No official changes as of yet, stay tuned as this thread will be updated.

its to keep people from starting new threads like they have been for the last 2 weeks.

Here is the real deal current info for 2006-

There has not been any changes announced yet. There also has not been any announcemnt saying nothing is changing. In other words -Mazda hasnt told anyone anything yet.

speculation- the 2006 cars will probably all come with the updated battery and starter.

Confirmed for 2006 RX-8- new NAV. the new unit available will be the same as whatis comign in the Mazda5. You can check it out at a dealer near you soon. Voice activated. That is all for now.

Looks that way. I think anything else at this point is pure speculation.C'mon we still aren't sure what the "R" flash does. And if by the time anything new is reported we'll have the luxury of sifting through 25 pages of BS to figure it out. :D
Maybe the thread should stay a sticky and be closed where only certain individual can post to it. This will cut down on the non-topic chatter and reduce the overall speculation. A email address (or PM) to the proper person would allow for the general public to add news and details as they arise.

good point. ill lock the thread until i confirm the rest

Additions:

- 6-speed Sport mode AT w/ 212hp
- Intelligent key-entry (keyless entry & start)
- Galaxy Grey exterior color

Deletion:

- Nordic Green color exterior color
- Titanium Grey exterior color


I dont know if this stuff has been posted, but here ya go

Of course titanium grey will still be available but it's now called galaxy grey... ;)

And since the new HP rating is now 212, you can assume that it is at least 198 hp ( which it already is suppose to be)... :p

six speed sports mode means it comes with six spokes on the wheels and a spoiler... :rolleyes:

We're apparently getting Galaxy Grey here too.....looks a bit dirty??? They are going to drop Titanium for it.

hmm interesting

galaxy gray just looks like a darker (dirtier?? LOL) titanium gray IMO :D

6-speed auto sounds logical, using the low-powered engine because the new auto probably still can't handle 9000rpm :D

well i cant confirm anything but the colors right now. but i have been expecting the others so i dont doubt them;) here is the color list for the US. it appears we are getting one the canadians are not.... Phantom Blue Mica-

PS- this just shows that Sunlight Silver is the better color vs. Tit Grey :D:D:D:D:D

my source is from the company. if you dont trust me just wait and see

oh i want to point out that nez is getting his info directly from the source. dont let it bother you nez- you've got to remember that alot of people post thigns they heard "from a freind who knows a guy who was at teh car show and heard some guy saying this so it must be true". your canadian source is quicker to update than my US source apparently . thanks

Phantom Blue! man i have mixed feelings about that color... looks almost like torquoise lol


there wont be any Phantom Blue Mica by the way

oh i want to point out that nez is getting his info directly from the source. dont let it bother you nez- you've got to remember that alot of people post thigns they heard "from a freind who knows a guy who was at teh car show and heard some guy saying this so it must be true". your canadian source is quicker to update than my US source apparently . thanks

no problem :)

there wont be any Phantom Blue Mica by the way


not in canda;) check the 2006 RX-8 color palette i posted- Its for the US;)

NEZ: Didn't hear anything about the nav?

yes. moonroof & NAV are the options :)

not in canda;) check the 2006 RX-8 color palette i posted- Its for the US;)

my bad :D

more detail info

6-speed sport mode AT
HP: 212 @ 7200 rpm
torque: 159 @ 5000 rpm
redline: 7500
displacement 654cc x 2

Hate to beat this into the ground NEZ, but is it the same(optional) nav from the Mazda5(and new miata, i think)...it has an additional button on the steering wheel for voice commands...i played with it in the 5 and would be a bit dissapointed if i couldn't get it in the 06 rx8.

Is that $hit comin to the rx8?!?!

i'm not sure about US, but in Canada on the Mazda 5 we have no Nav system.

i'll keep you posted if i find out anything about the voice commands in rx-8. my guess is it probably wont have it

ah^^ see the Mazda5 here has nav and its the new voice activated one :) you guys up north are gettingthe short end of the stick. no new mica blue and no navs on your Mazda5......

I've never seen the production or sales #s for tranny type across all RX-8s though...I'd love to see this.

strange as it may seem Mazda doesnt collect sales figure break downs like that. They collect total sales only. No one at MNAO is able to give you sales figures broke down by color or tranny. Production is mainly based on re-orders from dealers after intial allocations. although i suspect some keeps track of ORDERS of certain colors so they can decide which to keep and drop. Alsoi have a feeling(unverified) that soem of the paint color choices are due to the switch to the new 3 layer wet paint system. Some color formulas may not work and had to be changed etc.


Zoom is there any chance you are wrong (siting anxiously with fingers crossed)...

no i posted the actual 2006 color document. unless they change their collective minds those are the 2006 MY color choices. of course there could always be a special edition color added later....

Well I'm very disappointed in this news...this 6 speed + low power engine configuration is really how the RX-8 should've came out originally. I was really hoping the AT would finally be equipped with the hi power engine + 6 speed transmission for 2006, and not just a transmission upgrade. I was hedging on upgrading if they did produce such a beast, but this just totally sinks my hopes.

I also absolutely love the titanium gray color, and really wanted to have my current RX-8 in that color, except it was pretty hard when I was buying to get any RX-8, and silver was all they had...and even that I had to buy right off the ship. Why in the world would they discontinue a color that's actually popular??

vertigo i believe i said above i believe it is due to changing paint formulas because of the implementation of the new paint system. i bet that is truly the reason.

second- im not sure what you are saying about the at +engine configuration. we dont know yet whether this at 6speed is only on the low power or not. with the higher HP output i suspect it MIGHT be on the hi power motor with a reduced redline. thats just a guess mind you.

Not dull, but color-less. 4 out of 7 of the exteriors are gray-scale.

I'd drop one of the 2 grays and insert a light color.

but that hasnt changed from the previous model year :confused:

ah but that is soemthign they have been working on. see the deal is they were always going to make the 4 port engine. they initially planned to offer the AT on the Hi-power engine. however the high rpms kept blowing the Tconverters. so they had to pu tit in the "standard" power only. the other issue was one of money. the program was quickly running out of development money. they didnt have the money neccessary to develop an AT with 5 or 6 speeds. and the only available AT that would fit in the car when mounted to the engine was the 4at we got. it realy came down to time and money. so they have been working this issue from before launch but still only have limited resources for developement compared to oterh companies. Ford may have Deep Pockets but Mazda isnt allowed to reach in them much.

i would think so therm- shift points are in the pcm etc

source of which? information from Nez is comign from Mazda Canada. Color chart of US colors is from MazdaUSA. 2006 should around october

Small update sort of- All MY2006 info for the rest of the Mazda Lineup is out as of Monday. So it shouldnt be too much longer before we have the 2006 RX-8 info.

just wanted to let you know i have not forgotten;)

Morning All! Thought I'd check in and see what's going on over here, been having most of my time taken up by MZ-5 & MX-5 stuff lately.

