Automotive News is reporting that Mazda has stopped production of its RX-8 sports car due to lackluster sales and ever tighter global emissions standards. The Japanese automaker was forced to remove the model from European showrooms last year after it failed to meet emissions standards, and the company says that it simply can't justify continuing to manufacture the vehicle without sales in the old country.

According to the report, production wrapped up in Hiroshima, Japan in July, and global sales will finish up this year. While this may be the end for the rotary sports car in the near-term, Mazda has made it clear that the manufacturer isn't giving up on its rotary heritage any time soon.

 

too manys mpgs needed.

 

Sad, but hopefully the RX-9* will be spectacular!


*whatever it maybe called.

 

Could they just do an electric version then an RX-9 3 rotor to equal things out?

 

Hybrid rotary? Should be interesting.

 

I have to say I won't miss it in the least. Never liked the looks, performance was subpar. Mileage was abysmal. It really had zero redeeming qualities. I'm surprised that it made it this long.

 

There is some speculation that the next rotory may implement hybrid technology. In what form, i don't think anyone outside of mazda knows yet.
http://green.autoblog.com/2011/05/24...h-from-toyota/

should be interesting to find out. Some of the early early speculation was about regenerative skin/paint, suspension, and braking. The only thing is, what will those recharge & power and thats the kicker... An electric motor would be great to help the rotory in the two areas it lacks, torque and emissions, but will it be awd? or will there be some complex shindig to send it all to the rear wheels. Lastly, what kind of battery life can we expect and I can't imagine a battery+motor setup will be good for the handling. that ---- will be pretty porky by the end of the safety crap.

http://www.mazdas247.com/forum/showt...y-Mazda-(RX-9-)

http://www.mazdas247.com/forum/showt...absorbant-skin

Yep, Hybrid. just can't get away from it.

 

A rotary was never a good choice for such a heavy vehicle as the rx-8 due to lack of torque and poor mileage. In a vehicle smaller or lighter than a Miata the mileage would be much better and the performance would be decent.

 

I find it funny that you can get a RX-8 for 1/3 of the price of an excellent condition 3rd gen RX-7.

 

You can roll with this:

Or you can roll with that: