31/05/2008 02:15. MAZDA'S evolution of the RX-8 sportster will include a GT variant as the unconventional four-door coupe settles on the starting blocks for a July launch.

The rotary-powered RX-8 is expected to gain improvements in bottom-end driveability, increased horsepower, better emissions standards and reduced fuel consumption.

Specifics about the three-model line-up where the hard-edged GT version will join the standard RX-8 and RX-8 leather-pack versions are yet to be announced.

The GT is unlikely to feature any saving in weight over the current models, mainly because of its more robust chassis design, unveiled at the Detroit Motor Show in R3 specifications in January.

The GT will be reminiscent of the third-generation RX-7, adding sports suspension with Bilstein shock absorbers and... // Courier Mail