Mazda unveils Iconic SP concept as a vision for future sports cars

Updated Oct 27, 2023 | Same topic: Automotive Industry Updates

The concept gets a 365-hp two-rotor hybrid powertrain.

Mazda revealed the Iconic SP concept at the Japan Mobility Show as the brand’s vision for future sports cars in the electrified era. The concept is said to be a response to the emotions of customers who “love cars” and “desire a car that simply embodies the joy of driving.”

Mazda Iconic SP front view

Mazda Iconic SP

When the Iconic SP was first teased, we thought it would be completely based on the Mazda MX-5. But looking at the styling cues, the concept is reminiscent of the brand’s iconic sports car, the RX-7. It even has a rotary engine similar to the said model.

To be more specific, the concept uses a two-rotor rotary hybrid system that serves to generate power for the vehicle’s battery. The power unit can run on hydrogen and other carbon-neutral fuels, enabling a zero-tailpipe emission drive. According to the Japanese automaker, the hybrid system makes 365 horsepower.

Mazda Iconic SP interior view

The interior gets a simplistic layout

The Iconic SP is larger than the MX-5. It spans 4,180 in length, 1,850 mm in width, and 1,150 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,590 mm. Mazda also designed the concept to have a low center of gravity and achieve a 50:50 weight distribution.

Like the Mazda RX-7, the Iconic SP features pop-up headlights. This type of setup was banned on the road for safety reasons. But we reckon it is a good touch to the overall sleek design. To round off the design, the vehicle is finished in the vibrant Viola Red concept color.

Mazda Iconic SP rear view

A glimpse into future Mazda sports cars

“Mazda will always deliver vehicles that remind people that cars are pure joy and an indispensable part of their lives. As a car-loving company that mass-produces the inspiring mobility experience, we are committed to shaping the future with our partners sharing the same goal, as well as our fans, where everyone can proudly say, 'we love cars’,” said Mazda President and CEO Masahiro Moro.

“With such a strong will, Mazda is committed to enrich life-in-motion for those we serve,” added Moro.

Don’t miss the latest car concepts at Philkotse.com.

Know more about Mazda

Mazda

Mazda Motor Corporation is a Japanese-grown brand that began in the city of Hiroshima. In January of 1920, the company was established as Toyo Kogyo Corporation under the ownership of Jujiro Matsuda. They were considered to be Japan’s best cork producers that eventually made a name for themselves in manufacturing machining tools. Soon after, Matsuda ventured into producing the first motorized rickshaw in the market. The vehicle was called the Mazda-Go which was a reference to Matsuda himself.

Rex Sanchez

Rex Sanchez

Author

Rex Sanchez grew up in Saudi Arabia where he saw and got into the automotive scene. He started his career for an aviation company in the said region, writing about turbines and rotors which are later distributed for educational purposes. And now, he joined Philkotse.com as a staff writer. Currently, he is the youngest on the team and is more than ready to grow in the field.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rexsanchez09

View more