As you know, Mazda->ke53 is about to drop the RX-8 sports car from its lineup. Although sales will end at the end of 2011 for the USA, Europe has already axed the RX-8 due to the sports car not passing the latest European emission regulations. Basically, one of the last chances consumers will have to purchase the Mazda RX-8 will be in the last shipment to come out of the UK with 100 units being available.

The last shipment will contain the RX-8 R3, a version powered by an improved version of the unique 231ps twin-rotor engine. This sportscar will be priced at £25,540 and will make the 0-60mpg sprint in 6.4 seconds.

The interior of the RX-8 R3 features new Recaro sports seats in the front, a new-style steering wheel with audio controls, Bluetooth connectivity, and cruise control. Consumers will be able to enjoy the ambiance of the vehicle with the use of the new BOSE premium audio system with an eight-channel amplifier, 6-CD autochanger, nine speakers, and an auxiliary (AUX) input jack for connecting an MP3 player.

Press release after the jump.

Press release

While continuing to celebrate the 20th Anniversary of the world’s best-selling roadster, the Mazda MX-5, Mazda UK is saying ‘goodbye’ this autumn to a very different, although equally iconic sportscar in its model line-up – the rotary-engined, four-seater Mazda RX-8.

“British motorists love sportscars and engineering excellence, so it is no wonder that over the last seven years the RX-8 has been close to their hearts.  More than 26,000 enthusiastic drivers have purchased an RX-8 in the UK, won over by its truly exhilarating drive, fascinating super-smooth rotary engine and many unique features, combined with everyday reliability and practicality,” comments Mark Cameron, Sales Director, Mazda UK.

“Production in Hiroshima of right hand drive Mazda RX-8 for the UK market has now ended and here we have fewer than 100 examples remaining in stock.  Over the next couple of months drivers will be presented with a rare opportunity to acquire one of the very last RX-8s available in the UK.  Its immense driver appeal, the world’s only rotary-powered production car is still a head-turner, with tremendous road presence and styling that still looks fresh.  A few lucky customers are going to play a part in the grand finale of this motoring legend,” adds Cameron.

The 2010 embodiment of Mazda’s unique sports coupe, the Mazda RX-8 R3, is remarkably impressive for a host of reasons, including its freestyle doors that ensure easy access and also make it a ‘use-me-every-day’ kind of car.

Powered by an improved version of the unique 231ps twin-rotor engine, the latest car delivers a heightened experience with faster steering, chassis and engine responses, more refinement, more equipment and even greater value.  It continues to feature the front-midship engine, rear-wheel drive configuration of the original, delivering an ideal 50/50 weight distribution for fantastic handling characteristics.

“Mazda RX-8 R3 is the ultimate expression of Mazda’s DNA, demonstrating our brand’s determination to do things differently.  The RX-8 has won 37 major international awards and the R3 version delivers an even more focused and sporty driving experience, while retaining the original model’s many unique technical innovations and adding premium features,” concludes Cameron.

The Mazda RX-8 R3 is priced at £25,540 (on-the-road) and represents incredibly good value for a 231ps sportscar with the ability to reach 62mph in just 6.4 seconds.

The uniquely high-revving (up to 9,000rpm) RENESIS engine of the Mazda RX-8 R3 is evolved to deliver sharper responses.  Maximum power is 231ps at 8200rpm and the six-speed manual gearbox has a lower final drive ratio for a sharper getaway from standstill and improved performance feel.

The interior of the RX-8 R3 features new Recaro sports seats in the front, a new-style steering wheel with audio controls, Bluetooth® connectivity and cruise control.  Buyers will also enjoy the new BOSE®premium audio system with an eight-channel amplifier, 6-CD autochanger, nine speakers and an auxiliary (AUX) input jack for connecting an MP3 player.

Special finance offers until 30 September 2010

Mazda dealers are currently offering RX-8 buyers a finance package available for retail sales only, until 30 September 2010, with no deposit required and typical 5.9% APR* finance on Mazda Conditional Sale and Mazda Personal Contract Purchase up to 36 months.