For several decades, the name Mazda RX Resonates like a legend in the automotive world. From RX-7 to RX-8, these Japanese rotary engine coupes marked their era by their mechanical singularity and their aura of passionate cars. But after more than ten years of absence, and in a context where electrification is essential, Mazda seems ready to revive this legendary line with a project that already fuels all rumors: the Mazda RX-9.
Contrary to the expectations of purists, this future RX does not intend to return as it has been known. The first clues, from the concept Iconic SP And information that filters from Hiroshima, suggest a modern interpretation of the recipe: a coupe larger than the MX-5, in the template of Sports GTwhich will combine neo-retro design and hybrid technology. The great feature would come from its rotary engine, no longer used to directly train the wheels, but as an electric generator, like the current Mazda MX-30 R-EV.
This technical orientation already divides enthusiasts: some see it as a betrayal of the RX spirit, others salute on the contrary a intelligent way of preserving the rotary soul while meeting the current ecological standards. What is certain is that the Mazda RX-9 could represent a daring bet : that of reconciling mechanical passion, electrification and historical heritage, in a segment of sports coupes in full change.
The return of a Mazda legend
To understand the importance of the RX-9 project, you have to come back to the history of the RX series. THE Mazda RX-7launched at the end of the 1970s, became a real myth thanks to its Wankel rotary engine, its lightness and its timeless style. A true icon of Japanese culture and the global automotive scene, it has experienced three generations and has established itself on both road and circuit. His successor, the Mazda RX-8launched in 2003, continued tradition with unprecedented antagonistic rear doors, but more limited success due to antipollution standards and criticized reliability.
Since stopping its production in 2012, enthusiasts have hoped for a return. Mazda has never hidden its attachment to the rotary engine, but long, it seemed incompatible with the modern requirements of consumption and emissions. The arrival of MX-30 R-EVwhich uses a small rotary engine as an extension of electric autonomy, has changed the situation: technology is back, but in an unprecedented role. The RX-9 could be the direct heir to this vision.
A design inspired by the Iconic SP concept and the RX-7
The first illustrations of the RX-9, although unofficial, are indicative of the stylistic orientation wanted by Mazda. They are directly inspired by concept Iconic SPpresented in 2023, which had already marked the spirits with its fluid proportions and its modern GT coupe. But they add a detail that will immediately speak to purists: a black band connecting the rear lights, a nod assumed to Second generation RX-7.
This mixture between modernity and historical heritage perfectly illustrates Mazda’s strategy: seduce nostalgic without losing sight of today. More imposing than the MX-5, the RX-9 could be positioned as a Japanese alternative to European coupes higher-end, while remaining faithful to sober elegance dear to the brand of Hiroshima.
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A rotary engine in generator: an upset revolution
The heart of the debate around the RX-9 obviously concerns its mechanics. Amateurs hoped for a return of the rotary engine as a main source of propulsion. However, everything indicates that Mazda will use this architecture only as an electricity generator For a rechargeable hybrid system. The rotary engine would therefore not turn the wheels, but would feed a battery which would propel the vehicle thanks to one or more electric motors.
This technical choice is rational: the rotary, compact and silent, excels in a constant diet, perfect for an extension of autonomy. But he disappoints the purists who associate the saga RX with the unique and explosive sound of the Wankel. Mazda takes a daring bet here: transform a symbol of mechanical passion into tool at the service of efficiency and hybridization.
A more GT positioning than Roadster
Unlike Mazda MX-5symbol of the light and accessible roadster, the RX-9 seems to be looming as a real GT coupe. Larger, more powerful, more oriented towards comfort over long distances than towards the raw pleasure of minimalist piloting, it could represent a rise in the sports offer of Mazda.
This strategic choice would allow the brand to differentiate itself in a changing segment: that of thermal or hybrid coupes, while many manufacturers abandon this market for the benefit of electric SUV. The RX-9 could therefore become a Japanese exceptionbetween ecological rationality and automotive passion.
What future in Europe and France?
In Europe, and particularly in France, the RX-9 will have to deal with strict regulations. Rechargeable hybridization and the use of the rotary engine as a generator could give it the advantage of a Favorable Crit’Air label And contained emissions, essential to exist on our market.
Faced with rivals like the Toyota GR86l’Alpine A110 Or the emerging electric coupes (Hyundai Ioniq 6 in sports version, Tesla Model 3 Performance), the RX-9 would play the card of technological originality. Its price remains unknown, but Mazda should bet on a Offer more accessible than European Premium GTin order to remain faithful to his philosophy.