Finally put the Spec Decks up for the '06 and this month will be our first allocation for ordering them. '05's are still being built this month, so don't expect '06 production to start until late Sept. at the earliest. Should see them in the States late Oct or Nov. Going to try and download the Spec Decks for you. Hard specs on the engine etc. have not been updated as of today.

*reads through the specification pdf*

hmm, does the 4 port engine have Variable Dynamic Effect Intake System (VDEIS)?? Because in the spec sheet, both the auto and the manual has VDEIS!

I think we have found our answer, the 'new' auto engine is indeed a de-tuned 6-port engine from the manual :D

Hmm--leather/alcantara seating for the shinkas--interesting. I'd like to test drive the 6spd autos. Anybody have any idea on how fast a 6spd auto with 212HP will be?

also, from the options list, it looks like now you can order 'Shinka Package' RX-8's in all available colors??

Awww! Does this mean the nav isn't the new one available in the Mazda5?

:( :( :( :( :( :(

Oh well, the key is cool-ish.

Well the Copper Red is the only color available with the Shinka. What color is that?

I never realized that the shinka had "urethane injected suspension cross members"...

Does this simply increase rigidity? Is it noticiable in the actualy driving dynamics of the car?

mainly for vibration and sound dampening, IIRC.

Well the Copper Red is the only color available with the Shinka. What color is that?

yes what is that? Copper Red does not sound like the current Shinka color

methinks copper red looks similar to the Blazing Copper on the Mazda6's, just redder? :D

Awww! Does this mean the nav isn't the new one available in the Mazda5?

:( :( :( :( :( :(

Oh well, the key is cool-ish.

it just says navigation unit...based on the current 'political' situation with Mazda and the Nav manufacturers and Map makers there is almost no way the current unit will stay

yes there will be an 'orange'-ish RX-8 color now, hurray orange!!!

should just bring back Spicy Orange Mica from MS Protege ;) ;) ;)

Awww! Does this mean the nav isn't the new one available in the Mazda5?


that's a good question, how would we know from the spec that the Nav is going to the newer Mazda5 system or just the old system ?

here is the Miata swatches which shows the Copper Red.

Budaman stole my thunder:( Thanks Buda- btw guys in texas need to go buy cars from him:) he has been a big help sinc ethe cars first came out:)

http://www.rx8club.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=56082

it just says navigation unit...based on the current 'political' situation with Mazda and the Nav manufacturers and Map makers there is almost no way the current unit will stay

I hope you are right...the voice option is something i'm dying for...i'd like to see more companies share nav units between model lines.

Perhaps bud or zoom will get some details in the near future.

Sorry Zoom! Noticed your an Administrator now.....more work less pay :D

Will let you know when we get full specs.

Forgot, the Nav is supposed to be the same as the MZ-5's and will also be in the MZ-6. Pretty neat system, has 109 voice commands and is multilingual.

:D always glad to hear from you budaman

Forgot, the Nav is supposed to be the same as the MZ-5's and will also be in the MZ-6. Pretty neat system, has 109 voice commands and is multilingual.
I hope one of those commands is "Talk dirty to me" :p

Afterall, I did buy the car to have fun!

Sorry Zoom! Noticed your an Administrator now.....more work less pay :D

Will let you know when we get full specs.

Forgot, the Nav is supposed to be the same as the MZ-5's and will also be in the MZ-6. Pretty neat system, has 109 voice commands and is multilingual.


SICK! I held off on a loaded 05 last month specifically hoping the nav update rumor was true! You just made my year! New 06 with tek-ass nav!

I think that is the command to find a laundrymat :D

here is the Miata swatches which shows the Copper Red.

None of those swatches bear much resemblance to reality, do they? Velocity Red looks brownish, for one thing.

the mica's are hard to reproduce i any form and must be appreciated in person

If you go to www.bethecar.com you can make a new miata in copper red....it looks pretty nice

Have they deleted the Titanium Grayy (the dark grey)?
I see they now have the Galaxy Gray for the 2006 model?

Is there a big difference, because I REALLY wanted to buy a dark gray RX8, like they are now.

yes that is correct. i posted the swatches earlier in the thread but the miata swatches on the previosu page also show the galaxy grey

yes that is correct. i posted the swatches earlier in the thread but the miata swatches on the previosu page also show the galaxy grey

But is there a big difference? Because I find it hard to tell just looking at the swatches.

ive edited and reopened this thread to include the new info. discussion can take place here now. this will remain stickied for awhile :)

i think you will finds that it is more of a Matte fisnish . at least it appears to be in all photos etc. but youll have to check it in person.

Me hungi...for more, come on give me more!

So I guess for 06 there is no new HP huh?

But is there a big difference? Because I find it hard to tell just looking at the swatches.

i think the galaxy gray will be a shade darker than titanium gray.

http://www.nhtsa.dot.gov/ncap/cars/3534.html

hey thanks gettingan8

wannahave are you not paying atention? the AT gets more power.

i asked this in the earlier 'pre official' thread, but am I correct to assume 'intelligent keyless entry and start' means an actual engine start button? If so damn am I jealous!

^i'm pretty certain that's what it means :D

I'm curious about what the interior trim code "FF9" is, which is only going to be offered to white and copper red, "Black/???"

