Freedom is priceless, and even more so in the automotive sector. Being an independent company, unattached to any other manufacturer or partner, is something not all brands can afford. The reason for this is quite simple: the necessary economies of scale for developing new models . However, every rule has its exceptions, and Mazda is one of them. It's true, they have collaboration agreements with Toyota, but these are occasional.
Thus, thanks to this freedom of movement, it has been able to "go against the grain" of the entire industry. Its history is full of noteworthy aspects, although the best known are its rotary engines and the SKYACTIV technology of its diesel and gasoline engines. Then there's the MX-5, the best-selling convertible in the world. And now, with the Mazda Iconic SP, they want to make history again, as it is a very special model that is already on its way.
The Mazda Iconic SP will not be the replacement for the MX-5... it will be the first electric sports car from the Hiroshima house...
In case you've been living under a rock this past year, we'll remind you that the Mazda Iconic SP was unveiled at the 2023 Japan Mobility Show . We were pleasantly surprised because this model clearly demonstrated that the Hiroshima-based automaker would continue to invest in sports cars. That said, initially it was thought to be the MX-5's replacement . But nothing could be further from the truth, as their roadster will be around for a while longer.
The Iconic SP is a sports car that has nothing to do with the MX-5 concept and therefore represents a new line of business for the Japanese brand. It's not the first time they've had a similar model in their lineup. Just look back and remember the RX-7, RX-8, or the "sleuth" MX-3 equipped with that wonderful 1.8-liter V6 engine producing 133 hp . Well, with this new sports car, they're embarking on a challenging adventure, to say the least.
Taking advantage of the 2024 Tokyo Motor Show, Mazda executives discussed their plans for the future. Among other things, they explained that…
“The Mazda Iconic SP, which debuted at last year’s Japan Mobility Show, is a solution that adapts to the times, even as times change , and provides a solution that demonstrates that cars can be cool and fun. This is a compact sports car that encapsulates our desire to keep doing so .”
Therefore, it's clear that (unless something major happens and the project is canceled) this model is continuing its design and development. So sooner or later (because there's no official debut date) it should reach the market . Furthermore, the brand's representatives have given more clues about its powertrain…
It will be an extended range electric car thanks to a rotary motor with two rotors…
In the official press release published by the brand, we can read that…
"This unique system, which uses a two-rotor rotary engine as a generator , can be used as a battery-powered electric vehicle (BEV) , allowing you to freely use electricity when you're out and about. The system delivers 370 horsepower and has a power-to-weight ratio of less than 4 kg , making it a top-of-the-line product. This concept car received a lot of support and encouragement."
Furthermore, one of the images they used to illustrate their presentation included some additional data . So…
- It measures 4,18 meters long, 1,85 meters wide and 1,15 meters high.
- Wheelbase of 2,59 meters.
- Weight-power ratio of 3,9 kilos-CV.
- Maximum power of 370 HP.
- Weight on scale of 1.450 kilos.
Additionally, some media outlets are reporting on rumors. For example, that it will have all-wheel drive and a 0-100 km/h acceleration time of under 5 seconds . Whatever the case, Mazda's decision to develop the Iconic SP demonstrates their confidence in their work and in each and every customer who loves the brand. Now we just have to wait for them to announce an official debut date…
It's time to be patient...
Source – Mazda
