Could the Mazda Iconic SP Concept be the New Miata?

According to reports, Mazda has unveiled a new mid-engine sports car concept known as the Mazda Iconic SP. While some speculate that this could be the brand’s latest rotary-powered sports car, others believe it could be the next generation of the iconic Mazda Miata. The new concept could be a sneak peek of the upcoming Mazda Miata.

Mazda has described the Iconic SP as a new type of compact sports car concept that is designed to meet the needs of customers who love cars and desire a vehicle that embodies the joy of driving. While this description sounds a lot like the Mazda Miata, the automaker hasn’t confirmed whether this new concept is indeed the latest iteration of the iconic roadster. However, some experts believe that the sleek design and mid-engine layout of the Iconic SP could be a hint at what to expect from the next generation of the Mazda Miata.

The Mazda Iconic SP is powered by a two-rotor rotary EV system that is capable of running on a variety of fuels, including hydrogen. The automaker has not provided many details on how the system works, but some experts speculate that it could be similar to current plug-in hybrid setups where the engine and electric motor work together to power the rear wheels. The compact engine is mounted low in the car, giving the concept a 50:50 weight distribution that is ideal for a sports car. The Iconic SP is said to boast 365 horsepower, making it a very promising addition to Mazda’s lineup of performance vehicles.

While there isn’t much information available about the Mazda Iconic SP concept, some experts have speculated that it could be the next generation of the Mazda Miata. It seems unlikely for Mazda to invest in an all-new, expensive mid-engine platform when the Miata, the most successful roadster in history, is due for a major overhaul in the next few years. It’s possible that Mazda is releasing this design study to gauge public reaction and potentially base a real car off what was teased. This approach makes more sense than developing a completely new platform. The Miata has been a constant in Mazda’s lineup for over three decades, and it’s likely that the automaker will continue to focus on this iconic vehicle.

The next generation of Mazda’s iconic roadster is said to be electrified, and if rumors are true, it could look like the recently unveiled Mazda Iconic SP concept. With a futuristic and handsome design that incorporates Mazda’s successful Kodo design language, the concept has all the right cues, including a long hood and short deck, despite being mid-engined. While it’s still just a hunch, if the next Miata does look like this, we’re all for it.

Photo Source: Mazda Newsroom