New RX-8 for next year, could this be true?(READ)
03-11-2007 | 12:37 PM
#26
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The MX-5 Miata is losing its footing in sales as well, and despite how well it drives and handles, visually, it's in need of a big redesign. The Solstice, Sky/Red-Line, Demon, etc., all look much more stylish whereas the MX-5 looks tired and uninspired after being around so long.
03-11-2007 | 03:18 PM
#27
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I agree the Miata is getting a bit old. Other then a facelift its what about 18 years old now?
I think thats part of what Mazda marlketing is challenged to decide. They've got some sexy designs sitting around and with the newcomers to the market along with a stronger potential market it's probably a tough decision.
Generally Mazda makes long term commitments on product strategy. At the lower volumes they've typically been that was easy - however they're getting bigger and those growing pains could begin to impact the length of term on product strategies.
I think thats part of what Mazda marlketing is challenged to decide. They've got some sexy designs sitting around and with the newcomers to the market along with a stronger potential market it's probably a tough decision.
Generally Mazda makes long term commitments on product strategy. At the lower volumes they've typically been that was easy - however they're getting bigger and those growing pains could begin to impact the length of term on product strategies.
03-11-2007 | 03:54 PM
#28
rotary courage
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Actually the MX-5 was completely new for 2006, and got an incredible power hardtop for 2007 which doesn't take away any trunk space. And it outsold the Solstice in worldwide sales.
As for a Mazdaspeed RX-8, we've got the Tokyo Auto Show in the fall and NAIAS two months after that. If Mazda doesn't announce a MS 8 and either of these events, then we can finally put these rumors to rest.
As for a Mazdaspeed RX-8, we've got the Tokyo Auto Show in the fall and NAIAS two months after that. If Mazda doesn't announce a MS 8 and either of these events, then we can finally put these rumors to rest.
03-11-2007 | 03:55 PM
#29
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From: Orleans, MA/ JC, NJ
Originally Posted by kartweb
According to the schedule 2010 will introduce a new model, but what year that model will actually be released is another story. Mazda has delayed the introduction of new model years for the 8 for whatever reasons since 2005. On the other hand, they advanced the release of some models - I bought a 2007 CX7 a month after I bought a new 2005 RX8.
There may be a new 2 seater Rotary released in early 2008 - the key word is may. There are some concerns with market share over the Miata as the Pontiac Solstice and Dodge Demon are positioned squarely against it. The Solstice is overpriced and the Demon has a potent motor package option (300 HP turbo).
One thing thats driving sales of the "MG" class of sports cars are the gas prices. That sort of puts the rotary at a disadvantage. Mazda already has an excellent motor in the 2.3 and they certainly have the turbo packages figured out. From purely a profit level, putting a MS Miata on the market would probably pay off the most short term.
As far as the next 8, we'll very likely be seeing a new evolution of rotary. I can't say if it belongs to Mazda, but someone has a contract with Kennametal to fabricate what surely look like a rotor from Powdered Metal - a titanium composite. It could just be a pump component but it sure does look like a rotor - only maybe a tad larger then the 13B size.
Along the same speculation line is solving the issue of sequential shutdown. Using the Lamda Sensor technology won't allow a motor with no valves to do this since it pumps raw air into the exhaust. However our friends in Sweden (who originally developed the Lamda tech) have come up with something even better by measuring resistance across the plug after firing. I believe Saab began using this new system in 2006. The secret to sequential shutdown is it allows more charge per firing which increases pressure & efficiency. Tht may be exactly what the rotary needs to do some catch up to piston motors in regards to fuel consumption.
If Mazda is heading down that path (and it makes sense they would) we may see something like a 1600 - 1800 cc motor with 5 Lb rotors and sequential shutdown in 2010 - or 2009, or 2011, depending on when they actually release it.
In any event, by 2010 I'll need a new car. If Mazda doesn't have something really cool, I'm sure there will be plenty of well preserved used low mileage RX8's available.
