Mazda’s iconic SP, expected to be the follow-up to the renowned RX-7, appears to be nearing production. This concept made its debut at the 2023 Tokyo Motor Show, where Mazda’s design head Masashi Nakayama unveiled it.
clarifying that
The model was created with genuine production intentions back in November 2024. In yet another recent interview with Nakayama, the Iconic SP is now even nearer to being ready for production.
The latest model from The Iconic SP now meets all current emission standards for rotary engines.
In a
Road & Track article
Published on April 15, 2025, Mazda’s head of design addressed the topic cautiously yet openly: The Iconic SP model is nearly complete. “I must tread lightly with my comments,” he stated, “but rest assured, everything necessary for mass production has been taken into account. It’s worth noting that rotaries face significant challenges when it comes to meeting emission standards—a key factor behind our decision to stop producing them back in 2012.” He continued optimistically, saying, “Overcoming this obstacle remains tough, however, substantial advancements were achieved over the past year and these developments look promising.”
Initially unveiled with rumors suggesting a range-extender featuring a twin-rotor configuration producing 365 horsepower, Mazda has since explored fresh advancements in rotary technology through the implementation of a single-rotor 830-cc range extender utilized in the MX-30 R-EV model. Despite not having confirmed which type of rotary engine the Iconic SP will employ, bringing this design into compliance with stringent emission standards such as LEV IV in the US and Euro 7 necessitates revitalizing Mazda’s rotary engineering division.
I opted to restart the rotary engine development team and assigned them a task,” said Mazda CEO Masahiro Moro to Road & Track, “which was to meet strict emission standards such as LEV IV in the US and Euro 7. We were aware that rotaries struggle with meeting these emissions requirements; this was why we chose to halt their production back in 2012. It’s quite a significant challenge for them, however, over the past year, the advancements have been notably positive.
A self-shifting gearbox coupled with retractable headlamps?
The head of technology at Mazda, Ryuichi Umeshita, further explained that should the Iconic SP come equipped with a powerful configuration, a manual gearbox would not suffice. It’s likely we will find either a quick-switching automated transmission operated via paddle shifters on the steering wheel, or potentially an entirely electric powertrain depending on the specific version of the vehicle.
And recall those retractable headlamps? “Technologically, we have the capability,” noted design boss Nakayama. “Take the present MX-5; it features an elevating hood designed for safety during collisions… However, the challenge lies in regulatory approval. If possible, we would be thrilled to bring them back.”
Final thoughts
What it really comes down to is this: Mazda must be convinced that consumers will purchase the Iconic SP should it hit the market. “Our next hurdle is… you have the opportunity to help us build a solid business proposition. From a technical standpoint, we’re nearly set; if we receive a favorable business case, we’ll proceed,” stated Umeshita. The question remains whether the market is prepared for yet another rotary-powered Mazda featuring advanced pop-up headlamps. Here’s hoping they are ready.
