Mazda Encounters One Last Challenge Before Launching A New RX-7 | Carscoops

      Company executives assert that they need to establish a robust business case for the sports car before permitting the Iconic SP to proceed to production.

      A recent interview with Mazda executives reveals that the Iconic SP sports car is a key focus for the brand. It has resolved fuel economy concerns and now just requires a compelling business justification.

      This isn't the first indication from Mazda that the concept may move toward production.

      Mazda certainly generated excitement during the unveiling of the Iconic SP. Not only did it appear to be the most authentic successor to the FD RX-7 we've seen, it also featured dimensions of 164.6 inches in length (4,180mm), 72.8 inches in width (1,850mm), and 45.3 inches in height (1,150mm), with a weight of 3,196 lbs (1,450 kg). Even more surprisingly, the company seemed genuinely committed to bringing it to fruition. Now, CEO Masashi Nakayama mentions that they require just one more element: a solid business case.

      The concept was first introduced in late 2023, and Mazda has been outspoken about it ever since. Initially, the idea was to utilize a two-rotor EV system for propulsion. By the end of last year, Mazda's design chief indicated that production would commence in the "not-so-distant future." A month later, Nakayama stated they were gradually progressing toward production.

      Emissions Obstacle Nearly Surmounted

      According to Mazda representatives, the company has successfully navigated nearly all significant challenges in preparing the Iconic SP for production. In conversation with Road & Track, Masashi Nakayama, the general manager of Mazda’s design division, disclosed that they have made significant advancements in fulfilling all the technical and regulatory prerequisites necessary to turn the car into a reality.

      “I must be cautious in what I say,” Nakayama remarked, “but we have ensured that it will be production feasible.” This includes complying with emissions standards like LEV IV in the USA and Euro 7 in Europe. “We are aware that the rotary is not efficient in meeting emissions, which is why we decided to discontinue it in 2012,” he explained. “That presents a considerable obstacle, but the progress made in the past year has been quite promising.”

      Mazda’s Chief Technical Officer, Ryuichi Umeshita, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the company's determination to make the Iconic SP a reality. Regarding rotary engine development, he shared, “We are currently developing the technology to meet U.S. regulations, and we have a very positive outlook now, so we are nearly ready. The next step is… you can help us create a viable business case. Technically, we are almost set - if we identify a good business case, we’re prepared to move forward.”

      Indeed, we are just one step away from the Iconic SP entering production. What remains is to assure Mazda that there are enough potential customers to justify the investment. Umeshita's comments suggest that the company has given this considerable thought.

      The Rotary Engine Context

      When the Iconic SP concept was initially revealed, it featured a rotary engine as a range extender to maintain battery charge while on the move. This configuration offered a combined output of 365 horsepower (272 kW/370 PS), a notable enhancement over the RX-7 and RX-8. However, Mazda has hinted that the production version might adopt a different approach, potentially transitioning to a more traditional hybrid system, as indicated by discussions about a transmission.

      Discussing the gearbox that could be integrated into the Iconic SP (or whatever the production version will be named), Umeshita stated: “If we decide – and we have yet to finalize anything – to venture into the super sports category, then [the gearbox] should be faster, likely not a manual, but rather an advanced transmission technology.”

      Therefore, one can anticipate features such as paddle shifters, either in a dual-clutch transmission for a hybrid model or a direct drive if it utilizes an electric motor to propel the wheels.

      Regarding the semi-pop-up headlights of the Iconic SP, Nakayama was questioned on Mazda's ability to implement them. “We can achieve it technologically,” Nakayama affirmed. “For instance, the current MX-5 has a deployable bonnet that lifts [in the event of an accident]…but the challenge is regulation. Of course, we would appreciate any support you could provide to help us realize it.” Essentially, he is seeking public backing to help push the concept to completion.

      Honestly, I believe that most of us wouldn't mind one way or another as long as they proceed with building the car.