Mazda has used the Detroit Auto Show to show off a new facelift for the RX-8.

Styling has been tweaked, performance has been massaged and a hardcore sporting model developed for those that like their driving experience as focused as possible.

The front and rear bumpers are all new, as are the headlamps and LED tail lights and the 19-inch alloy wheels.

Inside, the instrument panel, steering wheel and seats have all been redesigned.

Engineers have improved the body rigidity by adding structural reinforcements to the suspension, which has also been reconfigured for better handling and reduced noise, vibration and harshness.

The gearbox ratios have been played with for increased acceleration from two rotary engines, one with 202bhp and the other with 228bhp.

A sport package called R3 will be made available, which adds sport-tuned Bilstein suspension, a new spoiler, sideskirts and front bumper, different alloys and Recaro sports seats.