Mazda MX-5,called the Niseko,debuted last week at the Leipzig Motor Show.It gets a striking bodykit as standard impresses with it’s variety of whites.

The Niseko is named after the most prestigious ski resort in Japan, and will also be available in the UK – although the European model’s bodykit is a cost option here. British buyers get Icy Blue paintwork and dark brown leather seats.

At the Leipzig Motor Show also debuted the Citroen C5 Estate, Lancia Delta and Toyota IQ city car.

Organisers clearly had an eye on the environment, as large areas of the expo were devoted to vehicles powered by alternative fuels – such as Porsche’s hybrid Cayenne and the Efficient Dynamics BMW X6.

The RX-8 has been one of Mazda’s most appreciated models, getting great feedback from the Japanese manufacturer’s clients and numerous awards, including some “car of the year”. With the new generation Mazda proves it can do better.

Powered by the same, revolutionary rotary engine, the new RX-8 is as impressive as its predecessor, RENESIS can go up to an amazing 9000rpm, whilst being around 60% smaller than a similarly powered V6 engine. You’ll be able to choose between the 232hp model, with a six-speed manual transmission, or the 212hp, six-speed automatic transmission model, with shifting paddles mounted on the steering wheel.

Fans of the RX-8 will be very pleased with its new look, because Mazda has decided not to change a whole lot. The front and rear bumpers have been slightly restyled, the front and rear headlights have been replaced by new ones, sporting the LED technology, and the exhausts are noticeably larger (90mm in diameter). The line of the car remains unchanged however.

The new RX-8 proves that a sports-car can be very aggressive and comfortable at the same time, thanks to its innovative rear door hinges, which makes getting in and out of the back seats a breeze.

Judging by what we’ve seen so far, Mazda has another hit on its hands. Continue reading »