2007/9 Mazda RX-8

Mazda has made serious changes to the rotary-powered RX-8 sports car. Although the core car remains, styling updates leave little doubt whether that RX-8 at the local Mazda Car Club meeting is a 2009 RX-8 or a 2008 RX-8. The changes start with new twin five-spoke wheels and revised front and rear fascias that make the RX-8 appear as though the owner has installed an aftermarket bodykit. The grille opening is reshaped (arguably less awkward than before) and the taillights are now composed of four circular lights, two on each side.

As the only rotary-powered sports car, the Mazda RX-8 was already unique, but has the automaker improved the styling for 2009? Compare for yourself with the 2009 RX-8 photos on the left, 2007 RX-8 photos on the right.