Mazda has chosen to swim against the tide with a proposal that takes up one of the most important icons in its history: the RX-7. Although the exact model has not yet been officially presented, the Japanese firm has already confirmed that it is working on a new sports coupe that will use hybrid technology with a rotary engine.

The news was revealed by Ryuichi Umeshita, technical director of Mazda, in an interview with Motor Trend magazine. Far from a simple rumor, the senior executive's statements made it clear that the brand is committed to reviving the sporting spirit that once defined its identity.

The conceptual basis for this return is the Mazda Iconic SP, a prototype presented in 2023 that marked a before and after in the company's design and propulsion strategy.

With aggressive lines, contained proportions and innovative mechanics, this concept has become the benchmark for the future production coupe.

Iconic SP: a preview of the upcoming RX-7

The design of the Iconic SP is not just an exercise in style: it is a statement of intent. At 4,180 mm long, it sits between the compact MX-5 and the now-defunct RX-7 FD, with a silhouette that captures the essence of the classic without going retro-futuristic.

But the most interesting aspect lies beneath its bodywork. Unlike the MX-5, which will continue to use a conventional petrol engine, the RX-7's successor will incorporate a hybrid system that combines an electric motor with a Wankel rotary engine, which will function as a range extender.

Although the final technical specifications have not been revealed, various leaks point to an estimated power output of 365 hp (272 kW).

This would be a configuration that would allow for both efficiency and sportiness, combining the best of both worlds: the instant response of the electric motor and the unique personality of the rotary engine.

“The Iconic SP will be a worthy successor to the RX-7,” said Umeshita. With that statement, Mazda makes it clear that, although the name is not yet finalized, the essence of the new model is closely linked to its most beloved coupé.

A rotary engine adapted to the new times

The return of the rotary engine, a technology that was once synonymous with Mazda, is not a simple nod to the past. In fact, it represents an ambitious technical challenge that the brand has been working for years to adapt to modern standards.

Umeshita confirmed that the new rotary engine is in an advanced stage of development and that it will comply with emissions regulations in the United States, one of the most demanding markets in this regard.

This has been a key obstacle for the brand in the past, and overcoming it marks a milestone for the return of this unique engine.

Although the engine will not directly drive the wheels (its role will be to range extender, similar to what's seen on some range-extended electric models), its presence ensures that the rotary character won't disappear completely.

RX-7, RX-9, or something completely new?

Amid the excitement surrounding its return, there's one detail that Mazda has kept completely secret: the name.

Many fans are hoping that the RX-7 name will be revived, or failing that, the RX-9, as has been speculated for years. However, Umeshita was emphatic in clarifying that it will not be a direct replacement for any previous model.

This opens up the possibility of a new nomenclature, something that could mark the beginning of a new era within the brand's sports car lineage. What was ruled out was the possibility of using the name "Cosmo," historically associated with luxury models from the 1990s. "It won't be Cosmo," the executive indicated.

Beyond the name, what is known is that The coupe will adopt a 2 + 2 configuration, that is, two front seats and two small rear seats, ideal for those who want a touch of practicality without giving up aesthetics and sporty handling.

Release date and market position

Initially, there was talk of a possible launch in 2026. However, as Umeshita warned, "everything depends on economic viability." Mazda is still evaluating whether the model can justify the costs of large-scale production, which could accelerate or delay its debut.

If it gets the go-ahead, this sports car could go into production as early as 2025, which would place it in a privileged position within the market.

It would be a direct rival to models such as the Toyota GR86 and the Subaru BRZ, although with one key difference: its hybrid proposal would make it more technologically advanced.

With its combination of bold design, unique hybrid system, and rotary engine, Mazda is not only looking to compete on performance figures, but also on innovation. This sports car aims to be an aspirational model within the brand's catalog.

The MX-5 Miata will follow its own path

While the new coupe arrives, the legendary MX-5 Miata will continue its evolution along a different path. Masashi Nakayama, Mazda's head of design, confirmed that the next generation of the Miata is planned for after 2027, and will maintain the keystones that have made it an icon: light weight, rear-wheel drive, and fun handling.

A new Skyactiv-Z engine will be incorporated, more efficient and powerful, but without abandoning its mechanical heritage. And, something that will please purists: the manual transmission will remain available, even in an age where automatic and power-assisted transmissions dominate.

With this, Mazda aims to offer two distinct sporty lines: a traditional roadster with a gasoline engine and a modern coupe with hybrid technology. Both, however, share a common philosophy: putting the driving experience at the heart of development.