I can't imagine they'd change the shape of the RX-8. At least not for several years. Back to my original post on this thread, it just takes to much time and money to make any big changes.

 

anyone know when the 2005 model rx8 will be available in the US? i plan on getting the rx8 within a month, however, if the 2005 model comes out, i should wait so that the price drops on the 2004 model...

 

I think headlight washers might also show up, as they seem to be on the Canadian cars, judging from Gordon's avatar photo... standard in Canada?

 

Yep headlight washers are standard in Canadian models. No Auto Climate control though

 

My wish list for 2005 is simple:

1) Re-work the ECU to provide 20-30 more HP

2) Re-design the ugly tail lights and change them back to the earlier concept RX-8 that had a clean 2-round lights on each side.

3) Increade the size of the exhaust tips. I have seen RX-8s with aftermarket exhaust systems and the larger tips make a huge difference in the looks of the car. The stock ones look wimpy while the larger ones compliment the surrounding bodywork much better.

That is it! I think this is doable. Simple, easy and would make this a much better looking and better performing car!

 

I LIKE the rear taillights...has an italian look to them

 

I'd just like to see them offer the MazdaSpeed body parts as factory options in order to defray labor/installation costs.

I love the front end and side skirts, but it pains me to pay for two front and rear ends plus installation when it's a Mazda part to begin with.

-Eric

 

Guys. Quit believing the dealers. Dealers don't know crap about whats coming out or not. About 80% of my friends work as Car designers and two of them are at Mazda/Ford in Irvine.

Even they don't get all the information. But one things for sure is that the convertible won't be available next year, if ever. They're still trying to decide. The only viable market for a 4 seat sporty convertible is the U.S. Remember, the Rx-8 isn't a 2+2. Its four seats.

It won't sell in Japan. The Lexus SC is a whole different market.
They also said that if they release the convertible, it will most likely be a 2 seater, but that will eat into Miata sales.

 

Yeah, I don't see a convertible coming, nor do I personally think it should. I think it'd look stupid, imo.

However, I DO want the MazdaSpeed Turbo bolt-on option w/ reflash. That would be stupendous to have a turbo that I could add as a Mazda party w/o voiding my warranty...