Mazda: what if the new RX-7 came earlier than expected?

Mazda fans will be happy to know that the design boss wants to revive the RX-7. At least something similar to it.

Mazda thrilled the world last October by unveiling a new concept car. This shows an athletic design that was immediately reminiscent of the RX-7. Now, Mazda design boss Masashi Nakayama says he would like to see a production version of the concept become a reality. If the Iconic SP reaches mass production, it will rely on the hybrid technology of the MX-30. This uses a rotary engine as a range extender. Under the hood of the MX-30, this is not enough to attract many members of the rotary engine, but with such a body, the situation can change.

“I would like to make this car our next project. I really want to see him in the world,” Nakayama told our colleagues Top Gear. He added that its design resemblance to that of the third generation RX-7 was not a mistake. Mazda’s design boss called the car “a major source of inspiration” for his team. In the same spirit, he declares that the original power also inspired the design of the Iconic SP. “The RX-7 was marketed with the slogan ‘designed by Rotary,'” Nakayama said. “The rotary engine made this possible. With this in mind, our design incorporates many of the same features as the RX-7.

What is the power of the sports Mazda?

So the small rotary engine, battery and electric motors were all integrated into the coupe design. All to be as efficient as possible. Despite the controversy, Mazda said the Iconic SP has a perfect 50:50 weight distribution. Better still, it should be able to produce about 370 horses. The goal of Iconic SP is also to engage the subconscious parts of the brain, according to Nakayama. Take fancy pop-up lights for example. When asked why they were included in the design, he replied: ” Why not? It looks cool, right? ». In other words, It’s not about the practical or useful aspect that Mazda has focused on. But, in fact, look and feel. “Mazda’s classic design should evoke something deep in our minds”Nakayama said. “I explained that this goes beyond logic. This is the kind of design that Mazda will follow. Designs that really touch our hearts and minds”. This should reassure brand aspirants.

Really in one day?

Unfortunately, it is not clear if this idea will see the light of day. Nor when. So the Iconic SP could be ready by the end of the decade. But it is not necessary. However, on February 1, Mazda announced that it is reuniting the old engineering team responsible for rotary engines. Additionally, the entire dedicated department has been overhauled.