The Mazda->ke53 RX-8 is set to run off into the sunset in a year's time, but for one of Mazda's most popular models, the inevitable end only means being given a proper swan song before officially saying goodbye.

Before the curtain drops on the RX-8 next summer, Mazda->ke53 is preparing one final special edition model called the Spirit R. The car will be based on the manual version RX-8 Type RS and the automatic Type E and will be limited to only 1,000 units.

The two model variants of the RX-8 Spirit R will carry distinct styling features, including unique badges, fog lights and rear combination lights decked with black bezels, red painted brake calipers, a piano-black trim for the transmission tunnel, and a choice of three exterior paint finishes: Aluminum Metallic, Sparkling Black Mica, and Crystal White Pearl Mica.

On top of that, each model will have their own features. For the RX-8 Type RS trim, the added goodies include Recaro bucket seats and a special set of 19" bronze alloy wheels. For the RX-8 Type E trim, the changes include a black leather treatment on the interior with contrasting red stitching, a new sports suspension, larger brakes, and a set of 18" alloy in gun metallic finish wrapped in 225/45R18 91W tires.

The special edition RX-8 will drop in dealerships beginning November 24, 2011. So if you're a fan of the RX-8 and you want to give it the send-off it deserves, here's your chance to prove it.

UPDATE 05/02/12: Initially limited to only 1,000 units, the growing demand for the RX-8 Spirit has prompted Mazda to extend production of the special edition RX-8, adding another 1,000 models in the pipeline, thereby doubling the total number of this model to 2,000 units. So if you missed out on the first 1K, be happy that you get another shot of getting your very own RX-8 Spirit.

2011 Mazda RX-8 Spirit R

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2011 Mazda RX-8 Spirit R
  • Engine/Motor: Renesis engine
  • Horsepower: 232
  • Torque: 159
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array

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