The 2009 Mazda RX-8 R3 variant was a response to slumping sales of the RX-8 rotary-engined car. The model was priced above the Grand Touring edition RX-8 but more performance-focused. Mazda gave the R3 special sport-inspired seats, a new stereo inside, a new look bumper, and fog lamps on the outside. Bilstein shocks, larger wheels, and upgraded suspension to reduce vibration were added to increase performance. The R3 is only available in six-speed manual transmission but didn't come with an increase in power. In 2011 production of the R3 was only 950 examples before the RX-8 was discontinued a year later.