Mazda has long been a topic of speculation when it comes to producing a rotary-powered sports car. The Japanese automaker has never missed an opportunity to stir up the pot, and their latest move has only added fuel to the fire. In 2023, Mazda introduced the Iconic SP concept, which was touted as being designed for production. However, despite the automaker's attention being focused on the new CX-5 crossover and a stronger electrification effort, the project appears to be still on the table. According to Moritz Oswald, Mazda's product planning supervisor for Europe, the project is not dead despite the lack of progress. In an interview with Auto Express, Oswald stated that if there's a feasible way to make a rotary-powered sports car, Mazda will consider it. The MX-5 is seen as the automaker's "halo car" that embodies everything that Mazda products should be, and Oswald believes that there's a ...
Mazda has long been a topic of speculation when it comes to producing a rotary-powered sports car. The Japanese automaker has never missed an opportunity to stir up the pot, and their latest move has only added fuel to the fire. In 2023, Mazda introduced the Iconic SP concept, which was touted as being designed for production. However, despite the automaker’s attention being focused on the new CX-5 crossover and a stronger electrification effort, the project appears to be still on the table.
According to Moritz Oswald, Mazda’s product planning supervisor for Europe, the project is not dead despite the lack of progress. In an interview with Auto Express, Oswald stated that if there’s a feasible way to make a rotary-powered sports car, Mazda will consider it. The MX-5 is seen as the automaker’s “halo car” that embodies everything that Mazda products should be, and Oswald believes that there’s a “deep desire” within Mazda to launch “emotional products” like the Iconic SP.
However, Oswald also reminded everyone that Mazda is a company that “has to bring in revenues.” The question remains whether a rotary-powered two-door sports car is a viable option for the automaker. While the Iconic SP concept was impressive, the reality of producing such a car may be more complicated than initially thought.
Mazda’s decision to focus on electrification and the CX-5 crossover suggests that the company may not be committed to pursuing a rotary-powered sports car. However, the enthusiasm of enthusiasts and the potential for a unique product could still make it a possibility. As Oswald said, “if somebody will do it, it’s Mazda, because here the enthusiasts still make things happen.”
In conclusion, while Mazda’s plans for a rotary-powered sports car are unclear, the company’s commitment to producing “emotional products” suggests that they may still be considering the option. However, the feasibility of such a project remains to be seen, and it will be interesting to see how Mazda decides to proceed.
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