Mazda is setting a new course for its sports car legacy, with the eagerly anticipated rotary-powered vehicle, inspired by the captivating Iconic SP concept, slated to launch as a premium offering alongside the venerable Miata. This strategic move signals Mazda's ambition to cater to a broader spectrum of sports car enthusiasts, delivering a more powerful and distinct driving experience without overshadowing its beloved roadster. The new model, designed to embody the spirit of the iconic RX-7, promises a blend of traditional rotary performance and modern electrification, marking an exciting chapter in the brand's storied history.
Mazda's Vision for a Powerful New Sports Car and Miata's Future
In a significant development for automotive enthusiasts, Mazda’s Chief Technical Officer, Ryuichi Umeshita, recently shared insights with MotorTrend regarding the future of the company's sports car lineup. The stunning Iconic SP concept, first unveiled almost two years ago at the prestigious Japan Mobility Show, will transition into a production vehicle. Crucially, this new sports car will not be the next iteration of the Miata but will instead occupy a higher segment, serving as a spiritual successor to the legendary RX-7. Umeshita explicitly stated that the new model will not revive the "Cosmo" nameplate, despite its historical ties to Wankel engine technology.
The Iconic SP, in its concept form, boasts impressive dimensions, measuring 164.5 inches in length, 72.8 inches in width, and a mere 45.2 inches in height, with a wheelbase spanning 102 inches. This makes it notably larger than the current ND-generation Miata, being 10.4 inches longer and 4.7 inches wider. Despite its increased size and a curb weight of 3,197 pounds (728 pounds heavier than a manual Miata RF), the concept remains a two-seater, emphasizing its pure sports car credentials. Under the hood, the concept featured a 365 horsepower electric motor complemented by a dual-rotor combustion engine acting as a generator. Mazda has since confirmed its intent to introduce a dual-rotor setup in the American market, which will surpass the power output of the single-rotor range extender found in the MX-30. Furthermore, Mazda is exploring the intriguing possibility of a configuration where the rotary engine directly propels the wheels, a feature not seen since the RX-8's departure in 2012. A fully electric variant has, however, been ruled out by the automaker.
Looking ahead, the new rotary sports car is anticipated to arrive before the next-generation Miata. Mazda’s global design chief, Masashi Nakayama, affirmed that the current MX-5 will continue its reign for several more years. When the successor eventually emerges, it is expected to incorporate design elements from the Iconic SP. Power for the future Miata will likely come from the recently unveiled Skyactiv-Z engine, and enthusiasts can rejoice as the company pledges to retain the manual transmission, rear-wheel drive, and lightweight construction that define the Miata driving experience. While pricing details for the new rotary sports car are yet to be announced, it is projected to command a significant premium over the Miata, with estimates placing its cost upwards of $50,000, potentially exceeding $60,000, in contrast to the Miata RF's starting price of $38,735.
This announcement from Mazda signifies a bold step into the future, harmonizing its iconic rotary heritage with contemporary automotive advancements. From a spectator's standpoint, this move underscores Mazda's unwavering commitment to innovation and its passion for crafting exhilarating driving machines. The decision to position the new rotary sports car above the Miata, rather than as a replacement, is particularly commendable. It allows both models to flourish, catering to distinct segments of the sports car market. The Miata can continue to embody the essence of affordable, lightweight driving pleasure, while the new rotary model can push boundaries in performance and technology, appealing to those seeking a more potent and sophisticated experience. This strategic duality suggests Mazda is not merely chasing trends but is deeply invested in preserving its unique engineering philosophy. The return of a direct-drive rotary engine option, in particular, will be a monumental moment for purists, rekindling the visceral connection between driver and machine that rotary engines are celebrated for. This development could truly cement Mazda's reputation as a brand that dares to be different, offering a compelling alternative in an increasingly homogenized automotive landscape.