FF9 is apparently Sand/Alacantara. the only alacantara i could find on google wasnt a color but a business in italy that makes faux leather.

http://www.alcantara.com/asia/english.html

and apparently is used by some "big time" auto makers
http://www.google.com/search?hs=7ar&hl=en&lr=&safe=off&client=firefox-a&rls=org.mozilla%3Aen-US%3Aofficial_s&q=alcantara+color&btnG=Search

actually it does mean the company

- Upholstery, leather with Alcantara® inserts and leather door trim

the the trade mark. so its black with sand, the sand bits made with fabric from alcantara co.

or sand real leather with sand colored alcantra fabric for the insert/seating surfaces

Zoom....sure am glad you cleared that up. I know Mazda has been trying to find a way to get rid of all that old simulated suede from the Millenium Edition Millenia for a long time. I was worried that was what the Alacantara inserts were! :D

'intelligent keyless entry and start' could also mean you don't need to get the key out of your pocket, as the car unlocks as you approach it (and locks when you walk away). Also, you can turn the keyswitch without the key inserted, as long as it's within X feet of the detector, where "X" is usually about 3 feet and the detector is usually in the steering column. Not necessarilly a "start button". I'm not quite old enough, but "in the day" the keyswitch start was a great innovation. Before it came out you had a mechanical pedal that actually closed contacts from the battery to the starter, then they "modernized" that to a button on the dash.

I just don't see the attraction to a "start switch".

Well it appears that the old Shinka colour and it's faux pimp interior have gone! No more Barneymobile, I'm devastated :D .

Copper Red is a "Shinka only" colour according to the Spec Deck, though other colours may be available on the package.

It makes sense for the Copper Red to be Shinka-only. It wouldn't make sense to have so many red 8's around when you factor in the velocity reds.

The Shinka is still a luxo cruiser......where's my stripped sport model?

Barneymobile... that's a good one!

luxo cruiser? Interesting description.

What I want to know is why would such a luxury model not have an option for NAV if it was truly a 'cruiser'? Strange marketing on that one. I think it is an excuse to lure in the 'Special Edition' shoppers; those looking for the 'exclusive car', limited edition... too funny - seems like Mazda's marketing department works (too bad they can't get their Customer service Dept up to the same standard!)


The Shinka is still a luxo cruiser......where's my stripped sport model?

wannahave are you not paying atention? the AT gets more power.

Yeah...but how about us 6spd people? I'm glad for the auto people because you will be getting a better tranny and a few more ponies. It just seems that only cosmetic changes are being made for the 2006 RX8.

That's OK...it's a fine car as it is, but I thought they would maybe pull out some more HP after 2.5 years worth of production. (then...since I already have mine, maybe I could max the changes to gain the new power)

Well, now it's time to start the hype on the 2007 RX8...lol.

I wonder how long it's gonna take for mazda to update their websites.
So we can really see the changes, and answers to our questions

http://www.nhtsa.dot.gov/ncap/cars/3534.html

hate to burst your bubble, but those are the same pics used for all the model years of the rx8.
http://safercar.gov/NCAP/Cars/3005.html - 2004
http://safercar.gov/NCAP/Cars/3207.html - 2005

My fiance's old car was a Nissan 200sx in Autumn Sunburst, like this: http://www.se-r.net/about/200sx/edmunds_200SX_review.html

We were shopping for a car in that kind of color but only Mini S Convertible or the 350Z has some like that. At the end the Velocity Red looks equally unique. Man, we should have waited for the Copper Red.

'intelligent keyless entry and start' could also mean you don't need to get the key out of your pocket, as the car unlocks as you approach it (and locks when you walk away). Also, you can turn the keyswitch without the key inserted, as long as it's within X feet of the detector, where "X" is usually about 3 feet and the detector is usually in the steering column. Not necessarilly a "start button". I'm not quite old enough, but "in the day" the keyswitch start was a great innovation. Before it came out you had a mechanical pedal that actually closed contacts from the battery to the starter, then they "modernized" that to a button on the dash.

I just don't see the attraction to a "start switch".


Looking at the PDF Zoom posted, it just says smartkey keyless entry system...I actually didn't see entry and start anywhere...so who knows....i think the start button is cool just cause of its looks, and similarity to Formula 1 cars really....

FF9 is apparently Sand/Alacantara. the only alacantara i could find on google wasnt a color but a business in italy that makes faux leather.


and apparently is used by some "big time" auto makers
http://www.google.com/search?hs=7ar&hl=en&lr=&safe=off&client=firefox-a&rls=org.mozilla%3Aen-US%3Aofficial_s&q=alcantara+color&btnG=Search


I believe the dash in the M3 and possilby roofs in the RS4 Audis are alcantra suede/leather....
not positive, but pretty sure....i think it'll look pretty sweet in Shinka form.

Alcantara is the new trend in all the 'performance cars' AMGs use them as optional trim, Cadillac V series, Audi Ss/RSs, etc. Its kind of like woodgrain, carbon fiber, and brushed aluminum in the sense that its a fad. Right now its hot--me personally I'll pass because its hard to clean--I'll stick with leather.

http://www.alcantara.com/asia/english.html

They list all of their clients...while somewhat exclusive, it's not purely in $$$$$$$$ cars, seems to be used as a way for some of the more modestly priced manufacturers to distinguish their vehicles too:

Ford Mondeo
VW Golf
Audi A3
Various Toyota JDM people movers


Cool Addition!

Honestly--it doesn't feel too much different than the material used for the inserts in the cloth equipped RX8s.

The Sand/ Alacantra is available in Black Cars and Galaxy Gray cars as well as the Shinka at least i think it is. am i reading the form right? one page of the spec deck sad it was available ont he white. but here it is a blacked out square which i read as not available. clear squares meaning an available choice. do i have that right?

You read right Zoom. Checked the order grid and the Shinka is not set up for ordering yet, so it will probably be like last year and appear around Christmas. One other thing is the SAT will not be part of the pkg in Hawaii and Alaska. Theirs will have a credit for it which explains why the last few '05 Shinkas we got had the credit....must have originally been earmarked for H & A.

well i cant confirm anything but the colors right now. but i have been expecting the others so i dont doubt them;) here is the color list for the US. it appears we are getting one the canadians are not.... Phantom Blue Mica-

My wife thinks it is "girly" and the one she would want if we had twin 8's.

here is the Miata swatches which shows the Copper Red.

Budaman stole my thunder:( Thanks Buda- btw guys in texas need to go buy cars from him:) he has been a big help sinc ethe cars first came out:)

http://www.rx8club.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=56082


Does the copper red look like the rust color that was available with the '79 first gen RX7s??? Sure brings back memories. I can't remember the name of the color. Only have room in my brain for the smile memories...

