Mazda’s plans for a rotary-powered sports coupe, initially fueled by the excitement surrounding the 2023 Iconic SP concept, are facing significant hurdles. While internal enthusiasm for a new RX-7-style flagship remains high, the company’s financial realities cast doubt on its production.
The Enthusiast Dream
Mazda Europe’s planning chief, Moritz Oswald, confirmed the ongoing discussion around the Iconic SP. He acknowledged the “insane” number of car enthusiasts within the company who deeply desire to launch “emotional products.” This sentiment aligns with previous statements from Mazda’s design chief, Masashi Nakayama, who suggested the concept wasn’t merely a show car but a precursor to a future production model.
The Financial Reality
However, Mazda executives also emphasized the critical importance of profitability. Oswald stated that while the company could engineer a compelling $100,000 sports car, ensuring sufficient sales to justify the investment is far from guaranteed. The MX-5 remains Mazda’s primary “halo car” due to its proven market viability.
Powertrain Considerations
If a rotary sports car does materialize, Mazda R&D suggests a more direct powertrain setup than the initial Iconic SP concept. The SP used its rotary engine as a generator for electric motors, but enthusiasts want to feel the engine’s power directly, potentially through a parallel hybrid system.
The Future Outlook
The conflicting statements from Mazda Europe and the company’s design team reveal a strategic divide. Mazda seems more inclined to prioritize financially stable products rather than risky ventures. The Iconic SP may instead serve as a design preview for the next-generation MX-5, or the rotary powertrain could appear in a different vehicle entirely, such as the Vision X four-door coupe.
Ultimately, Mazda’s decision hinges on balancing its engineers’ passion with the demands of the market. The dream of a new RX-7 remains alive, but its future is uncertain.
