Sounds Like Mazda Is Working On A New RX-7
Mazda’s long-rumored return to rotary-powered performance is shaping up as the Iconic SP concept inches closer to a production reality.
Key Points
- The Iconic SP is intended as a spiritual successor to the RX-7.
- It is expected to use a dual-rotor hybrid setup, including an electric motor supported by a twin-rotor rotary engine acting as a generator.
- Mazda is also exploring a variant where the rotary directly powers the wheels, reviving a drivetrain layout last seen in the RX-8.
Speaking with MotorTrend, Mazda Chief Technical Officer Ryuichi Umeshita confirmed that the Iconic SP will be a distinct model, one intended to sit above the MX-5 Miata in the Japanese automaker's lineup. Umeshita even went as far as calling the concept a “good successor for RX-7,” though he stopped short of confirming that the legendary badge would return.
At 164.5 inches long and 72.8 inches wide, the concept coupe is over 10 inches longer and nearly 5 inches wider than the current ND-generation Miata. It's also nearly three and a half inches lower, and its 102-inch wheelbase offers more length between the axles than even the RX-7 FD.
The Iconic SP concept pairs an electric motor with a dual-rotor Wankel engine that acts as a range extender. Combined output is rated at 365 horsepower. This next-gen dual-rotor setup will be made emissions compliant for the U.S. market.
Mazda is believed to be exploring a version where the rotary engine drives the wheels directly, a nod to traditionalist expectations and a potential bridge to the RX-8, the last rotary-powered production car. A fully electric version has reportedly been dismissed internally.
The timeline for launch remains unclear—Mazda hasn't even decided what to call it—but the new rotary-powered sports car is likely to arrive before the next MX-5. Mazda’s design chief, Masashi Nakayama, confirmed that the current Miata will remain in production for several more years.
As for the price, it’s too early for official figures, but the Iconic SP’s positioning above the Miata suggests a premium entry point. With the Miata RF starting just shy of $39,000, the production SP is likely to land above $50,000, possibly reaching into the $60,000 range depending on final specifications.
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An experienced automotive storyteller and accomplished photographer known for engaging and insightful content. Michael also brings a wealth of technical knowledge—he was part of the Ford GT program at Multimatic, oversaw a fleet of Audi TCR race cars, ziptied Lamborghini Super Trofeo cars back together, been over the wall during the Rolex 24, and worked in the intense world of IndyCar.
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This looks to me like a money down the drain with rotary motor.