This is the copper red on the new miata as far as I can tell. Looks pretty good actually, should look nice on the 8.
http://www.miata.net/gallery/images/06copper.jpg

Is there any chance at all that the CD player configuration will be changed in the 06's to allow an easier aftermarket replacement? I'm seriously considering taking the plunge on an RX8 but I'm a bit of a stereo guru....the CD player setup is really bugging me. I realize the answer is probably no but I had to ask. If there is any chance at all that they may change this I'd probably hold out for an '06. If not, I'll probably buy an '05. I'm also a bit concerned about the paint on the 05's as I understand there have been some problems with chipping/flaking. Perhaps the new paint process on the 06's would make holding off a few months worthwhile.

I test drove an 8 yesterday it was the most fun I'd ever had behind the wheel of a car.....I still want to test drive a Mustang GT before I make my final decision, but I can't imagine it'd be more fun to drive than the 8. I drove an automatic 6 Mustang and My 2000 Maxima with 120,000 miles on it could leave that thing in the dust, handles like a boxcar.

Hrm, so this means the new alcantara interrior will be avainable with the black paint?

Sand leather with alcantara inlay?

I was set on the black on black leather with the BBCC paint, but this new material sounds fascinating...any word on when we'll get pics and/or an official announcement?

yes according to the order form and confirmed by budaman. subject to ghange of course, but right now the new sand/alcantara is available for ordering on black

http://www.alcantara.com/asia/english.html

They list all of their clients...while somewhat exclusive, it's not purely in $$$$$$$$ cars, seems to be used as a way for some of the more modestly priced manufacturers to distinguish their vehicles too:

Ford Mondeo
VW Golf
Audi A3
Various Toyota JDM people movers


I had Alcantara in my old Maserati Biturbos- we call this "Ultrasuede" here. It feels like suede and it is nice and grippy.

But in a light color like sand, it will show dirt and quickly. And it is difficult to clean.

Is there any word on whether the AC system will be improved on the 06 models?

Looking at the matrix that was posted (for 06 ordering)...

Did anybody else notice the deletion of the color name 'Whitewater Pearl' from the US? I wonder why they went to the Snowflake name?

hate to burst your bubble, but those are the same pics used for all the model years of the rx8.
http://safercar.gov/NCAP/Cars/3005.html - 2004
http://safercar.gov/NCAP/Cars/3207.html - 2005


Tis a joke!...all the external views of the 04/05/06 are the same...

I have read through this thread and maybe I missed something ....

What did Mazda do to increase the HP on the AT version of the car?

I have read through this thread and maybe I missed something ....

What did Mazda do to increase the HP on the AT version of the car?

Basically, they went with the higher power one currently being used with the M/T.
Guess they just limited the rpm's and that's how they squeezed a bit more juice out of her.

so it is confirmed its a 6-port?

No

I don't think anyone has seen one yet.

The smart start is kinda cool. It's about the size of a credit card that goes into your pocket.

As long as it is in the car the car will start. The tumblers are still there they are covered with a plastic cover you turn.

No

I don't think anyone has seen one yet.

The smart start is kinda cool. It's about the size of a credit card that goes into your pocket.

As long as it is in the car the car will start. The tumblers are still there they are covered with a plastic cover you turn.

Hrm, interesting, i figured they'd use the start button from the JDM model...is this in the same system as in any other existing mazda/fordcars? Have you seen the rx8 fitted with this new system?

Looking at the matrix that was posted (for 06 ordering)...

Did anybody else notice the deletion of the color name 'Whitewater Pearl' from the US? I wonder why they went to the Snowflake name?

it was both names...there were different names for the colors for different parts of the world

some places it was whitewater (or something) and others it was Snowflake

Basically, they went with the higher power one currently being used with the M/T.
Guess they just limited the rpm's and that's how they squeezed a bit more juice out of her.


that is not confirmed at all.

Any info on the nav unit map data? The new 8 should share a nav system/data with the 6 and mx5...how current is the 06 mazda5 and the 06 miata map info?

From Mazda Canada's website... maybe theyre getting the frenzy ready? :D (they just added the MX5 last night)

COMING SOON...
Be sure to check out Mazda Canada's soon-to-be released upcoming models, exciting new concept vehicles, and archived models from previous years using the menu at the top of this page.

Those smart cards sound cool in all but i would always be worried if they are actually locking your car. So you go back and check and of course its unlocked again. They would do my head in :confused:

Since the 05 key can be made to work on an 04, I wonder if the 06 keyless entry could also be adapted to previous models.

Since the 05 key can be made to work on an 04, I wonder if the 06 keyless entry could also be adapted to previous models.

i would assume different type of transponder and different wiring in the car (making me think no).... but im not an engineer-ing type person ;)

its to keep people from starting new threads like they have been for the last 2 weeks.

Here is the real deal current info for 2006-

There has not been any changes announced yet. There also has not been any announcemnt saying nothing is changing. In other words -Mazda hasnt told anyone anything yet.

speculation- the 2006 cars will probably all come with the updated battery and starter.

The Mazda Dealer here told me that they are coming out with a RX8 Speed Version for the 2006, with turbo and a bigger engine..but you can only get it in certain states..any truth to this? He also said it should be out in about a month or two.

The Mazda Dealer here told me that they are coming out with a RX8 Speed Version for the 2006, with turbo and a bigger engine..but you can only get it in certain states..any truth to this? He also said it should be out in about a month or two.

Yeah, and the sky is falling too. :rolleyes:

The Mazda Dealer here told me that they are coming out with a RX8 Speed Version for the 2006, with turbo and a bigger engine..but you can only get it in certain states..any truth to this? He also said it should be out in about a month or two.

Yes, and it will get 30 MPH! :rolleyes:

You might want to post in the "Stupid sh&^T your dealer has told you" thread.

Geez....is Winning Blue Mica going from a Mica to a metallic? Bummer , I love the mica. Now I have to reconsider colors again.

Geez....is Winning Blue Mica going from a Mica to a metallic? Bummer , I love the mica. Now I have to reconsider colors again.
no there is a new blue color added

Winning Blue has ALWAYS been a 'metallic' color (ie silver flakes instead of 'mica' gold flakes)

jeez where does this stuff come from?

The Mazda Dealer here told me that they are coming out with a RX8 Speed Version for the 2006, with turbo and a bigger engine..but you can only get it in certain states..any truth to this? He also said it should be out in about a month or two.

The only problem with this model is that it will only be visible when no one is looking at it.

jeez where does this stuff come from?

