Mazda RX sports car revival: rotary engine return under discussion
Mazda considers reviving the RX sports car with rotary engine
Mazda RX sports car revival: rotary engine return under discussion
Mazda is exploring a comeback for the rotary-powered RX sports car as a spiritual successor to the RX-7 or RX-8, focusing on profitability and technical innovation.
2026-02-10T06:32:21+03:00
2026-02-10T06:32:21+03:00
2026-02-10T06:32:21+03:00
Inside Mazda, discussions about bringing back the rotary-powered RX sports car are gaining momentum. The vehicle could serve as a spiritual successor to the RX-7 or RX-8. According to European project manager and head of product planning Moritz Oswald, interest among employees in creating an emotional flagship car has been surprisingly high.Mazda is indeed exploring various scenarios for the RX's development, but the company cannot afford to launch a model that fails to turn a profit. Financial sustainability remains the primary factor holding back a final decision. This would not be a concept car but a full-fledged production model.If the RX does return, it will take a different technical path than the Iconic SP concept. In a production version, the rotary engine would directly power the wheels rather than acting as a generator.Mazda has previously showcased concepts with rotary powertrains, including the Vision X-Coupe, to gauge market reaction. The company emphasizes that work on rotary technology continues at a high level, but the question of profitability remains unresolved.Mazda also stresses that a potential RX revival would not affect the MX-5, which will retain its place in the lineup regardless of whether a more expensive sports car appears.Mazda's cautious stance shows that even iconic models are now evaluated primarily from a business perspective. If the brand can align its rotary philosophy with a viable commercial model, the RX could return in a new, more pragmatic format.
Mazda is exploring a comeback for the rotary-powered RX sports car as a spiritual successor to the RX-7 or RX-8, focusing on profitability and technical innovation.
Michael Powers, Editor
Inside Mazda, discussions about bringing back the rotary-powered RX sports car are gaining momentum. The vehicle could serve as a spiritual successor to the RX-7 or RX-8. According to European project manager and head of product planning Moritz Oswald, interest among employees in creating an emotional flagship car has been surprisingly high.
Mazda is indeed exploring various scenarios for the RX's development, but the company cannot afford to launch a model that fails to turn a profit. Financial sustainability remains the primary factor holding back a final decision. This would not be a concept car but a full-fledged production model.
If the RX does return, it will take a different technical path than the Iconic SP concept. In a production version, the rotary engine would directly power the wheels rather than acting as a generator.
Mazda has previously showcased concepts with rotary powertrains, including the Vision X-Coupe, to gauge market reaction. The company emphasizes that work on rotary technology continues at a high level, but the question of profitability remains unresolved.
Mazda also stresses that a potential RX revival would not affect the MX-5, which will retain its place in the lineup regardless of whether a more expensive sports car appears.
Mazda's cautious stance shows that even iconic models are now evaluated primarily from a business perspective. If the brand can align its rotary philosophy with a viable commercial model, the RX could return in a new, more pragmatic format.
