Mazda just killed our dreams, an RX-8 successor isn't happening

There have been off and on again rumors for a while that Mazda is working on a successor to the RX-7/ RX-8 models with a new rotary powered engine. Well those rumors have now been officially killed thanks to Mazda’s CEO Masamichi Kogai who recently told Automotive News that Mazda has no plans for a sports car larger than the MX-5 Miata.

Mazda RX-VISION Concept

There have been off and on again rumors for a while that Mazda is working on a successor to the RX-7/ RX-8 models with a new rotary powered engine. Well those rumors have now been officially killed thanks to Mazda’s CEO Masamichi Kogai who recently told Automotive News that Mazda has no plans for a sports car larger than the MX-5 Miata.
When asked about an RX model, Kogai stated, “I think that as a sports car option, the MX-5 1.5-liter or 2.0-liter conventional engine, with its power and acceleration, might be a more exhilarating experience.”

Related: 2017 Mazda CX-5 debuts at the LA Auto Show

While the new RX is officially off the table, there is a chance that a new rotary engine could be released at some point, although it may have a slightly different function.

“If we were to restart production of the rotary engine again, we need to make sure it wouldn’t be just short-lived. We need it to meet future emissions regulations. We are still conducting our R&D activity to overcome any issues we have with emissions and fuel efficiency.”

According to Kogai, there is a chance that the rotary engine could be used as a range extender in a new electric model, which would mean that it wouldn’t directly power the car, like in the past.

Source: Automotive News