Zoom, this is what happens when you step away from the computer to get a meatball sandwich. :p

I just thought I'd add my 2 cents here.... my salesman called me yesterday and said "Mazda just called and said SURPRISE, you're allowed to order one RX-8 today and today only." So he called me and asked me what options I wanted on mine and also asked if I wanted the keyless entry/engine start option if it is available. I told him yes along with all the other options/accessories I wanted and he placed the order. He then told me that they dropped the name "Whitewater Pearl" from the ordering list so I now have on order a 2006 Snowflake White RX-8. JOY! Just thought I'd share.

Has the 6-speed automatic rumor been substantiated yet? I spoke to my dealer, and they hadn't received any literature or heard of any changes for the 2006 model year. My wife and I just purchased a beautiful 2005 RX-8, and I ended up bending to her will and ordering an automatic (she "never has, never will" drive a manual). I have no problem with the 4-speed auto -- it was definitely a good compromise for us, and the car is still a blast to drive -- but a 6-speed auto could be pretty cool...

yes that was not a rumour. 2006 AT is a 6AT with more power than the 4AT. its posted a page or 2 back

apparently us canadians are getting left behind with new mazda models (especially the 8 it sounds like). i got told by 2 seperate dealerships today that they dont expect any '06s until spring :eek:

the mx-5 isnt due to be delivered to them until late spetember at the earliest!

The Mazda Dealer here told me that they are coming out with a RX8 Speed Version for the 2006, with turbo and a bigger engine..but you can only get it in certain states..any truth to this? He also said it should be out in about a month or two.

why would you even humor such a ridiculous statement? why would a car ONLY be sold in certain states? does that make sense to you at all? :confused:

why would you even humor such a ridiculous statement? why would a car ONLY be sold in certain states? does that make sense to you at all? :confused:

umm, maybe because he's not in a different state, he's in a different COUNTRY. :p

Y would it be mid 2006 for 06's??? Kinda late and lose alot of customers.





apparently us canadians are getting left behind with new mazda models (especially the 8 it sounds like). i got told by 2 seperate dealerships today that they dont expect any '06s until spring :eek:

the mx-5 isnt due to be delivered to them until late spetember at the earliest!

yes that was not a rumour. 2006 AT is a 6AT with more power than the 4AT. its posted a page or 2 back

Budaman's spec sheet looks official enough, but I guess I'm not aware of his connections with Mazda. I've seen no other mention of a 6-speed automatic for the RX-8 anywhere other than on this forum site (and believe me, I've been looking/asking)... that's why I was curious. No offense meant.

Budaman's spec sheet looks official enough, but I guess I'm not aware of his connections with Mazda. I've seen no other mention of a 6-speed automatic for the RX-8 anywhere other than on this forum site (and believe me, I've been looking/asking)... that's why I was curious. No offense meant.

well the reality is the guys on this forum know more about the RX-8 then all the knowledge of MNAO and all the dealerships combined

we are a powerful force :D

Y would it be mid 2006 for 06's??? Kinda late and lose alot of customers.

from what the dealer told me:

"Mazda is a truly genuine import car manufacturer. Cars are announced and then built overseas, so even if the model is official, it will still take a couple of months before you actually see one. We do not expect to see any 2006 Rx-8s until spring 2006 at the earliest."

im just going on what he told me, i cant say its an official statement, but thats the only contact that i have with Mazda, so its as official as it can get for me. ;)

Budaman's spec sheet looks official enough, but I guess I'm not aware of his connections with Mazda. I've seen no other mention of a 6-speed automatic for the RX-8 anywhere other than on this forum site (and believe me, I've been looking/asking)... that's why I was curious. No offense meant.

budaman is a highly respected individual at a highly respected dealership. I am am fortunate enough to know several like him and also some at MNAO. whenhe or i post the documents they are real;). no offense taken
:)

i cant tell you when canada will se 06 cars- that would be a question for Mazda canada:)

Does anyone know when we will see the 06's

november or a so

november or a so

Hey all. New to the forum and will soon be an '06 owner. Just wanted to say that my dealer's GM has told me that I will see '06s on his lot in "one month." Hope he's right, I am ready to own and drive this beautiful machine.

i really dont expect any 2006's to ship in september. i could be wrong on that.

Now I must get to work on forgetting I ever heard of this 6-speed auto version! Must...not...let this haunt me. :( 4 speeds is more than anyone needs anyway, right? :)

I'm told we will see "something special" in an RX-8 in October at Sevenstock 8.

As in something Special for the 2006 model ?

"The word" was from a Mazda insider, so that's all he said. I would expect something good for the manual. Or perhaps a Mazdaspeed North American model. It's all speculation until the meet. But yes, for the 2006 model.

For those not "in the know", Sevenstock is the world's largest meeting of rotary powered vehicles. This year will be the eighth. I have never been able to make it, but from the descriptions and pics. I've seen, it's quite a gathering. See http://www.sevenstock.org/ for more info. It's at Mazda North America headquarters, near LA. in early October.

What? The 6-speed RX-8 will get a horsepower bump to...250???

Give that dog a bone!

I'm told we will see "something special" in an RX-8 in October at Sevenstock 8.

What was the context exactly? As in something new that will be available for all stock RX-8s? Or just a modded 8?

Thanks RX-8 friend, I guess you already told us all that you know so the rest is all just speculations. My guess is the official spec and launch date of the MazdaSpeed RX-8

What? The 6-speed RX-8 will get a horsepower bump to...250???

Give that dog a bone!


If anything, the current 6-spds will get a "DROP" in hp. With all the new HP rating rules, alot of japanese cars are being re-rated, since most japanese companies "over rate" their cars (Hmmmmmm...I think Mazda has done this a couple times). The new specs for the S2000 is 237HP as opposed to 240. The avalon, and a few other toyotas (lexus) numbers have all of a sudden "changed" on thier websites....so who knows whats going to happen to the Rx-8.

A couple people are guessing 220hp or less :( :(

Nothing is being changed in the engine though. It's all still the same. Just a stricter rating. Not even sure if Mazda will go by the new SAE rating.

not going to debate this in this thread but- the mesuring standard test changed. so those crazy japanese provided the numbers generated using the prvious standard weren't over- rating. the new numbers are becasue of different testing standard not calculation or marketing mis-judgements liek Mazda's previous 2.

not going to debate this in this thread but- the mesuring standard test changed. so those crazy japanese provided the numbers generated using the prvious standard weren't over- rating. the new numbers are becasue of different testing standard not calculation or marketing mis-judgements liek Mazda's previous 2.

