The Mazda RX-8 looks set to get a package of updates to bring to the Frankfurt Motor Show in September, according to German magazine
Amazingly the RX-8 has been with us for 8 years now, and this is the latest in a line of small refreshers that have tried to keep the four-door coupe looking modern.
Most obviously the bodykit is changed, with a new chin and rear spoiler, and deep side skirts. There are also nice new 19" smokey alloys and fatter exhaust pipes. Mazda also appeared to have joined the LED bandwagon, and remodelled the rear lights accordingly.
Under the bonnet things are mostly unchanged, though there is to be a second knock sensor which it's claimed will improve efficiency - something that will be music to the ears of many-an RX owner whose hand has become stuck in the 'fuel pump claw' position...
Inside the car more changes are to be found, with lovely red stitching all over the place, a snazzy new instrument binnacle and leather-rimmed steering wheel with command buttons, plus some new Recaro chairs to view it all from.
The new Nissan 370Z will obviously be looming large in Mazda's rear mirror about now, and the thirsty RX-8 has always been controversial, so Mazda will be hoping that these subtle tweaks are enough to keep this quirky motoring oddity relevant and interesting. If it stays £2k cheaper than the Nissan, they'll certainly be in with a fighting chance.