• Australian specification RX-8s meet the strict Euro Stage III emission standards that do not come into law here until 2005 for new models and 2006 for existing vehicles
• Like the Mazda6 and Mazda2, the RX-8 has been designed to minimise low speed accident damage, which helps ensure a low insurance rating. The RX-8's insurance premium is close to 40 per cent below that of the RX-7
• Service times have also been cut substantially with the total service time required by the RX-8 over the first three years slashed by 22 per cent compared with the rotary-powered RX-7 and by more than 40 per cent compared with Mazda's previous flagship model, the Millenia

In Detail

Safety

Class-leading Stopping Distances & Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)

All Australian-specification RX-8's feature a Sports suspension package that incorporates large diameter ventilated disc brakes all round (323mm front, 302mm rear), with the front disc rotors containing more ventilation ribs than those of the RX-7. Use of a single 10-inch brake booster assures a high servo limit. These technologies combine to give the RX-8 class-leading braking distances with minimum fade.

The RX-8 is also equipped with a four-wheel Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) and Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) as standard. And for the first time on a Mazda, there is Dynamic Stability Control (DSC). Brake Assist is not used on the RX-8, in order to preserve the direct, linear brake feel demanded of a genuine sports car.

ABS governs braking action on all four wheels, to achieve stable braking from the time the brakes are applied until the vehicle stops. When the car is loaded with four passengers, placing extra weight on the rear wheels, EBD balances braking force to implement stable deceleration and stopping over a shorter distance.

DSC combines the functions of ABS and traction control, exercising control over engine power output as well as optimal brake control on all four wheels. The system maintains a stable vehicle attitude when cornering on slippery road surfaces or during an emergency avoidance manoeuvres.

What's more, DSC can be switched off, allowing drivers full control for advanced driving techniques such as drift manoeuvres on a racing circuit.

Advanced Impact Protection

Although the Mazda RX-8 eliminates centre pillars to realise a wide door-opening area, the RX-8 achieves supreme standards of safety through the incorporation of Mazda's tough body structure, which has been designed to withstand impact from any direction. Thanks to its extremely rigid body, the RX-8 attains world standards in frontal and rear-end collisions, while also achieving the side impact resistance of a conventional four-door sedan.

Frontal Collisions: The high-rigidity body utilises crushable zones to efficiently absorb crash energy in a collision. Triple-H cabin construction - an innovative Mazda body feature that fiercely resists deformation during a crash - features three H-shaped beams reinforcing the floor, sides and roof.

To absorb the impact of a frontal collision, the RX-8 is equipped with a high tensile strength octagonal section steel beam mounted at the forward end of the front frame. To suppress cabin deformation during a frontal offset collision, the body distributes crash energy in three directions from the cabin aft position using a three-pronged structure. In addition, it has a ring-shaped reinforcement to strengthen the opening area.

Additionally, to prevent the front wheels from impacting the cabin during a frontal crash, the RX-8 is equipped with wheel stopper reinforcements. This safety device halts rearward movement of the wheels to prevent cabin deformation.

Side Impacts: Mazda made all-out efforts to give the RX-8's centre pillarless body structure the same safety performance as a conventional four-door sedan. To suppress cabin deformation during a side impact, it is necessary to distribute the crash energy that is normally absorbed by a centre pillar over the entire body of the vehicle. To do this, Mazda installed high-strength, vertical steel pipe reinforcements in the rear doors. A door latch mechanism locks these reinforcements into the body at their top and bottom ends and, when locked in position, the pipes act as built-in pillars that exhibit greater strength than even conventional centre body pillars.

Side impact bars are optimally positioned inside the doors to efficiently distribute crash energy over the vehicle's body. Additionally, to channel impact energy on the doors through the side sills, the front and rear doors are equipped with catcher pins in three locations along their bottom edges.

The structure surrounding the door opening is also bolstered by ring-shaped reinforcements throughout its length. Roof gussets and roof reinforcements offer added support and the floor is reinforced with two cross-members. These structural measures distribute crash energy efficiently throughout the entire body, thereby reducing cabin deformation during a crash.

Rear-end Impacts: To effectively absorb energy in crushable zones during a rear-end collision, rear side members are straight and have a large cross-section. Dual phase steel sheet with a high-energy absorption rate is employed to progressively deform under substantial loads. The fuel tank area is protected from intrusions by the high-mount backbone frame, cross members and rear side members.

Six Airbags As Standard

Dual Stage Deployment Driver's Side SRS Airbag & SRS Passenger's Side Airbag: The RX-8 features a driver and passenger SRS airbag system that deploys in two stages. A sensor judges the severity of the collision and chooses which of the two airbag inflation stages to use, thereby assuring that the airbag will help protect the driver to the best of its ability.

Curtain & Front Side Airbags: Curtain airbags are standard and deploy over the side windows in the front and rear of the cabin, reducing the risk of head injuries during a crash. Side airbags mounted in each front seat help protect passengers against injury to the thorax.

Pretensioner Mechanism (Front Seatbelts): The pretensioner mechanism takes up slack in the seatbelt to firmly hold occupants in place at the moment of collision and reduce forward movement of the passenger's body.

Load Limiter Mechanism (Front Seatbelts): Front seatbelts are fitted with a load limiter that operates after the pretensioner. During a collision, if the seat belt load exceeds a predetermined value, the load limiter releases the seatbelt in a controlled manner to reduce pressure on the wearer's chest and minimise the possibility of seatbelt-induced injury.