There may be a new 2 seater Rotary released in early 2008 - the key word is may. There are some concerns with market share over the Miata as the Pontiac Solstice and Dodge Demon are positioned squarely against it. The Solstice is overpriced and the Demon has a potent motor package option (300 HP turbo).
One thing thats driving sales of the "MG" class of sports cars are the gas prices. That sort of puts the rotary at a disadvantage. Mazda already has an excellent motor in the 2.3 and they certainly have the turbo packages figured out. From purely a profit level, putting a MS Miata on the market would probably pay off the most short term.
As far as the next 8, we'll very likely be seeing a new evolution of rotary. I can't say if it belongs to Mazda, but someone has a contract with Kennametal to fabricate what surely look like a rotor from Powdered Metal - a titanium composite. It could just be a pump component but it sure does look like a rotor - only maybe a tad larger then the 13B size.
Along the same speculation line is solving the issue of sequential shutdown. Using the Lamda Sensor technology won't allow a motor with no valves to do this since it pumps raw air into the exhaust. However our friends in Sweden (who originally developed the Lamda tech) have come up with something even better by measuring resistance across the plug after firing. I believe Saab began using this new system in 2006. The secret to sequential shutdown is it allows more charge per firing which increases pressure & efficiency. Tht may be exactly what the rotary needs to do some catch up to piston motors in regards to fuel consumption.
If Mazda is heading down that path (and it makes sense they would) we may see something like a 1600 - 1800 cc motor with 5 Lb rotors and sequential shutdown in 2010 - or 2009, or 2011, depending on when they actually release it.
In any event, by 2010 I'll need a new car. If Mazda doesn't have something really cool, I'm sure there will be plenty of well preserved used low mileage RX8's available.
03-11-2007 | 07:10 PM
#30
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Originally Posted by The_Bark
The MX-5 Miata is losing its footing in sales as well, and despite how well it drives and handles, visually, it's in need of a big redesign. The Solstice, Sky/Red-Line, Demon, etc., all look much more stylish whereas the MX-5 looks tired and uninspired after being around so long.
The Saturn Sky (Opel Speedster) is many years (3) older that the NC MX-5,
as for the Solstice, yes it has a bigger *****, but the quality and drivablility does not come close to the 5.
03-11-2007 | 07:13 PM
#31
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Originally Posted by m477
Actually the MX-5 was completely new for 2006, and got an incredible power hardtop for 2007 which doesn't take away any trunk space. And it outsold the Solstice in worldwide sales.
As for a Mazdaspeed RX-8, we've got the Tokyo Auto Show in the fall and NAIAS two months after that. If Mazda doesn't announce a MS 8 and either of these events, then we can finally put these rumors to rest.
As for a Mazdaspeed RX-8, we've got the Tokyo Auto Show in the fall and NAIAS two months after that. If Mazda doesn't announce a MS 8 and either of these events, then we can finally put these rumors to rest.
I think Tokyo in October will be "VERRRRI INTERRESTINK"
03-11-2007 | 07:18 PM
#32
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From: Australia
Originally Posted by For Six
If this was going to happen that would be great, but you can never tell Mazda may go with an improved rotary or they could be stubborn about the whole thing. I havent gotten my 8 yet though the more I wait the more I crave it. The only issue I have about getting one is not being sure whats around the corner, I dont want to buy a new 8 and bam out of nowhere its announced that (for example) an MS 8 or a new model for the 8 is coming out. But I should probably just go out and buy one and worry about it when the time comes, if ever.
BUT, I can very much relate to your 8 purchase...
JUST DO IT!
03-12-2007 | 02:05 AM
#33
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Originally Posted by m477
As for a Mazdaspeed RX-8, we've got the Tokyo Auto Show in the fall and NAIAS two months after that. If Mazda doesn't announce a MS 8 and either of these events, then we can finally put these rumors to rest.
These rumors pop up every year and before every major auto show. It will only be put to rest when either the MS RX-8 is finally a reality or the current RX-8 is no more.