Yeah. I guess...but what its going to mean, is that the numbers will be lower than before. I'm waiting to see what the new number will be...I think all manufactures are going to have to go by this new rule, no? I guess we'll see once the new brochure comes out....

the AT car actually goes up for 2006 to 212. not all japanese cars from all brands are changing soem have stayed the same. some wont use the new standard yet . i doubt the 6mt will change because they dont have to use the new standard unles the want to OR the reconfigure the engien or have soem other reason for needign to rate the engien again.

some one move my E key to a different location on my keyboard so i have a chance of typing something correctly the 1st time, please?!?!?!

the AT car actually goes up for 2006 to 212. not all japanese cars from all brands are changing soem have stayed the same. some wont use the new standard yet . i doubt the 6mt will change because they dont have to use the new standard unles the want to OR the reconfigure the engien or have soem other reason for needign to rate the engien again.

Is it because their switching to the 6 spd motor? Or are they still using the same AT motor, but somehow were able to squeeze more power out? I didn't realize that they can opt out of using the new rules. I thought it was mandotory.

According to wat i read they placed the manual engine into the AT and reduced the rpm

I was under the impression that the RX8 already used those methods.

Where is the brochure? I've gone from excited, to annoyed these past few weeks, haha. I want my 06!

Is it because they're switching....

that is the current speculation but has not been confirmed.

Maybe all but Cali due to emissions... lol

why would you even humor such a ridiculous statement? why would a car ONLY be sold in certain states? does that make sense to you at all? :confused:

i was on http://www.auto123.ca today and if you go to the car comparisons section, you can select a 2006 RX8! mind you, there's a lot of information missing, but the option is there, which i found kind of strange.

i compared it to the 2005 model, and the only difference i noticed was the 0-60 time went from 6.8s (2005) to 6.0s (2006)....

I just went to that site to check it out, I notice the warranties went to 3yrs or 80,000 km. That would kinda suck, back to 3yrs.

so, i've been reading this whole thread for the past 20min. or so (actually took longer cuz i was posting in another forum and chatting on AIM :p), but i'm getting the impression here that like previously said, only the AT 8s will be gettin the HP increase in power? But if Frostee has seen specs on the '06 where the 0-60 time was 0.8 second faster, then that must mean it has to have more power. Unless you were comparing the '05 AT vs. the '06 AT 8s???

I dont think info on that website is accurate. The g35 coupe spec from 0-60 is 7.3 seconds.

But if Frostee has seen specs on the '06 where the 0-60 time was 0.8 second faster, then that must mean it has to have more power. Unless you were comparing the '05 AT vs. the '06 AT 8s???

those stats are from the auto123 website, so i do not know the source, just thought i would share them. i set up the comparison to compare an '05 model vs. an '06 model. whether it using AT or MT, i do not know ;)


I dont think info on that website is accurate. The g35 coupe spec from 0-60 is 7.3 seconds.

i think that website uses manufacturer data, not actual roadtests of their own. i do not know the source, nor make any testament to its accuracy ;)

Has there been an official date yet? because I've read that it's normally this month, but you would think that if it's this close to the release date, that you would have more info OF the release date.

Any thought?

Any scoops?

job one isnt until October so there will probably not (given normal production time constraints plus shipping time) be any until November which is what i said several pages ago;)

job one isnt until October so there will probably not (given normal production time constraints plus shipping time) be any until November which is what i said several pages ago;)

tnx, you know how it goes, when you have to read so many pages, you sort of scroll right past everything in the end. :)

But I was asking, because I want to see al the new data and stuff on the websites.
Which makes everything a lot easier ;)

SHOW ME THE STARTBUTTON :p

since my thread was locked and misunderstood i'll try again here...

Motortrend and Car & Driver are reporting that nothing will change for the 06. Car and Driver says that maybe at the END of 06 or 07 there will be a 6 speed auto, does anyone have anything on that? Are they jsut wrong? I was expecting the updates at the beginning of the 06 rx8...

what we knwo from official Canandian Mazda sources
more detail info

6-speed sport mode AT
HP: 212 @ 7200 rpm
torque: 159 @ 5000 rpm
redline: 7500
displacement 654cc x 2

plus the actual MNAO spec sheet

http://www.rx8club.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=56087

which states the same thing

what we knwo from official Canandian Mazda sources


plus the actual MNAO spec sheet

http://www.rx8club.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=56087

which states the same thing

yeah i've seen that before, i'm not asking what changes are being made, i'm asking how accurate Car and driver and motortrend are. They are saying no changes until the END of 06...

i suppose i could call them and ask WHY they disagree with the mazda documents that state the changes and the job 1 date and the ordering form the dealerships are using to order now.

i suppose i could call them and ask WHY they disagree with the mazda documents that state the changes and the job 1 date and the ordering form the dealerships are using to order now.

Yeah that's exactly what i'm wondering about too. I mean, when i read it in motortrend I brushed it off as them not knowing their ass from a hole in the ground, but then i read pretty much the same thing in C&D and it got me thinking...

called mnao customer assistance and they confirmed 6AT for 2006 showing up in dealerships by december 05 :)

hehe my sources are better than C&D and Motortrend. They should just hire me:)

later i will see if i can get like Sam Mitani on the phone and see what he has to say. Someone else call C&D:)

0-60 in 7.3 sec for an auto G35 Coupe? I don't think thats too accurate, auto G35 sedans are getting to 60 about a second faster.

i suppose i could call them and ask WHY they disagree with the mazda documents that state the changes and the job 1 date and the ordering form the dealerships are using to order now.

Zoom thanks for clearing that up :)

Do you think perhaps the first post on this thread could be edited and updated with the changes so that people dont have to wade through 4 pages of posts ? :D

Yeah that's exactly what i'm wondering about too. I mean, when i read it in motortrend I brushed it off as them not knowing their ass from a hole in the ground, but then i read pretty much the same thing in C&D and it got me thinking...


Got you thinking? Got you thinking...that C&D are as clueless as MT, i hope.

This thread has all the info, simply stated too, but thanks again Zoom for helping out.

