New Rendering Shows What the Rumored RX-9 Could Look Like

2018 Mazda RX-9 Rendering (Credit: © Hodge Ltd)

The Mazda RX series has laid dormant in the U.S. since the automaker axed the slow-selling RX-8 in 2011. But with recent advancements in hybridization and fuel efficiency, there have been rumors that a new RX model is in the works. Using the RX series’ progression in naming, one can only assume that a new RX model would bear the name “RX-9,” and thanks to graphic designer Alex Hodge, we now have a rendering to go with that name.

With the resurrection of yesteryear’s Japanese sports cars, like the Acura NSX and the rumored Supra, it seems only appropriate that this rendering takes most of its styling cues from the RX-7 instead of the RX-8.This two-seat rendering shows off almost Pagani Huayra-like proportions with its cockpit pushed forward, large front wheel arches and seemingly stretched rear quarters. At a quick glance, however, you can see a lot of the last-gen RX-7. Unlike the last-gen RX-7, however, this rendering shows off dramatic body lines that seem as if they were designed by the wind. The swooping shoulder-line and the creases leading into the rear air intakes highlight this shaped-by-the-wind look.

Up front the Kodo design signatures are present but modified to fit this incredible design. The signature grille is placed lower on the front end, and the inward plunge from the large wheel arches is rather dramatic.

2018 Mazda RX-9 Rendering (Credit: © Hodge Ltd)

Around back, a sleek set of taillights with a bar connecting them highlight the upper portion of the fascia. At the bottom of the rear fascia lies a single, trapezoid-shaped exhaust outlet that enhances the aggressive look of this RX-9 rendering.

Through the uniquely shaped rear glass is also where you can see the 16X rotary engine mounted just ahead of the rear wheels. This mid-engine setup creates the perfect balance the RX-9 would need to compete in today’s market.

For those of you not familiar with the 16X rotary engine, Mazda created the 16X Next-Generation Renesis engine in 2007 as a potential replacement for the Renesis 1.3-liter rotary in the RX-8. The plan behind this 1.6-liter engine was to take all the good parts of the original Renesis engine — power, low weight and high-revving nature — and make them better, while fixing the issues the original Renesis had. The key issues were to increase its economy car-like 152 pound-feet of torque and its fuel-hungry nature.

2018 Mazda RX-9 Speculative Rendering (Credit: © Hodge Ltd)

Unfortunately, the RX-8 got the axe before Mazda had a chance to add the 16X to its engine bay, but Alex thinks that it could be part of the new RX-9. With the addition of hybrid technology to the core design of the 16X engine, Mazda could cure all the ills of the rotary engine. The added low-end torque of an electric motor can combine with the improved torque band of the 16X engine to make it an easier-to-drive vehicle that does not need to hit 8,000 rpm to feel fast. Additionally, like all hybrid systems, the electric motor can help dramatically increase the fuel economy of the rotary engine, which has long been a sore spot.

While I love the design that Alex came up with, I still have to question whether Mazda will bring back the RX nameplate or not. Recently a Mazda executive said that he wants the RX name to return, but the low sales volume and efficiency issues of the rotary engine are just a few roadblocks preventing the model’s return. Only time will tell if it makes its comeback.