‘Insane’ Number Of Enthusiast Employees Want A Rotary Sports Car

Mazda’s Rotary Renaissance: Will the RX-7’s Spirit Live On?

Mazda’s fascination with the rotary engine is a story decades in the making. Despite the MX-30 R-EV’s lukewarm reception, the dream of a dedicated rotary sports car hasn’t faded. The gorgeous Iconic SP concept, unveiled in 2023, continues to fuel speculation about a potential successor to the RX-7 or RX-8. But will financial realities allow this enthusiast favourite to become a production vehicle?

The Internal Push for a Rotary Return

The desire for a new rotary-powered sports car isn’t just coming from outside the company. Mazda Europe’s Project Manager, Moritz Oswald, revealed an “insane” number of car enthusiasts within Mazda are eager to see a flagship sports car materialize. This internal passion is a significant factor driving exploration of a spiritual successor to the iconic RX models.

‘The amount of car enthusiasts in this company is insane. Everybody loves cars, so of course there is a deep desire to keep on launching emotional products. So, are we looking into that? Yes, of course. But again, we are also a company that has to bring in revenues.’

Beyond the Range Extender: A Dedicated Rotary Sports Car

Early iterations of the rotary engine’s return, like in the MX-30 R-EV, utilized the engine as a generator to charge a battery. However, a production version of a new sports car would differ significantly. Mazda intends for the rotary engine to directly power the wheels, harking back to the traditional setup of the RX-7 and RX-8.

The Vision X-Coupe concept also showcased a rotary engine, this time in a plug-in hybrid configuration. Mazda is actively using these concepts to gauge public interest and assess the potential market opportunity.

The Financial Hurdle: A Business Case is Key

Despite the enthusiasm, the biggest obstacle remains financial feasibility. Mazda CEO Ryuichi Umeshita has acknowledged that the “only outstanding issue is financial.” The company has a dedicated team working on rotary engine technology, but a green light for production hinges on a strong business case.

Mazda recognizes the importance of balancing enthusiast desires with financial responsibility. The company is committed to continuing the MX-5 Miata, regardless of whether a larger, more expensive performance model joins the lineup.

What Does This Mean for the Future?

While a rotary sports car isn’t yet guaranteed, Mazda is clearly keeping the door open. The company is actively exploring the possibility, but a decision will likely depend on demonstrating sufficient demand to justify the investment. Don’t expect to see a new RX on the roads before the end of the decade, if it happens at all.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Is Mazda definitely making a new rotary sports car? No, a production decision hasn’t been made. It depends on financial viability and market demand.
• Will the rotary engine be used as a range extender again? Mazda intends for the rotary engine to directly power the wheels in a potential sports car, unlike the MX-30 R-EV.
• Will the Miata be discontinued if a new sports car is released? No, Mazda has confirmed that the MX-5 will continue regardless of other models.

Pro Tip: Keep an eye on Mazda’s official announcements and industry news for the latest updates on the potential rotary sports car. Enthusiast feedback is playing a key role in the decision-making process.

What are your thoughts on a potential new Mazda rotary sports car? Share your opinions in the comments below!