*Waiting for my 06*

Can we get a list of changed on the first page, there is alot of bullpoop to wade through haha. Just a thought.

yes yes i am working on it it just takes time. lots of other stuff to do to

yes yes i am working on it it just takes time. lots of other stuff to do to

It also doesn't help when people ask you for something and forget to include a please and/or thank you :rolleyes:

Some people on here are like little kids 'can I can I can I, I want I want I want' :p

oh yeah . . . I want I want, now now . . . oops I mean ppppllllleeeeaaaassseee

and of course thanks when it is done. I didnt realize you were already doing it or I would have kept my big yap shut :)

oh yeah . . . I want I want, now now . . . oops I mean ppppllllleeeeaaaassseee

and of course thanks when it is done. I didnt realize you were already doing it or I would have kept my big yap shut :)

:) thanks better...great manners can get you far in life :p

Any more info on the 06 MT appearance.

I know some have been allocated. My dealer pulled some up on his computer that are allocated for 06.

Waiting........

Any more info on the 06 MT appearance.

I know some have been allocated. My dealer pulled some up on his computer that are allocated for 06.

Waiting........

?

I ordered an 06 last week and my dealer called today and said expect it in around 1-2 months. I had also requested fender strakes and he said they were listed as already on the car. Anybody know if fender strakes are going to be included with car or part of an option package for the 06?

The '04's and '05"s did not come from the factory with fender strakes. They may have been added for '06, but I doubt it. They can be installed by the dealer or by yourself. Check out the DIY section of this forum.

this is a normal dealer trick- they didnt order a car for YOU they put your name on one of their allocation cars that closely matched what you wanted. then when it getes here they will try to slip the extra cost into the paperwork. better check now what is and is not coming on your car.

Apparently we are getting the piano black interior from the Shinka in the Oz spec 8's. Chrome rotary bezels in the headrests too. I find it hard to believe they are doing this just for our small market.......though it wasn't mentioned in budamans spec sheet, I reckon you lot might be in line for it as well.

I got this info from a member of my dealers sales staff today. He attended a roadshow on the new RX-8 last week.

Gomez.

the NHTSA has the 2006 stats up. dunno if they are any different from 2005 though...

http://www.safercar.gov/NCAP/Cars/3534.html

the NHTSA has the 2006 stats up. dunno if they are any different from 2005 though...

http://www.safercar.gov/NCAP/Cars/3534.html



Hmmmm. Five star rating, even for the "death seat." IMPRESSIVE!!!

Looks like they used the same pics from the original 2004 tests.

Hi folks.. my first post... I've been looking at the 8 for a month now. Drove the current ones on the lot, and have been waiting for my order period to open up in October for the 06 model.

I've found this forum an interesting read, and the many different points of view. I've also read many other posts about issues and pros about the beast.

I also have the 2006 spec sheet as of Sept. 6. But I have to wait until the ordering window opens up to see what is actually available to me. I'm figuring I won't see a delivery until sometime next March or April. The snow should be gone by then.. :) Meanwhile, I'll just have to go around to dealers and take test drives. ;)

Any new info when the 2006's will be out??????

Thanks

My dealer told me on Sunday that they will have them on the lot mid October.

My dealer also told me a Mazda Speed RX-8 with turbo (300+ hp) is planned for Model Year 2007....love to see if that becomes a reality, since that is when my lease is up.

Well--cosmic--lets hope thats true--but I wouldn't necessarilly hold my breath on that one. Dealers know as much as we do---if not less.

Well--cosmic--lets hope thats true--but I wouldn't necessarilly hold my breath on that one. Dealers know as much as we do---if not less.

If not less?

No!

Much much less...

I was told by one dealer we want see them till January. This is from a large dealership. And production want start till mid October. Let me know if you hear something different.

MAZDAUSA.COM is now listing the 2006 RX-8 on the inventory search page...don't see any available(obviously), but they are there...any new news insiders?


*edit* looks like the other vehicles were updated too.

But still no search for the MX-6 or Mazda5

sorry if its been said but everythings so jargled i don't know whats fact or fiction anymore. 1. the 06 rx8 has bluetooth correct? 2. has keyless entry? 3. titanium is killed and galayx is in? and 4. when will it actually reach dealers?

sorry if its been said but everythings so jargled i don't know whats fact or fiction anymore. 1. the 06 rx8 has bluetooth correct? 2. has keyless entry? 3. titanium is killed and galayx is in? and 4. when will it actually reach dealers?

1 - havent heard that one before (although i may have missed some posts)
2 - so far, thats the way it looks
3 - yes, again, so far
4 - no idea

hi guys, I am from Romania and I just want to say that I am very satisfied with my RX8.The only bad thing in my country is that we have to pay too much taxes for autovehicles outside European Community.I paid 50,000 euros that is around $70,000 but its worth it.
Anyway I just wanted to say that I really enjoy driving this car.

hi guys, I am from Romania and I just want to say that I am very satisfied with my RX8.The only bad thing in my country is that we have to pay too much taxes for autovehicles outside European Community.I paid 50,000 euros that is around $70,000 but its worth it.
Anyway I just wanted to say that I really enjoy driving this car.

nice...show us pics bud :)

oh btw I went to south africa and the RX8 was $80,000USD...CRAZY!

enjoy your car...hang out on the site...also thew can send you parts out there if you are interesting www.mazdaparts.com

Here in Singapore. An manual RX8 is going for S$135000 (or USD$79800) auto for S$110000 (USD$65000). Road tax is S$760 a year (based on engine capacity, so S$760 is cheap compared to S$1500 for my other 2000cc car). Insurance is compulsory and it costs about S$3000 for a 26 year old guy. Out of the car price, S$17000 is for a certificate of entitlement. The car price also include government taxes.

And get this: Our cars have only a 10 year life span which we have to pay for another certificate of entitlement or scrap the car. So we are paying $80k US for a RX8 to drive for 10 years.

If it makes you guys feel better. The price for 1 litre or 0.26 gal (1 gal is 3.8 litres) of 98 is at S$1.897 (USD$7.21 per gal). Or S$1.782 for 92 gas.

And the icing on top of the government's cake is that we pay to drive to certain areas of the city, ranges from S$0.50 to S$2.50 per entry. Not forgeting the parking charges at home and work. And there are charges here and there. eg. Radio license at S$15.

