Mazda is focused on preserving the fundamental characteristics of the MX-5 Miata as an uncomplicated and lightweight roadster in a world increasingly dominated by electric vehicles (EVs). To address this challenge, Mazda unveiled the Iconic SP concept at the 2023 Tokyo Auto Show, showcasing a potential direction for the future of the Miata. The concept employs a unique approach to combat the weight issue commonly associated with EVs by utilizing a smaller battery combined with a range extender in the form of a compact and lightweight rotary engine.
While the Iconic SP is a fixed-roof sports car, Mazda intends to translate its principles to the forthcoming Miata. Although sparse on specifics, Mazda revealed that the concept operates on a dedicated EV platform and weighs approximately 3,200 pounds, which is about 1,000 pounds heavier than the current Miata. This increase in weight necessitates compensatory measures, resulting in a power output of 370 hp, nearly double that of the current Miata.
Mazda didn’t delve into the finer details of the powertrain, but they highlighted the use of a compact twin-rotor rotary engine as the range extender. This engine boasts a scalable design and the flexibility to run on various fuels, including hydrogen. Mazda’s implementation of a rotary engine as a range extender is not just an abstract concept but a concrete reality. The MX-30 electric compact crossover, launched earlier this year in select markets, employs a single-rotor rotary range extender. This range-extended MX-30, known as the R-EV, features a battery half the size of the regular MX-30, measuring just 17.8 kWh. Mazda estimates that with a full tank of gas and a fully charged battery, the extended-range MX-30 can cover over 300 miles.
The Iconic SP draws inspiration from the rotary-powered RX-Vision concept showcased at the 2015 Tokyo Auto Show, resulting in an overall design and proportions reminiscent of an RX sports car rather than a Miata. However, elements like the taillights bear a resemblance to those found on the early generations of the Miata. Stepping inside, one can observe the simplistic nature of the cabin, which includes an automatic transmission.
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During the Iconic SP’s unveiling in Tokyo, Mazda CEO Masahiro Moro described the concept as Mazda’s dream solution for the Miata in the era of electrification. Moro expressed the automaker’s enthusiastic commitment to bringing the concept to the marketplace, highlighting their dedication in making the dream a reality.
With the Iconic SP concept, Mazda demonstrates its intent to preserve the essential characteristics of the MX-5 Miata as a lightweight and fun-to-drive roadster even in the electric era. By opting for a combination of a smaller battery and a rotary range extender, Mazda aims to mitigate the weight issue prevalent in most EVs. This approach showcases Mazda’s ability to think outside the box and find innovative solutions that align with the brand’s philosophy. As Mazda continues to refine and develop the concept, enthusiasts of the MX-5 Miata can look forward to a future iteration that stays true to the car’s core values while embracing the technological advances of the electric age.
