Mazda’s Futuristic RX-Vision Concept: A Glimpse Into Unfulfilled Promise

Embark on a journey to October 2015, a time when fervent anticipation surrounded the imminent release of Star Wars: The Force Awakens. Simultaneously, on the opposite side of the globe, Mazda unveiled its spaceship-inspired sports car, the RX-Vision concept, at the Tokyo Motor Show. Featuring a gracefully extended hood, a wraparound windshield, a concise rear deck, and notably, a rotary Wankel engine, it hinted at the potential resurgence of the Mazda RX-7.

The allure of the powertrain was undeniable to enthusiasts. Mazda proudly introduced a “next-generation Skyactiv-R rotary,” seamlessly intertwining references to the classic Cosmo Sport and the 1991 triumph at the 24 Hours of Le Mans—the sole overall victory by a Japanese company at that time. The automaker adeptly generated excitement. Despite accolades from critics, the RX-Vision never transitioned to production. Nevertheless, Mazda persisted in the endeavor. For the virtual realm of Gran Turismo Sport, they conceived the RX-Vision GT3 race car concept, maintaining the distinctive appearance with a tweaked nose, an enhanced front splitter, and additional hood openings. Wider fenders and a more prominent wing and diffuser adorned the rear.

Substantial interior revisions distinguished the RX-Vision GT3 from its original counterpart. A digital display positioned behind a yoke-like steering wheel, a rearview camera, and an array of buttons on the center stack marked the evolution. Mazda declared the virtual race car’s powertrain, boasting 562 horsepower and 398 pound-feet, derived from a four-rotor Skyactiv-R rotary engine. The company even produced a limited run of 30 1:18-scale models of the RX-Vision concept, priced at $535 each.

Presently, the prospect of a new rotary-powered Mazda sports coupe appears dim, but a glimmer of hope emerged with the Iconic SP concept from the previous year. This, coupled with Mazda’s announcement of developing a new Wankel engine in the current year, sparks optimism. As of 2023, the RX-Vision is on public display at the Mazda Museum in Hiroshima, Japan. Prospective visitors must schedule a tour three months in advance. However, the RX-Vision seldom emerges from the museum’s confines. While it made an appearance at the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este in 2016, its infrequent outings are unsurprising; after all, it’s a concept deserving of meticulous preservation.

Photo Source: Mazda Newsroom