Maybe you guys heard about the strict laws we have here. It can be relatively easy to get yourself fined for minor offences. How about S$120 for speeding 10km/h above the speed limit or S$6 for exceeding your parking limit by 5 minutes.

http://www.shell.com/home/Framework?siteId=sg-en&FC2=/sg-en/html/iwgen/news_and_library/press_releases/2005/zzz_lhn.html&FC3=/sg-en/html/iwgen/news_and_library/press_releases/2005/pump_price_change_0926.html

We want see any RX8's till January 06. That is when the dealerships are scheduled to get them.

If anyone finds a 2006 before then let me know. PM me.....

Thanks

Mazda Canada just announced rates for all the cars for 2006.... EXCEPT the RX8....

I went yesterday to Marlin Mazda here in Miami and this sales guy told me that the 2006 Rx-8 was supposed to be a "little different" than the 2005 in the exterior. He also told me that they ordered 2 in "special order" and he even tried to find me a catalog but didn't find one ( :rolleyes: he "had one")

I don't really know if he was telling me the truth or not, but I really want to go there and check the 2 they ordered when they come in!!! If I get a chance to take a Pic, I will!!... :D

I went yesterday to Marlin Mazda here in Miami and this sales guy told me that the 2006 Rx-8 was supposed to be a "little different" than the 2005 in the exterior. He also told me that they ordered 2 in "special order" and he even tried to find me a catalog but didn't find one ( :rolleyes: he "had one")

I don't really know if he was telling me the truth or not, but I really want to go there and check the 2 they ordered when they come in!!! If I get a chance to take a Pic, I will!!... :D


Damn, where's the 'bullshit flag' when you need it... :rolleyes:


The 'special order' is probably just one with ALL the options on it. They'll throw it in the showroom and hope someone buys it.

hi guys, I am from Romania and I just want to say that I am very satisfied with my RX8.The only bad thing in my country is that we have to pay too much taxes for autovehicles outside European Community.I paid 50,000 euros that is around $70,000 but its worth it.
Anyway I just wanted to say that I really enjoy driving this car.

That's cool. The $$ is one of the reasons I didn't go back there after college. I can get one for $25,000 here in the US :P

My dealer* called me last night asking if i was still interested in an 06 rx8...he seemed to think he wouldn't have one until Feb. 06...this is starting to suck.

Hope Mazda makes an announcement soon :(

*Dealer: Evanston IL Mazda

I saw some info on the 2006 in my dealers book. There are a couple of small changes like no gray this year but added a dark red. He had absolutely no pricing info on the 2006. He even called the area rep. They are still saying January. I think this s---ks. You have customers and a loyal group be can't deliver the product. They have not even started making them yet. This stinks big time!





I went yesterday to Marlin Mazda here in Miami and this sales guy told me that the 2006 Rx-8 was supposed to be a "little different" than the 2005 in the exterior. He also told me that they ordered 2 in "special order" and he even tried to find me a catalog but didn't find one ( :rolleyes: he "had one")

I don't really know if he was telling me the truth or not, but I really want to go there and check the 2 they ordered when they come in!!! If I get a chance to take a Pic, I will!!... :D

He also said a special order would probably be late feb or march.....

they are getting rid of the gray?? That's too bad, I liked that color. Almost got that instead of my red.
I don't know why they don't change the blue to the darker blue seen in other countries and in X-Men II (yeah, that blue). That one looks sweet!

Yep the ti-gray is gone. I liked that color too.

ti gray is being replaced by galaxy gray (basically a darker shade gray)

i split the actual documents and some informative posts from the long discussion thread for clarity. this thread will remain locked for posting except when i update it with more info. discussion can take place in the other thread http://www.rx8club.com/showthread.php?t=68546

i moved the documents and some of the other informative posts to a new thread for clarity

http://www.rx8club.com/showthread.php?p=1078117#post1078117

http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/do/Features/articleId=107499?tid=edmunds.h..insideline.promo.4 .*

"Mazda Takes Rotary to the Limit
After much speculation that the next car out of Hiroshima to employ the rotary would be the next-generation RX-7, Mazda has surprised us with the Senku (meaning "trailblazer") four-seat sport coupe fitted with the company's first gasoline-powered rotary hybrid unit. Married to a twin-clutch seven-speed sequential transmission, the Senku sits on a 122-inch wheelbase with a 50/50 front/rear weight distribution. It also employs double wishbones at the front and a multilink setup at the rear and wears 22-inch Yokohama rubber. Targeting mature buyers in their 40s and 50s, the sleek two-door concept employs a sliding door which permits access to the bright-red interior. One other innovative feature is the roof-mounted, see-through solar panels which generate additional electric power when the car is stationary.

To complete the rotary's all-star performance this year, the compact engine will feature in two other concepts. In seeing what's possible with rotaries and alternative fuels, Mazda engineers have created the Premacy (Mazda 5) hydrogen rotary hybrid concept. Fitted with the RX-8's Renesis rotary engine, a hybrid unit, a gasoline tank and a hydrogen storage tank, a dual-fuel system allows the car to run on either gasoline or hydrogen. Incorporating the same system, the RX-8 hydrogen rotary concept will also appear. First seen at the 2003 Tokyo show, this updated automatic model produces 210 hp when run on gasoline, but loses power, falling to just 109 hp when switched to hydrogen.

Mazda will also use the Tokyo show to unveil its all-new MPV, replacing the current model that's been around for six years. Boasting a new, fresh look with bold headlights and an extended wheelbase, the eight-seat minivan employs a 2.3-liter gasoline turbo which generates torque levels equal to or better than its V6-powered rivals but with superior fuel economy. The six-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission helps in that area, too. A longer wheelbase also translates into an improved seating setup and more legroom throughout. Employing MacPherson struts at the front and a multilink setup at the rear, the MPV gets vented disc brakes all round and 18-inch wheels to highlight the fact that this minivan handles far better than the outgoing model. Expect to see the new MPV in European showrooms in 2006."

For you lazy readers: Mazda is bringing back the hydrogen RX-8 with 210 hp.

On another note. The Nissan Skyline GT-R is also debuting, also, the next Toyota Supra. OHHHHH I can't wait!

Show runs Oct 22 to Nov 06

Well--the Senku concept is basically a platform to showcase what features we can see down the line. What I get from it: Rotary hybrids in the near future, solar roof panels, and an clutchless manual ala Audis DSG. Mazda used solar panelled sunroofs before in the flagship 929, the solar panel would power an electric fan to cool the car on hot days.