Rotary engine could mark its return in new Mazda sports car

Since the Mazda RX-8 was discontinued in 2012, fans have been awaiting the return of the rotary engine.

And that day may soon be here after the Japanese automaker unveiled its RX-Vision Concept, a car that could signal the return of a Mazda sports car—and the rotary engine—in the near future.

The RX-Vision, unveiled at the Tokyo Motor Show, "represents a vision of the future that Mazda hopes to one day make into reality," according to a release from the automaker.

The front-engine, rear-wheel drive concept features a KODO design, Mazda's signature design language, and what it calls a SKYACTIV-R rotary engine.

"Although not currently mass-producing any rotary models, Mazda never ceased its R&D activities," the automaker said.

No information about potential engine specs was released, though Mazda president and chief executive Masamichi Kogai said he will discuss it in more detail in the future.

Share on Facebook