Mazda’s Iconic SP Concept: A 3,197-pound Sports Car That’s Both Powerful and Eco-Friendly

Mazda Announces Production Plans for Sports Car Concept
Iconic SP to Feature Innovative Rotary-Electric Powertrain
Combining Rotary Engine with EV Technology

At the 2023 Japan Mobility Show, Mazda unveiled the highly anticipated Iconic SP sports car concept, combining its legendary rotary engine and modern electric vehicle (EV) technology. This innovative sports car is designed to offer enthusiasts the ultimate driving experience, maintaining Mazda’s commitment to driving pleasure while embracing eco-friendly technology.

The Iconic SP has generated significant buzz, with many speculating that it could be a successor to the iconic Mazda MX-5. While Mazda has not officially confirmed this, the automaker has expressed plans to move forward with production just one year after its debut, signaling that the concept is more than just a show car.

Compact Size, Impressive Performance
Concept Boasts 365 Horsepower

Mazda’s design chief, Masashi Nakayama, stated that the Iconic SP is not merely a concept but is intended to evolve into a production model soon. The production version will likely retain much of the concept’s design. While the final version could draw inspiration from the RX-7 and RX-8, there are hints that it may be sized similarly to the MX-5 roadster, offering a more compact and agile experience.

The concept features a lightweight build, combining a Wankel-type rotary engine and an EV drivetrain, delivering a total output of 365 horsepower. Mazda’s new dual rotary engine technology can use various eco-friendly fuels, including hydrogen, significantly reducing carbon emissions—up to 90% in some cases.

Engine that produces battery power
Ideal 50:50 weight distribution

It can also be powered by hydrogen like a gas turbine, and Mazda explains that it can drastically reduce carbon emissions by up to 90%. However, in the case of the engine, a range-extending electric vehicle system has been applied to generate electricity and charge the battery without actually intervening in generating output. It is similar to the e-SkyActiv R-EV applied to the MX-30 currently being sold by Mazda in the Japanese market.

Even though it is equipped with an engine, battery, and electric motor, the curb weight of the Iconic SP is only 1,450 kg (3,197 pounds). Since the engine is only involved in power generation, it is equipped with a compact rotary engine with a practical weight and size. In addition, it has the advantage of being able to install a light, low-capacity battery by receiving power through the engine. Another benefit is that the rotary engine installed here is close to the body’s center, realizing an ideal 50:50 weight distribution.

Meticulous Exterior Design
Blending Form and Function

Mazda emphasized that the exterior design of the Iconic SP was “meticulously researched,” with careful attention paid to every detail, including the positioning of the doors, tires, vehicle length, passenger seat height, and overall visibility. The design focuses on sporty proportions, featuring a long bonnet, flowing side curves, and a short rear overhang, highlighting the vehicle’s dynamic and athletic stance.

At the front, the Iconic SP sports a wide grille with a front splitter, which resembles lips, giving it a bold, aggressive look. Above the grille, a futuristic horizontal light bar and slim, pop-up headlamps enhance the vehicle’s modern appeal. The A-pillar houses a digital side mirror, contributing to the vehicle’s sleek design. Adding to its dramatic presence, the Iconic SP features butterfly doors that open upward. The cabin embraces a minimalist approach, with a screen mounted behind the steering wheel and another positioned above the center console. The dashboard is adorned with suede, creating a premium, refined atmosphere.