03-12-2007 | 10:32 AM
#35
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Originally Posted by kartweb
Along the same speculation line is solving the issue of sequential shutdown. .
i have been a couple of times. the thing is is the schedule on Japan MYs so its 2003-2008 or US MYs so its 2004-2009?.as far as sequential shutdown/displacement on demand- Mazda , as tight lipped as they are, they are quite clear when they arent doing something. They have stated clearly that they are not looking at DOD technology for the rotor at all.
03-12-2007 | 02:46 PM
#37
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Originally Posted by ASH8
WHAT! What a load of CRAP mate...
The Saturn Sky (Opel Speedster) is many years (3) older that the NC MX-5,
as for the Solstice, yes it has a bigger *****, but the quality and drivablility does not come close to the 5.
The Saturn Sky (Opel Speedster) is many years (3) older that the NC MX-5,
as for the Solstice, yes it has a bigger *****, but the quality and drivablility does not come close to the 5.
03-12-2007 | 03:26 PM
#38
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Originally Posted by RX-Hachi
These rumors pop up every year and before every major auto show. It will only be put to rest when either the MS RX-8 is finally a reality or the current RX-8 is no more.Any later and the Mazdaspeed version would be arriving at dealerships just months before the next gen, which of course isn't gonna happen.
Note that I'm not saying that I believe that there necessarily will be an MS 8, I'm just pointing out the obvious fact that by this time next year we will know for sure.
Last edited by m477; 03-12-2007 at 03:29 PM.
03-12-2007 | 03:37 PM
#39
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Originally Posted by The_Bark
I hope you're not arguing my opinion--that would be rather silly of you. My point is, everybody doesn't buy vehicles based on performance.... Just look at all the Mustangs out there--of course that doesn't explain style, either. Bad example. The Satury Sky debuted here, in the USA, just last year.
"The MX-5 Miata is losing its footing in sales as well, and despite how well it drives and handles, visually, it's in need of a big redesign. The Solstice, Sky/Red-Line, Demon, etc., all look much more stylish whereas the MX-5 looks tired and uninspired after being around so long."
How is the MX-5 (NC) tired after is been around for SO LONG...Its bloody new?..
I took the "performance issue" because your point was a little ignorant and SILLY!
And I TOTALLY agree with you that not everybody buys cars based on performance lone.... as one matures you appreciate other aspect of a car other than the size of its DONK.
03-12-2007 | 03:44 PM
#40
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Originally Posted by m477
It doesn't matter what rumors have come up before. If the next gen 8 is scheduled for ~2010, then after NAIAS 2008 is definitely the point where it's simply too late in the product cycle for a Mazdaspeed version in this generation. It's either going to happen soon or not at all. This really is it.
Any later and the Mazdaspeed version would be arriving at dealerships just months before the next gen, which of course isn't gonna happen.
Note that I'm not saying that I believe that there necessarily will be an MS 8, I'm just pointing out the obvious fact that by this time next year we will know for sure.
Any later and the Mazdaspeed version would be arriving at dealerships just months before the next gen, which of course isn't gonna happen.
Note that I'm not saying that I believe that there necessarily will be an MS 8, I'm just pointing out the obvious fact that by this time next year we will know for sure.
The MS Protoge and MS Miata both arrived very close to the end of their product cycles. This could happen again, especially if Mazda can leverage whatever engine technology used in the MS RX-8 for the next gen RX car.
03-12-2007 | 06:42 PM
#41
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Originally Posted by ASH8
This WHAT you said mate....
"The MX-5 Miata is losing its footing in sales as well, and despite how well it drives and handles, visually, it's in need of a big redesign. The Solstice, Sky/Red-Line, Demon, etc., all look much more stylish whereas the MX-5 looks tired and uninspired after being around so long."
How is the MX-5 (NC) tired after is been around for SO LONG...Its bloody new?..
I took the "performance issue" because your point was a little ignorant and SILLY!
And I TOTALLY agree with you that not everybody buys cars based on performance lone.... as one matures you appreciate other aspect of a car other than the size of its DONK.
