Mazda unveils sports car concept with hybrid rotary powertrain

Mazda has today unveiled a new concept sports car called the Iconic SP that it will display at this week’s Japan Mobility Show. This got us thinking, could it one day become a production RX-9?

That very question becomes all the more valid when you hear about what’s under the bonnet, that being an electrified two-rotor powertrain. Yep, the rotary engine is back for more.

We should mention that the motor in this concept is essentially a range extender for the onboard batteries like the one found in the production MX-30 R-EV. It’s also run on carbon-neutral fuel, making it as environmentally friendly as possible.

Maximum power output is rated at 272kW, which is used to push the 1450kg car along at haste. However, there’s no mention of any performance specs.

Even though the concept is a hybrid, that’s not to say it isn’t fun as Mazda specifically developed the Iconic SP for people who love cars and enjoy driving.

Ensuring maximum entertainment on the road is its 50:50 weight distribution and low centre of gravity, two things which are said to offer “excellent driving performance”.

Mazda also says the Iconic SP can be used as a power supply when the lights go out at home, suggesting it features some sort of vehicle-to-home (V2H) system.

In terms of its design, we’re reminded of the third-generation RX-7 (FD) thanks to its somewhat similar dimensions (4180mm long, 1850mm wide, and 1150mm tall), as well as its pop-up headlights, and rear window shape.

Topping it all off is Mazda’s newly developed Viola Red paintwork which was created because of the Japanese carmaker’s desire to “cherish the colour red”. That and because it wouldn’t truly be a sports car without a standout finish.

“Mazda will always deliver vehicles that remind people that cars are pure joy and an indispensable part of their lives,” says Masahiro Moro, Mazda’s Representative Director, President and CEO.

“As a car-loving company that mass-produces the inspiring mobility experience, we are committed to shaping the future with our partners sharing the same goal, as well as our fans, where everyone can proudly say, ‘we love cars.’

Even if the Iconic SP doesn’t make it into production, there’s always the chance its design could preview the next-generation MX-5 – referred to as the ‘NE’ by enthusiasts – as we’ve previously speculated.