Some news has piled up, while each story doesn't really have all that much copy for a full story, combined, they do.

First The RX-8 has officially launched in Japan. "Powered by next-generation rotary engine 'RENESIS,' 5,000 pre-sale orders received in Japan " The RX-8 is now available at Mazda and Mazda Anfini dealers throughout Japan. Good news for those outside of Japan, the cars are coming our way. It typically takes 4-8 weeks to ship via ocean to the US, plus a few more days as "port options" are installed

Second New options have appeared on Mazda's website for the RX-8, including the "Rotary Accent Package" that adds a chrome rotor to the front and rear bumper area.

Next on the marketing front, the Mazda Rev-It-Up events are going well. Even though the event is an introduction to the Mazda6, RX-8s are being shown in tents, but not able to be driven. Also, the RX-8 Live parties is crossing the country. They tried to keep these events hidden from us and for those of you in New York, Miami, and New Orleans, the party has past. However, LA, Dallas, Las Vegas, San Francisco, Chichago and Boston are on the schedule. Check out http://rx8live.com for more info.

(Blake Qualley stopped by Dan's house in Las Vegas on his trip to Fl.)

FourthIf you happen to see a loud 1st gen RX-7 with a extra half to it, it is just Blake Qualley and his RX-7 and a half returning to Oregon from Florida after Grass Root Motorsports $2003 Challenge.

A Follow up to our "Predictions and Speculation" story. Mazda took notice. Not much can be given out right now, but keep the comments coming, and who knows, there may be a new RX-3 in your garage next to your boosted Mazdaspeed RX-8.

LastlyWith RX-8 launched in Japan, it only took hours for the aftermarket to show their body kits. The Mazdaspeed kit that was shown earlier this year will be sold starting in June for +$2000 (for the entire kit around $1100 for the front bumper, $800 for the pair of side skirts). AutoExe from Japan will start selling their body kits in July.