Mazda Teases RX-7 Successor with Iconic SP

After decades of silence on the high-performance sports car front, Mazda is finally revving up to reignite the passion of driving. The Japanese brand known for the legendary RX-7 and the universally loved MX-5 Miata is reportedly gearing up to bring the Iconic SP Concept to production — and it’s rotary-powered.

With a confirmed hybrid rotary setup and design DNA that bridges past and future, this could be the spiritual successor to the RX-7 enthusiasts have been waiting for. Even better, it might arrive as soon as next year, ahead of the next-gen MX-5, which is also in development.

Rotary Revival: The Dream Isn’t Dead

Mazda’s Chief Technical Officer, Ryuichi Umeshita, recently told Motor Trend that the Iconic SP is very much alive, and could enter production as early as 2026, depending on the business case. He boldly stated:

“You can expect Iconic SP will be a good successor for RX-7.”

While the nameplate is yet to be confirmed, with speculation surrounding RX-7, RX-9, or a completely new badge, one thing is clear: the car will not be called Cosmo. Mazda is keeping its cards close to the chest but strongly suggests the rotary engine will play a central role once again.

Hybrid Powertrain With a Rotary Heart

The Mazda Iconic SP isn’t just nostalgic — it’s technically bold. The concept debuted with a hybrid system producing a combined 365 hp (272 kW / 370 PS). It features:

• A dual-rotor rotary engine as a range extender
• A single electric motor
• A battery pack powering the drivetrain

Mazda is also exploring an alternative configuration where the rotary engine could directly power the car. Engineers are currently refining the next-gen rotary system, evolving from the MX-30’s setup, with emissions compliance and enhanced performance being top priorities — especially for the U.S. market.

Dimensions: Bigger Than the MX-5, Smaller Than RX-7

The Iconic SP concept sits perfectly between Mazda’s historic sports car benchmarks:

This puts the Iconic SP in a unique 2+2 coupe position — not a direct Miata competitor, but rather a complementary model that adds versatility without sacrificing driving spirit.

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Design and Market Position

Visually, the Iconic SP reflects a futuristic reinterpretation of Mazda’s Kodo design language, with sharp lines, sculpted flanks, and a poised stance. Expect much of this aesthetic to influence the next-generation MX-5 Miata, though that car will remain a lightweight two-seater roadster.

Mazda plans to keep the Iconic SP as a low-volume flagship, aimed at enthusiasts — not mass production. It will serve as a halo car, helping strengthen Mazda’s brand identity while carving out a unique niche in the sports car market.

What About the Next-Gen MX-5?

The current ND-generation MX-5 is aging gracefully but nearing the end of its lifecycle. Mazda has confirmed that development is underway for a new version, which will retain:

• Compact footprint
• Lightweight chassis
• Rear-wheel drive layout
• A likely naturally aspirated 4-cylinder engine
• Manual transmission availability

Expected to launch around 2027, the next Miata will feature the all-new Skyactiv Z powertrain, promising better efficiency and sharper performance.

Specs Summary (Iconic SP Concept)

Conclusion: A Rotary Renaissance for Mazda?

Mazda appears serious about reclaiming its sports car heritage, and the Iconic SP could be the crown jewel of that revival. It’s more than a concept car — it’s a statement that the rotary engine still has a future, and that Mazda hasn’t forgotten what made it special in the first place.

As we await production confirmation and final specs, one thing is certain: the RX-7 spirit is alive and ready to roar again — this time, with a hybrid twist.