Mazda unveiled their latest Iconic SP concept car at the 2023 Japan Mobility Show today, and it’s everything you’ve come to expect from the marque, and more.
Sporting a low-slung silhouette and sleek pop-up LED headlights, the prototype bears more than a passing resemblance to the FD-generation RX-7, albeit modernised for the 21st century.
According to the carmaker, the Iconic SP features a hybrid powertrain in the form of a two-rotor rotary EV engine. While the internal combustion motor does not directly power the wheels, it will act as a generator that charges a battery pack and sends juice to electric motors, much like in the MX-30 R-EV subcompact crossover.
It’s also capable of burning various types of fuel such as hydrogen, making the Iconic SP a truly carbon-neutral sports car. Mazda has kept mum about headline figures, only revealing that the concept car has 365hp under the bonnet.
Mazda President and CEO Masahiro Moro, who presented the Iconic SP to members of the international press, had this to say, “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.’ With such a strong will, Mazda is committed to enriching life-in-motion for those we serve.”
To drive home the Iconic SP’s enthusiast-friendly driving dynamics, Mazda engineers have given the 1,450 kg vehicle a perfect 50:50 weight distribution, positioning the lightweight rotary engine at the centre of the car to achieve a low centre of gravity.
Although it’s a sports car at its core, the Mazda concept also adds value as a lifestyle companion. The automaker states that it’s able to supply power for outdoor leisure activities, or in times of disaster.
There’s still no word on whether the Iconic SP Concept will be destined for production, but judging from the ground sentiments on the event floor today, the excitement from enthusiasts and industry observers is palpable.
Photo Credits: Muhammad Mu’tasim (@mutasimdrives) & Mazda Motor Corporation
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