The Mazda RX-8->ke341 wasn't exactly a crowd pleaser with trickling sales damaging its already bruised reputation, so Mazda's decision to axe the car before any further damage could be done was a smart one to say the least. The car more than likely won't be missed, but Mazda has chosen to fill the void in their lineup anyway with a new model: the Mazda RX-9.

Built on the MX-5->ke1185 chassis, the new RX-9 will follow along Mazda's new "Kodo - Soul of Motion" design language as seen on the Shinari concept unveiled in 2010. The two-door coupe will weigh no more than 2,755lbs and will feature Mazda's->ke53 16X rotary engine paired with an electric supercharger. This engine will mated to a twin clutch, two pedal six-speed tranny and will deliver 300hp. However, the increase in horsepower from the RX8's 232 to the RX-9's 300 won't make for frequent trips to the gas station. This revised engine is said to improve fuel economy by 20%.

The official debut will be sometime in 2012 with sales to begin sometime in 2013. Yes, we know that's quite a bit of time to wait for the actual car, but at least we have these renderings fresh off the artist's desk to tide everyone over until that time.

Hit the jump for the second rendering of the 2013 Mazda RX-9.

The future RX-9 in an electric blue!