Mazda RX May Return: Rotary Engine to Drive Wheels Directly

Mazda is seriously considering reviving its iconic RX sports car lineup. According to the company’s European project manager, internal discussions about launching a new model that carries on the spirit of the RX-7 or RX-8 are intense, and a dedicated team has already been formed to advance rotary engine development. If the project moves forward, the new vehicle would feature a layout where the rotary engine directly drives the wheels—differing from the technical approach used in the earlier Iconic SP concept car. Although technical progress is on track and the initiative enjoys broad internal support, Mazda emphasized that the project’s ultimate approval hinges on financial viability. The Chief Technology Officer candidly admitted that the biggest hurdle isn’t technology, but rather ensuring profitability—a key economic threshold the RX series must clear before making its comeback.