Mazda is reintroducing the Rotary RX-7 and developing a new Miata | Carscoops

      The successor to the RX-7 may be introduced as soon as next year if Mazda can validate its business case.

      Mazda is in the process of designing two sports cars, including a successor to the RX-7 and the next-generation MX-5.

      The rotary engine model could make its debut next year featuring a range-extender hybrid powertrain.

      Meanwhile, the new MX-5 is still a few years away and might include Mazda’s upcoming Skyactiv Z engine.

      It has been a considerable amount of time since Mazda focused on creating something entertaining apart from the MX-5. Once known for the RX-7 and the original Miata, the brand has been relatively quiet regarding sports cars over the past couple of decades. This situation may be changing. The production version of the Iconic SP concept, a sports car powered by a rotary engine, could potentially launch as soon as next year, potentially stepping in as a spiritual successor to the RX-7.

      Moreover, it is anticipated that this model will be available alongside the new MX-5 Miata roadster, although that one will not arrive for several more years.

      Upon first glance, the 2023 Iconic SP concept may appear to be a hardtop evolution of the forthcoming MX-5. However, it is, in fact, somewhat larger than it seems. Measuring 4,180 mm (164.6 inches) in length, it is 265 mm (10.4 inches) longer than the existing ND-generation MX-5 and sits 105 mm (4.1 inches) shorter than the classic RX-7 FD. Essentially, it neatly occupies the space between Mazda's previous and current sports car identities.

      **Rotary Engine Revival with a Hybrid Variation**

      In a conversation with Motor Trend, Mazda's Chief Technical Officer Ryuichi Umeshita confirmed the hopes of many: "You can expect Iconic SP will be a good successor for RX-7." His remarks align with prior comments from Mazda President and CEO Masahiro Moro, who expressed a desire for the return of the rotary sports car. Therefore, the dream of a rotary revival lives on.

      Interestingly, Umeshita mentioned that "Initial discussions suggested it could go into production as early as 2026, but the timeline depends on a viable business case." On the technical side, progress is swift as he noted that the next generation of Mazda's rotary engine is nearly ready.

      The naming of the vehicle remains uncertain. When asked if the new sports car would carry the RX-7 or RX-9 designation, Umeshita remained noncommittal, indicating that the model is not intended to directly replace any existing nameplate, though it could resurrect a former identity or introduce a completely new one. He did clarify that it will not be named Cosmo, a title earlier associated with Mazda’s luxury coupes sold abroad.

      **Hybrid Power with Rotary Essence**

      The hybrid system of the Iconic SP is reported to yield a combined output of 365 hp (272 kW / 370 PS). It incorporates a dual-rotor rotary engine functioning as a range extender, combined with a single electric motor and a battery pack. The production variant is expected to employ a similar configuration. Nonetheless, Mazda might also provide a second version, this time with the rotary engine as the primary source of propulsion.

      Umeshita stated that engineers are currently enhancing the rotary range-extender used in the MX-30 crossover, which will have increased power and adhere to U.S. emission standards.

      The coupe's development seems to be a priority for the company, leading to hopes that executives will soon fulfill their commitments. Regarding sales goals, the RX-7 successor is anticipated to be a low-volume offering, with Umeshita asserting it will "complement" rather than compete with MX-5 sales.

      **Next-Generation MX-5 Coming Soon**

      The current ND-generation MX-5 has been available since 2014, making it feel like it's aged significantly in car years. Naturally, there is curiosity about when the next iteration will arrive. The response: not just yet. While development is ongoing, the release is still a few years away. As such, the current model, known for its classic proportions and precise handling, will remain for a while longer.

      Design chief Masashi Nakayama shared with Motor Trend that the upcoming roadster will maintain the compact size, lightweight nature, and affordability that have characterized prior MX-5 generations, while "everything else" will be refined. Visually, the next Miata is expected to heavily draw from the design language of the Iconic SP concept, just scaled down for a smaller size.

      Unlike the RX-7 successor, which will be a 2+2 coupe, the MX-5 will continue to be a two-seater roadster. Importantly, it will feature a four-cylinder gasoline engine, helping it differentiate itself from the rotary-powered hybrid sports car while keeping an affordable price range.