Let the new segment begin!
 

Well, it seems as though the RX-8 has opened up a new gateway into the automotive world- the four door sports coupe. It is no doubt the first in what is going to be a hot segment. Anything that can combine the versatility of a sedan with the looks and performance of a sports car is going to win hearts.

Shall we let the evolution begin? Unfortunately, as many will refuse to admit, the RX-8 will soon be beat at its own game, the question of sooner or later is the question. Will it hold the crown like the 3-series? Or will it be overshadowed as the style is perfected.

Here is a new 4 door sports coupe from Subaru. One look at the interior will tell you how far this is from a reality, but just squint and try to see a comparison test 3 or 4 years down the road :D

Subaru B111S

.:cough:. rip off .:cough:. .:cough:.

A tad off topic, but I would definitely like to see that Honda concept in America. That is a sharp looking sedan.

Thanks, I love the front end design!
 

I like it! ... and it a fastback!

;)

I wonder if it 's also will be a hatchback ... ?

It reminds me alittle bit of the Mazda 6

;)

Both are nicely designed ...

http://www.autoweek.com/specials/200...u/IMG_0296.jpg
I'm not a big fan of the 350Z-meets-Alfa-Romeo styling, but it's still a step in the right direction for Subaru to make more sleek looking, rather than boxy cars IMHO.

I don't think that RX-8 will spawn an all new segment that involves only cars with suicide, er I mean 'Free Style', doors.

I think the segment we are talking about really started, in recent terms, with the 4 door previous gen (E36?) BWM M3. Sports car power (for back then) and handling with 4 doors and comfortable seating for 4.

Currently, I see the Mitsubishi Evo, Subaru WRX/STi, and Audi S4 falling into the same catagory. I really don't think the coupe body style will matter to consumers. I think what is important is 4 doors for easy entry and egress for all passengers, comfortable seating for 4 adults, 5 ppl in a pinch. Sports car power and handling with power to the rear or all 4 corners.

Basically, it is a vehicle that you could drive your kids to school and yourself work every weekday (in the rain or snow) and wouldn't be embarrassed to bring to the track on weekends.

Ppl are starting to come out of this SUV crazy and realize what's important. Nobody really cares if their daily driver can take on the Rubicon trail. They are concerned with style or preception of lifestyle, practicality, ultility, comfort, reliability, and economy.

This is why crossovers will be the ones waving the SUV banner for the masses and this is the same reason why cars like the RX-8 will be waving the sports car banner for the masses unlike the Camaro/Firebird of the world. Sure, their will always be a market for pure sports cars like the 911, Viper, Corvette, etc... just like there will always be a market for the Hummers, Land Rovers and Wranglers, they just won't have the same impact on the market like the Ford Explorers and Toyota 4Runners do today.