Mazda RX-8 will be pulled from the European market

According to the latest reports from Auto Motor und Sport Sweden, it appears that the Mazda RX-8 will be pulled out from the European market due to the fact that the model is too expensive and cannot meet the Euro 5 standards.

These words came from Joseph Alois Schmid, the head of Mazda Germany. For those who don’t know, the rotary engine found on the current version capable to develop 231 hp and 211 Nm of torque, providing a top speed of 234 km/h.
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freeagent - 4/15/2010 11:40:39 AM

+4 Boost

The RX-8 needs to be retired anyway and replaced with a new RX-7. My suggestion is to leverage a common platform with the Miata and basically create a coupe version with the rotary, bespoke exterior and higher grade interior.

bmwdrvr - 4/15/2010 11:43:25 AM

+5 Boost

This thing is just no longer competetive in general all its would be competetion has long since moved well beyond but it continues to one of the more expensive cars, one of the slowest, and has pretty poor fuel economy given its performance.

tattedtwice - 4/15/2010 2:55:30 PM

+4 Boost

I really admire Mazda's commitment to it and the rotary engine. Unlike SOME japanese companies that'll pull the plug on sporty models because they dont sell 50k a month, I like that they stand behind it, since it's important to their image.

That said, Mazda, speed up the replacement, it's WAY overdue!

rxh8me9000 - 4/15/2010 6:37:02 PM

+3 Boost

Its not all about speed and gas mileage. Drive one. If you've ever been in a S2000 you know what I am talking about. The gearbox,handling,comfort,smooth power delivery and sound of 9,000 rpm can not be compared to anything in its class. By the way I never knew someone who bought a sports car and cared about mpg.

Gambit - 4/16/2010 5:48:35 PM

+1 Boost

hmm...i was expecting much worse comments bashing the RX-8, but as an owner for 6 years, these are pretty fair. It's a great ride, but not the fastest thing in the world, and Mazda has waited way too long to get a replacement out there