Mazda: The Rotary Engine Dream Is Still Alive

While the MX-30 crossover with a rotary engine to extend the range failed to attract buyers, the RX dream is still alive. An eventual new sports car positioned above the Miata has been the desire of many since the Iconic SP concept was shown in October 2023.

The beautiful concept hasn’t been given the green light for production, but company bosses aren’t closing the doors completely

In an interview with Auto Express, Mazda Europe’s project manager and product planning supervisor keeps the flame alive for the RX revival. Moritz Oswald said there are “crazy” numbers of enthusiasts at the company who want a new flagship sports car.

The Japanese brand is actively exploring the possibility of a spiritual successor to the RX-7 or RX-8, but the decision ultimately depends on financial viability.

“Of course, there is a deep desire to continue launching emotional products. So are we exploring that? Yes, of course. But then again, we are also a company that has to generate revenue.”

If the RX ever returned, Mazda would do things differently compared to the Iconic SP concept. In both the concept and the unpopular MX-30 R-EV, the rotary engine acts as a generator to charge the battery. However, the production RX would have a rotary engine that sends power directly to the wheels.

Last year’s Vision X-Coupe also featured a rotary system, this time in a plug-in hybrid configuration with a twin-rotor engine. Mazda insists that these concepts are more than just hints, as the company is using them to gauge interest in a possible return of the rotary engine: “We want to see how it resonates and what the feedback is to try to find out how big an opportunity we have.”

While Mazda has a dedicated team actively working on rotary engines and extensive internal support for the new RX, Chief Technology Officer Ryuichi Umeshita recently pointed out, “The only outstanding issue is financial.” If that is successfully resolved, it won’t come at the expense of the beloved Miata. The MX-5 will continue regardless of whether a larger, more expensive model joins the lineup.

Given that the RX revival has not yet been approved, it is unrealistic to expect the rotary sports car to appear on sale before the end of the decade.

• Read More: Mazda’s Next In-House EV Scheduled For 2027 Has Been Postponed