Mazda's turbocharged RX-8 SP will be making its Australian rally debut at the 2009 Targa Tasmania. The RX-8 SP with 1,280kg, driven by Steve Glenney and co-driver Bernia Webb, will be competing in the "Showroom 2WD" class.

Developed by Mazda Motorsport Australia, the coupe is powered by a rotary turbo engine rated at about 275-horsepower, with a six-speed manual transmission sending power to the rear wheels. "The RX-8's perfect 50/50 weight balance will give it a huge dynamic advantage on Tasmania's twisting roads. That, combined with its torquey turbocharged engine, will make the RX-8 SP a standout at this year's Targa," says Glenney.

The grueling race runs from 28 April to 3 May 2009, and covers 1890 km including 40 competitive closed-road stages.