Shinka powers Mazda to new performance level
If you haven’t heard the latest word, its "Shinka."
Translated from a Japanese expression meaning "evolution" or "transformation," Shinka also is the newest Mazda RX-8 model.
Its debut at the 2005 Chicago Auto Show, coincided with the first deliveries of the Shinka Special Edition to dealers.
Weldon Munsey, RX-8 vehicle line manager for Mazda North American Operations said, "We’ve taken the RX-8 – a car already lauded by customers and media alike – to a new level of sophistication and exclusivity with the Shinka Special Edition.
"Improved ride and handling capabilities through a uniquely tuned suspension system, along with interior and exterior refinements, make the Shinka Special Edition the ultimate RX-8."
Those upgraded suspension components Munsey was referring to, includes specially tune dampers, and a foam urethane filled front suspension cross member for increased rigidity and more precise suspension movement.
Further body firmness was gained through reinforcement of the top-front portion of the A-pillars.
Ultimate power plant on the Shinka consists of a six-speed manual united with a 238 horsepower Renesis (Rotary Engine genesis) engine that spins to an invigorating 9,000 revolutions per minute.
A carbon fiber drive shaft is also part of the six-speed package.
For buyers who want to experience sports car performance without using a clutch, there is the four-speed Sport AT automatic.
Featuring steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters, the Sport AT is linked to a Renesis rotary that produces 198 horsepower, and is tuned specifically to take advantage of the automatic's gear ratios.
Keeping with its mystique, a single exterior color is offered on the Shinka and that is a rich black cherry mica paint that is highlighted with a ‘black light’ violet glow around the RX-8’s curvaceous body.
Other noted modifications are the polished semi-gloss bezels for the headlamps and rear combination taillights, as well as five-spoke, 18-inch aluminum wheels that have a polished pewter-like finish.
Along with the custom exterior color, a discreet Shinka label on the B-pillars behind the front door can identify this RX-8.
Complimenting the outside, Mazda’s interior stylists used a soft parchment tan leather that has double-stitched seams, plus, color-matched surfaces on the door panels.
Mazda added piano black finish on the side trim rails of the center console, and the upper spokes of the six-speed model’s steering wheel.
Most of the RX-8 instrument panel components normally finished in silver, are semi-gloss.
For audio buffs, the Shinka package includes a 300-watt Bose sound system with in-dash six-disc CD changer, and is the first Mazda model to have, as standard equipped, Sirius Satellite Radio with a one-year trial subscription.
Will all the enhancements, the manufacturer’s suggested retail price is $31,700, and $32,470 for the six-speed version.
Both models are six grand more than the standard RX-8 versions.
But, if first-class luxury, rotary power and individuality (only 2,150 units), rings your bell, hustle down to the local Mazda store and ‘evolve’ yourself into a 2005 RX-8 Shinka. |