2010 Mazda RX-8

NEW FOR 2010:

- GS trim line discontinued

- Exterior colours: Metropolitan Grey added; Electric Blue Mica, Sunlight Silver, Galaxy Grey, Diamond Grey and Brilliant Black deleted

For 2010, the Mazda RX-8 reduces its trim lines, with the discontinuation of the base GS model. The only other changes are to the exterior colours.

Unique among mainstream Canadian models, the RX-8 uses a 1.3-litre rotary engine, also known as a Wankel engine. There are two trim levels, the R3 and GT, both of which come with a six-speed manual transmission, where the engine produces 232 horsepower. The GT can also be optioned with a no-charge six-speed automatic, with a resulting drop to 212 horsepower. Torque remains the same at 159 lb-ft with either transmission.

The RX-8 looks like a coupe, but small, rear-hinged doors provide access to the two-passenger rear seat.

Features on the sport-oriented R3 include 19-inch alloy wheels, automatic climate control, heated mirrors, automatic self-levelling xenon headlamps with washers, raised rear spoiler, fog lights, rain-sensing wipers, six-CD premium Bose stereo with auxiliary input and steering wheel-mounted controls, cruise control, keyless entry and start, illuminated vanity mirrors, auto-dimming rearview mirror, garage door opener, Bluetooth connectivity, aluminum pedals, lightweight Recaro leather seats, floor mats, leather-wrapped tilt steering wheel with red stitching, exterior temperature display, and locking glovebox. The R3 also includes an exclusive sport suspension with Bilstein dampers and a urethane foam-filled front suspension cross member.

The GT adds 18-inch alloy wheels, sport-tuned suspension, power sunroof, Sirius satellite-ready stereo, heated leather seats, and eight-way power driver's adjustment with memory. The GT adds aluminum pedals and a lip spoiler when equipped with the manual transmission; unlike the R3, it can be optioned with a navigation system for an additional $2,595.