If you really need at AT.... get an infiniti or nissan coupe instead. They are torqueier than the rx-8 despite not as thrilling to drive as the Mazda. However with an AT, half of the thrill is gone. Not to mention aren't AT rx-8 have the largest share of engine problems due to carbon built up thanks to lower rev limit?
In any case please do yourself a favour, get something else. An AT RX-8 will just leave you disappointed. I just don't want to se you coming back and pile hate on the rx-8 down the road. And with a handle like 'Canada', it sure won't bode well with inter-border rx-8 forum relationships!

 

I agree with Delhi

 

Thanks for your advice, folks. Some other points to consider are:
1) I didn't have any problem with the motor on my 2004 RX-8 (AT)
2) that car was a thrill to drive despite a lower rev limit (it beat the hell out of anything else I've ever driven)
3) this will be another 3-year lease, so I'm not worried about carbon build-up
4) the coupes are out, as my employer limits company cars to those having 4 doors

I'll let you know how this all turns out.