On an incomplete portion of the Mario Kart 8 website, we find details regarding Mario Kart 8's amiibo functionality. We also learn that this compatibility will be added via an update to be released on November 13.
The way amiibo will work with Mario Kart 8 is a little less incredible than you might have originally expected. By scanning a character figurine, you'll be able to dress up your Mii racer like said character. The full list of compatible characters includes Mario, Luigi, Yoshi, Peach, Donkey Kong, Link, Kirby, Captain Falcon, Samus, and Fox McCloud. That's more than the four that were previously confirmed at the Walmart amiibo display.
Now, does this update on November 13 suggest that the November DLC that brings Link, an Excitebike track, and more will arrive on the same day? Let's hope!