Is Mazda Looking at Another Rotary Powered Sports Car?

2015 Mazda MX-5 25th Anniversary Edition (Credit: © Mazda)

Mazda faithful regularly share fervent rumors that the Japanese automaker is going to be resurrecting the RX sports car line, which of course will be powered by an updated rotary engine. The odd engine technology can be mesmerizing to learn about and watch in action, plus it can provide incredible amounts of performance without the weight penalty that comes with traditional engine designs. Because of these points, and the fact that the third generation RX-7 is still an automotive legend, it’s understandable why some people pine for another sports god from Mazda.

The latest rotary rumor carries more weight than others because it doesn’t come by way of a Mazda enthusiast forum, but instead was scooped by Auto Express. The British automotive website claims that a Wankel-powered Mazda car will be coming for the 2017 model year, a fact that the automaker has not confirmed, but also hasn’t denied (at least not yet). It’s the perfect scenario for everyone to put on their tin foil hats and begin postulating about the Illuminati plotting to do away with rotary engines, which obviously are the superior form of propelling any vehicle down a paved road.

Adding to the juiciness of the rumor, Auto Express also threw in that the new rotary power plant will use SkyActiv engineering principles, which everyone knows has helped out with the powertrains on the Mazda3, Mazda6 and CX-5. The report also states that the new RX will be based on the next-generation Miata’s platform and will produce at least 300 horsepower.

It’s a nice rumor, but it likely won’t materialize into anything solid. Unfortunately, rotary engines are notorious for lackluster emissions and fuel economy, which is reason enough for Mazda to steer clear of the technology as governments continue to raise their regulatory standards. Barring an official announcement from Mazda, which should be coming soon if the car will be coming to market in two years, you shouldn’t get too excited just yet.