A New Era for Mazda Sports Cars
Mazda has a long history of creating visually stunning concept cars that often never make it to production. From the Furai to the RX-Vision, many have been admired but never seen on the road. However, the recent unveiling of the Iconic SP concept at the Japan Mobility Show in October 2023 may signal a shift in this trend. Unlike previous concepts, there are strong indications that this new sports car could actually go into production—possibly alongside the Miata.
This development has sparked excitement among fans, especially considering the potential inclusion of a rotary engine. The idea of a new rotary-powered sports car is not just a nostalgic nod to the past but also a bold step forward for Mazda. The company has long championed the rotary engine, and with recent efforts to develop a dedicated team of engineers focused on its future, the possibility of a new model seems more tangible than ever.
Naming the Next Sports Car
For Mazda enthusiasts, the name of the upcoming sports car is as important as its design or performance. The RX-7 was succeeded by the RX-8, so it’s logical to assume that the next model might be called the RX-9. This would align with the brand’s tradition of using sequential numbers for its sports cars. Additionally, the Iconic SP concept has been described as a “good successor” to the RX-7, which further supports the idea of an RX-9.
However, Mazda is known for surprising its audience. While the RX-9 is a strong contender, the automaker might choose a completely different name. One thing is certain: it won’t be called “Cosmo,” a name that has already been used in the past.
Design and Appearance
The Iconic SP concept will heavily influence the design of the upcoming sports car. The concept measures 164.5 inches long and 72.8 inches wide, making it significantly larger than the ND-generation Miata. While the design could theoretically be scaled down, the concept was intended to showcase a larger, more powerful vehicle.
Key design elements from the Iconic SP, such as the sleek profile, rounded taillights, and angular grille, are expected to carry over to the production version. However, the pop-up headlights, a feature common in older sports cars, are unlikely to return. Patent filings suggest a carbon fiber chassis, though this could significantly increase the car’s cost.
Interestingly, the design of the new CX-5 SUV may also influence future models. Stacked headlights and the rear “MAZDA” wordmark could appear on upcoming vehicles, including the new sports car.
Powertrain Options
The most anticipated aspect of the new sports car is its powertrain. All signs point to a rotary engine, which would mark a significant return for Mazda. The Iconic SP concept featured a dual-rotor combustion engine paired with an electric motor, producing 365 horsepower. This setup provided impressive performance and a driving experience that left a smile on the face of those who tested it.
Mazda has confirmed the dual-rotor powertrain for the U.S. market, initially planning to introduce it on the MX-30 SUV. Although this hasn’t happened yet, the company has formed a dedicated team of engineers focused solely on rotary engine development. Mazda President and CEO Katsuhiro Moro emphasized the importance of overcoming challenges in the carbon-neutral era, stating that the team would work to push the boundaries of internal combustion technology.
The alternative option involves using the rotary engine to drive the wheels with hybrid assistance. Rear-wheel drive and a manual transmission are likely to remain, while a fully electric version is not under consideration.
Positioning in the Lineup
Despite being larger and more powerful, the new sports car will not replace the Miata. Instead, it will sit above the convertible in the lineup, offering a more premium and performance-oriented option. This ensures that the Miata remains a distinct and beloved model within Mazda’s range.
Pricing and Availability
Pricing details are still unclear, but it’s expected that the new sports car will be positioned as a premium product. It may compete with models like the Nissan Z and the outgoing Toyota Supra. A starting price of around $50,000 is a reasonable estimate, placing it slightly above the Nissan Z but in line with the Supra when it was first introduced.
Debut and Release Timeline
Mazda has not officially announced a release date, but industry insiders expect the car to debut in late 2026, with sales beginning in 2027. Until then, fans will have to wait for more official details, but the anticipation is growing.