"The MX-5 Miata is losing its footing in sales as well, and despite how well it drives and handles, visually, it's in need of a big redesign. The Solstice, Sky/Red-Line, Demon, etc., all look much more stylish whereas the MX-5 looks tired and uninspired after being around so long."
How is the MX-5 (NC) tired after is been around for SO LONG...Its bloody new?..
I took the "performance issue" because your point was a little ignorant and SILLY!
And I TOTALLY agree with you that not everybody buys cars based on performance lone.... as one matures you appreciate other aspect of a car other than the size of its DONK.
I meant the Miata in general. I see lots of them here in Las Vegas, and other than the headlights, I'd have a hard time, in passing, noting the differences in the models because so little has changed. On one hand, it's the true sign of a classic. That being said, I still think it looks tired, sort of like how the last version of the Acura NSX looking basically like the first version. As other automobile makers develop their competition and push the envelope with more aggressive styling and power, I just think it's going to be hard for the Miata to keep up.
I haven't driven a Saturn Red Line Sky and can't speak of its performance, but with its style and power, I would definately be looking at that over a MX-5 with the retractable hardtop as there's a 100hp difference for about the same price. But that's just me, and I'm happy with my RX8.
03-14-2007 | 04:53 PM
#42
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The MX-5 needs a new front end. The slotty headlights do nothing for the car, but other than that I think it is very sharp and a fun car.
I wouldn't trust anything a dealer worker said to me. They are some of the last to know on the planet.
Mazda may try to be tight lipped, but look at the Mazda 6 spy pics on the Web....if there was a new 8 coming out very soon it would have been spotted somewhere.
I wouldn't trust anything a dealer worker said to me. They are some of the last to know on the planet.
Mazda may try to be tight lipped, but look at the Mazda 6 spy pics on the Web....if there was a new 8 coming out very soon it would have been spotted somewhere.
03-14-2007 | 05:59 PM
#44
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Mazda seems to put out a MS version of the car, just before a new version comes out. It happened with the Miata and then with the 6. If/When we see a MS 8, expect a updated model to come out in a year or two.
03-14-2007 | 11:02 PM
#46
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The only people at dealerships that know things ahead of time are going to be the owner, operations manager, key service managers, and that is only at strategic dealerships.
As for all the speculation, I think Tokyo or Detroit 08 may be the best guess at any RX news.
As for all the speculation, I think Tokyo or Detroit 08 may be the best guess at any RX news.
03-15-2007 | 07:16 AM
#47
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Originally Posted by jmerc
The only people at dealerships that know things ahead of time are going to be the owner, operations manager, key service managers, and that is only at strategic dealerships.
As for all the speculation, I think Tokyo or Detroit 08 may be the best guess at any RX news.
As for all the speculation, I think Tokyo or Detroit 08 may be the best guess at any RX news.
Will see.... i am like you i don't trust sales men or women as far as i can throw them, but Bill is not your typical sale guy. He's been with Mazda since the 80's,working at the same dealership,etc. I went into knowing very little about the 8 , i did research before i test drove it.... and Bill was the one to give me a full blown 10-15 min history lesson about the rotary before we even test drove the RX-8. He told me pro's and cons about the rotary , etc. Bill isn't your typical sales guy... i have a hunch that next year we may be seeing a new RX-8.
Or a refresh to say the least.
03-15-2007 | 07:44 AM
#49
He's as bad as Can
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From: Manchester, NJ
Unless Bill reads this board he still will not get RX-8 news as fast as we do. There are people here from all over the world that have very good Mazda connections and have provided us info before Mazda Corp. Bill very well might be quite knowledgeable in rotary HISTORY. Your thread was claiming he knows something about its future.
03-15-2007 | 10:22 AM
#50
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The Prototype
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Originally Posted by expo1
Unless Bill reads this board he still will not get RX-8 news as fast as we do. There are people here from all over the world that have very good Mazda connections and have provided us info before Mazda Corp. Bill very well might be quite knowledgeable in rotary HISTORY. Your thread was claiming he knows something about its future.
