Mazda is finally giving enthusiasts a real reason to celebrate—a true spiritual successor to the RX-7 is coming, and it’s not replacing the Miata.
Unveiled as a concept nearly two years ago at the Japan Mobility Show, the Mazda Iconic SP is no longer just a dream. While rumors hinted it might morph into the next-gen Miata, Mazda’s CTO Ryuichi Ueshitas has confirmed: this rotary-powered coupe is a standalone sports car, built to sit above the beloved MX-5.
Beyond the Miata: A New Era of Mazda Sports Cars
People have been side-eyeing Mazda forever, just waiting to see if they’d finally throw us another beastly sports car to hang with the MX-5 Miata. Well, guess what? The rumors are true. Mazda’s CTO, Ryuichi Umeshita, basically dropped the mic and said the Iconic SP is coming—and no, it isn’t just a Miata in a different suit. It’s its own thing, living large right above the Miata in Mazda’s lineup. So don’t freak out, your beloved roadster isn’t going anywhere. The Iconic SP is all about kicking off a fresh era, while still giving a nod to that wild rotary engine legacy Mazda fans obsess over.
What Makes the Mazda Iconic SP So Special?
Let’s talk specs that matter to you. The concept Iconic SP is a total head-turner. It’s clocking in at 164.5 inches long and 72.8 inches wide—so yeah, definitely chunkier than your average Miata. But here’s the kicker: even though it’s beefier, it hugs the ground even lower, squatting a good 3.3 inches beneath the MX-5. That’s low. And don’t worry, they didn’t mess with tradition—it’s still rocking that classic two-seat setup. Because, honestly, what’s a sports car if you’ve gotta squeeze in a third wheel?
Under the hood, things get really exciting. The concept boasts a robust 365 horsepower, driven by an electric motor. But here’s the Mazda magic: a dual-rotor combustion engine acts as a generator to keep that battery juiced. The best part? Mazda has confirmed plans for this dual-rotor setup in America, and they’re ensuring it meets all U.S. regulations. Imagine the potential! They’re even considering a version where the rotary engine directly drives the wheels, harks back to the glorious RX-8 days.
Bigger, Bolder, But Still a Two-Seater
The production-bound Iconic SP is no small fry. With dimensions of 164.5” L x 72.8” W x 45.2” H, it’s longer, wider, and lower than the current ND Miata. It’s riding on a stretched 102-inch wheelbase, yet still keeps the intimate two-seat layout intact.
And get this—it only tips the scales at 3,197 pounds. Not bad at all, considering the monster it’s packing under the hood.
What’s Under the Hood? Meet the Rotary-Electric Beast
The Iconic SP concept uses a 365-hp electric motor, but here’s the kicker: it’s paired with a dual-rotor gasoline engine, used as a range-extending generator. Mazda is also teasing a version where the rotary engine powers the wheels directly—bringing back serious RX-7 vibes.
Mazda says a fully electric version won’t happen, staying true to the rotary spirit. But unlike the MX-30, this time the tech will be fully U.S.-compliant.
Launch Timeline & Pricing
Mazda is keeping the Miata around for a few more years, with the next-gen MX-5 adopting styling cues from the Iconic SP. But don’t wait too long—the SP might launch first.
Expected Price:
- Miata RF: Starts at $38,735
- Iconic SP: Expected at $50,000–$60,000+
What’s Under the Hood (Or Floor)?
- Electric motor output: 365 horsepower
- Powertrain: Dual-rotor gas engine as generator
- Layout: Rear-wheel drive
- Transmission: 6-speed manual (expected)
- Fully electric version? Not happening, says Mazda
RX-7 Spirit, Reimagined
Mazda’s Chief Technical Officer even said the Iconic SP could be a “good successor for RX-7,” though the legendary name itself might not return. Still, the DNA is clearly there: bold design, rotary power, two seats, and RWD. All the things’ enthusiasts crave.
What About the Price?
While no official pricing has dropped, expect the Iconic SP to be well north of $50,000, possibly even touching the $60K mark. That puts it in the same league as the Toyota Supra, Nissan Z, and even some base Porsches—so Mazda better bring the heat.
Key Highlights:
- Not a Miata replacement, but a step up
- Rotary-electric hybrid setup with 365 hp
- Longer, wider, lower than Miata
- Manual transmission and RWD likely to stay
- Launch expected before next-gen MX-5
- Price: $50,000–$60,000 (est.)
Final Thoughts
It’s way more than just another flashy concept car. It’s basically Mazda yelling, “Hey, we’re not giving up on rotary engines, no matter what!” but with a side of electric swagger. The design? Straight-up gutsy—like, it turns heads, and it knows it.
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