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The Mazda Iconic SP concept could mean the return of the rotary engine

This compact sports car concept is equipped with a 365-horsepower rotary-electric powertrain.

Jerome Tresvalles on Oct 25, 2023

At the 2023 Japan Mobility Show, Mazda fully unveiled the Iconic SP, a compact sports car concept with a rotary engine serving as its beating heart. The low-slung sports car is slightly bigger than the MX-5 roadster and has styling cues lifted from Mazda’s Vision Study Concept that it showcased last year. Mazda enthusiasts with a keen eye will appreciate that certain design elements of the concept car, such as its low roof and front and rear windshields, harken back to the design of the RX-7, perhaps the most celebrated rotary-engined sports car.

However, the design and rotary heart are where the similarities end for the RX-7 and the Iconic SP. Unlike the RX-7, the Iconic SP’s twin-rotor engine is not used to drive the wheels but instead to charge its battery, much like the system inside the PHEV MX-30.

Related: An electrified Mazda MX-5 is possible—Report

Because it’s a concept car, Mazda has left out quite a number of technical details about the car’s powertrain. What is certain is that the rotary-electric powertrain can supply the small sports car with an impressive 365 horsepower. Mazda says that the rotary engine is adaptable to various fuels, including hydrogen, and the battery can also be recharged via a standard home outlet.

Despite its petite body, the Iconic SP is a heavy car, brought on by its electric powertrain. According to the company, the Iconic SP weighs in at 1,450 kilograms, making it about 363 kg more than the Miata.

“Mazda will always deliver vehicles that remind people that cars are pure joy and an indispensable part of their lives. 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.' With such a strong will, Mazda is committed to enrich life-in-motion for those we serve.”

Masahiro Moro
President, Mazda

As for the looks of the Iconic SP, there is no denying the fact that Mazda’s concept sports car is elegantly designed. Painted in a bespoke color called “Viola Red”, the Iconic SP embodies the qualities that people look for in a spine-tingling sports car. Mazda recognizes the emotional connection people make with their vehicles, and they have put this experience into the creation of the Iconic SP. As such, despite only being a concept vehicle, the Iconic SP is a stunning thing to behold.