Other Advanced Safety Features

Intrusion-minimising brake pedal: To reduce the chance of leg injury to the driver due to brake pedal intrusion, the RX-8 is equipped with a intrusion-minimising brake pedal consisting of the main bracket, a sub bracket and a catcher plate. During regular operation, the main bracket and sub bracket are restrained by the catcher plate, but during a collision the catcher plate rotates and the top end of the brake pedal is pushed down by the sub bracket, releasing the pedal away from the driver's foot.

Front Seats With Reduced Whiplash: Front seat headrests are optimally located with respect to the passenger's head, while the seatback features whiplash-reducing construction designed to reduce the effect of impacts on the upper body and minimise the force exerted on the passenger's neck during a rear-end collision.

ISO-FIX Child Seat Anchors With Top Tether: Child seats can be fitted simply and securely to each rear seat, with a tether attached to the top of the child seat helping to minimise any chance that a child seat will tumble forward in a collision.

Soft Impact-Absorbing Interior: Envisaging the possibility of secondary impacts between a passenger's head and the cabin interior during a crash, Mazda gave the pillars and roof side trim a specially-developed impact-absorbing structure.

Diagonal Brace Prevents Luggage Intrusion: The bulkhead between the cabin and boot is reinforced by a V-shaped diagonal brace that helps prevent luggage and other articles in the boot from intruding into the cabin during a frontal collision.

Hood Structure To Protect Pedestrian's Head: In addition to large clearance between the hood and engine, the hood also features impact-absorbing cone structure. Inclusion of multi-cones - multiple large indentations in the hood's inner panel - assures substantial energy absorption capacity even as the thickness of the aluminium sheet is reduced as a weight-saving measure. The result is a substantially lower risk of injury to a pedestrian in the event of a car-pedestrian collision.

Powerful Headlamps: Projector-style headlamps, which give an impressive spread of light, are standard on the RX-8, while High Intensity gas Discharge headlamps - complete with a jet-wash cleaning system to ensure optimal performance even in poor weather - and front driving lights are fitted to Leather Pack models. The RX-8 is the first Mazda to be sold with gas discharge lamps in Australia.

Security

The RX-8 is protected by the latest generation rolling code security system, with the identification code sent from the transmitter to the control unit automatically changed each time the transmitter is used. The RX-8 is fitted with an immobilizer that meets EEC standards.

Only the front doors have locks as the rear doors cannot be used until the front doors have been opened. For further security the doors are automatically relocked if they remain unopened for 30 seconds after being unlocked.

The door locks also employ a deadlock function, preventing the doors being opened from the inside should a thief break-in through a window.

The boot-through box, which sits between the two back seats can be locked with the main key, allowing valuables to be kept inside the boot even when the car is driven by car park attendants.

An optional alarm is available from Mazda dealers.

Cost Of Ownership

Like the Mazda6 and Mazda2, the RX-8 has been designed to minimise low speed accident damage, while competitive parts pricing helps ensures a low insurance rating. The RX-8's insurance premium is close to 40 per cent below that of the RX-7.

Service times have also been cut substantially with the total service time required by the RX-8 over the first three years slashed by 22 per cent over the rotary-powered RX-7 and by more than 40 per cent compared with Mazda's previous flagship model, the Millenia

Warranty

All Mazda passenger cars and the Tribute 4WD wagon are protected by a three year/unlimited kilometre warranty, while RX-8 buyers will also enjoy the added convenience of 24-hour roadside assistance for the life of the warranty. RX-8 buyers will also be invited to an advanced driving course.

Multifaceted Environment Protection

Improved Fuel Economy And Emissions

The next-generation Renesis engine's side intake/side exhaust porting, high-efficiency exhaust system and catalytic converter combine to give the Mazda RX-8 dramatically improved fuel economy and lower exhaust gas emissions than the previous rotary engine.

Australian specification engines meet the strict Euro Stage III emission standards that do not come into law here until 2005 for new models and 2006 for models already on sale before 2005.

Promoting Recycling And Reducing Environmental Impact

Mazda exercises a strict recycling policy for both metal and plastic parts. While using easily recycled thermoplastics for interior plastic parts wherever possible, Mazda also improves the separability of plastics and composites used in the floor and other areas. These measures have resulted in a possible recycling ratio of over 90% (the industry standard) for Mazda.

The company also recover plastics from damaged bumpers and other components of used cars and recycle the materials in the rear splash shields and other parts, with the aim of conserving resources. To reduce materials harmful to the environment, Mazda has eliminated the use of lead in the fuel tank, harnesses and other electrical equipment. By 2005 the company intends to reduce the use of lead by up to two-thirds (compared with the rate of use in 1996), keeping compliant with the industry standard in Japan.

Harmony With The Environment

Mazda continually implements activities geared to environmental protection, and to assure the transparency of its operations is actively advancing an environmental management system in accordance with ISO 14001 standards.

The factory that manufactures the RX-8 received ISO 14001 certification in June 2000. Another Mazda plant in Hofu received local government certification in September 1998, and underwent further inspection in September 1999. Advances in environmental management have earned Mazda ISO 14001 certification at all its R&D and production facilities throughout Japan.

For further information contact:
Alastair Doak
National Public Relations Manager
Phone: (03) 8540 1962
Mobile: 0418 626 329
Email: adoak@mazda.com.au