Along with the two other Mazda6’s, also run under the SpeedSource tent this weekend, will be looking for improved pace and reliability in what’s been a race against the clock just to make the grid, let alone develop the all-new powertrain and aero.

Three different Porsche Caymans are also entered, including the No. 16 entry from Napleton Racing. (Photo: John Dagys)

“It's been a huge amount of work,” Tremblay said. “We feel that we're as prepared as we can be. Obviously it's a new car and new program, so there's going to be niggles. But we've got a good team and hopefully they'll be able to resolve them quickly and keep us circulating until Sunday afternoon.”

The category as a whole, however, faces much uncertainty. Ten different models are eligible for GX, ranging from the Mazda and Caymans to the Chevy Cruze, BMW 1 Series and Nissan 370Z, but only three have so far committed. A Lotus Evora GT4 was tabbed for Daytona but withdrew earlier this month as it works through its final homologation process.

But with GX having a guaranteed place in the unified series next year, either as part of the Rolex Series GT class or its own category, GRAND-AM Managing Director of Competition Richard Buck says 2013 is all about gathering as much information about the class and its potential for the future.

"It's new ground and about new and different technologies,” Buck said. “I think it's a work in progress. As it starts to unfold and as we start to learn, I think this is a snapshot that will keep giving us data and information on where it will go in the future.

"I think there's an interest for the new technologies and people are looking to see how the Mazda runs and how they fare. I think that's where we're at today, just listening at what the industry is telling us.”

And while the drop of the green flag on Saturday will signal a new start for GX, it’s the potential future for the class that could be the most tantalizing prospect, especially if more manufacturers follow Mazda’s lead in delivering new technologies to the sport.

John Dagys is SPEED.com’s Sportscar Racing Reporter, focusing on all major domestic and international championships. You can follow him on Twitter @johndagys or email him at