Mazda has confirmed that its Iconic SP concept, a striking blend of retro and futuristic design, is set to enter production. Originally introduced as a concept car powered by an electric motor and rotary range extender, the Iconic SP quickly captured attention with its unique design and innovative technology. Masashi Nakayama, Mazda’s design chief, emphasized that this was no ordinary show car, but rather a project developed with the intent to bring it to market in the near future.
The confirmation of the Iconic SP’s production marks a significant milestone, following hints dropped by Mazda executives at the 2023 Japan Mobility Show. During the event, Mazda President Masahiro Moro described the car as a representation of the company’s commitment to the future, further fueling speculation. Nakayama also expressed his enthusiasm for seeing the concept become a reality, which sparked excitement among Mazda fans. Now that the car’s production has been officially confirmed, the concept is closer than ever to becoming a real-world model.
While the final production version could evolve from the Iconic SP’s current design, it might also serve as a successor to Mazda’s iconic RX-7 and RX-8 sports cars. Mazda has hinted that the car’s size could be adjusted to align with the compact MX-5 roadster, offering both performance and practicality. The production version is expected to retain the concept’s sleek curves, clean lines, and distinctive pop-up headlights, offering a more refined alternative to the increasingly complex designs of modern cars.
The attention to detail in the Iconic SP’s design is evident, with Mazda’s R&D Executive Officer, Naohito Saga, emphasizing the extensive research behind every aspect of the car. From the precise positioning of doors and tires to the vehicle’s overall length and interior layout, every element has been thoughtfully crafted. This careful approach ensures that the Iconic SP is not just an eye-catching concept but a functional and realistic vehicle ready for mass production.
At the heart of the Iconic SP is a dual-rotor rotary engine paired with an electric drivetrain, generating a combined output of 365 hp. Mazda has also highlighted the rotary engine’s versatility, claiming that it can run on various carbon-neutral fuels, potentially cutting emissions by up to 90%. The company is exploring innovative technologies to capture CO2 from exhaust emissions, which could play a key role in future vehicle development. Although there are technical hurdles to overcome, Mazda is optimistic that the Iconic SP will be on the road in the coming years, continuing the company’s legacy of innovation.
