The Mazda Iconic SP concept made its debut today at the Japan Mobility Show with a novel feature that sports car fans have been clamoring for since 2012: a rotary engine.

The Iconic SP closely resembles the design vision the company showcased last year and is slightly bigger than the current MX-5 Miata, hinting at a modern take on the RX-7 lineage.

However, the Iconic SP differs significantly from the famed coupe. Instead of directly powering the wheels with its two-rotor engine, it charges an undefined battery that, in turn, feeds an undisclosed electric motor setup. Despite the lack of clarity about the powertrain, the output is impressive – exactly 365 horsepower. Mazda notes that the rotary engine can function on multiple fuel types, such as hydrogen and renewable fuels, and the battery is home-chargeable.

Aesthetically, the car manages its dimensions well. The compact engine arrangement allows for a lower hood and slimmer profile. The vehicle features contemporary Coke-bottle-shaped fenders that contrast nicely with its RX-7-inspired windows and rear section. The front showcases the company's current grille design, while the Venn-diagram-shaped taillights pay homage to both the NA-era Miata and the FC-era RX-7. The doors swing upwards in a manner similar to Aston Martin's swan wing doors, and the car is finished in a vibrant color named Viola Red.

Primary specifications of Mazda Iconic SP concept car

Overall length x width x height (mm) 4,180 × 1,850 × 1,150
Wheelbase (mm) 2,590
Weight (kg) 1,450
Maximum output (PS) 370
Power-weight ratio 3.9

In terms of technology, the fusion of electric plug-in and range-extending capabilities isn't groundbreaking for Mazda; the MX-30 PHEV employs a 0.8-liter single-rotor engine for battery maintenance. The Iconic SP's two-rotor engine might have a 1.6-liter displacement, given the single-rotor in the MX-30 measures 0.8 liters. Additionally, the engine can serve as a V2L generator, suitable for various applications ranging from social gatherings to emergency backup power.

Mazda labels the engine structure as adaptable, suggesting the renewable-fuel rotary tech could have broader uses. Home generators could employ smaller rotaries, while larger vehicles might connect multiple rotors for greater output. All in all, the Iconic SP concept aims to highlight Mazda's primary focus on driving pleasure.

On the inside, the Iconic SP exemplifies simplicity, featuring a digital dashboard, a small media screen, and a typewriter-like gear selector as the only interruptions to its sleek, fluid design. The kakenui stitching, first introduced in the CX-90 SUV, is present on the dashboard and door interiors. Furthermore, the seats are covered in biofabric, a term Mazda hasn"

Source: Mazda

Tags: Mazda
Евгений Ушаков
Evgenii Ushakov
14 years driving