New Mazda RX-7 May Get Turbo Rotary: Report
Mazda isn’t only working on a next-generation rotary engine, but a turbocharged one at that.
According to a recent report from Motoring, the new RX-7 will make its debut in 2017 and the Japanese automaker is currently focusing its development on a twin-scroll turbocharged rotary engine with a rumored output of around 450 hp. The 2017 launch will also coincide with the rotary’s 50th anniversary.
SEE ALSO: New Mazda RX-7 Scheduled for 2016 Launch
An earlier prototype of the next-generation RX-7 was believed to be powered by a naturally-aspirated rotary based on a 16X configuration and with “laser ignition.” The test mule was said to produce around 300 hp. Since then, Mazda has decided that the next-gen sports car needs more power, adding on a turbo and going back to testing.
The first prototype was based on a reinforced variant of the next-generation MX-5 platform, but with more power on the horizon the company has opted to significantly rebuild a former RX-8 platform to test with.
As for the upcoming model’s name, it is believed that Mazda is still on the fence whether to call it an RX-7 or RX-9. Both have been registered with Japan’s trademark office.
GALLERY: 2011 Mazda RX-8
[Source: Motoring]
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Jason Siu began his career in automotive journalism in 2003 with Modified Magazine, a property previously held by VerticalScope. As the West Coast Editor, he played a pivotal role while also extending his expertise to Modified Luxury & Exotics and Modified Mustangs. Beyond his editorial work, Jason authored two notable Cartech books. His tenure at AutoGuide.com saw him immersed in the daily news cycle, yet his passion for hands-on evaluation led him to focus on testing and product reviews, offering well-rounded recommendations to AutoGuide readers. Currently, as the Content Director for VerticalScope, Jason spearheads the content strategy for an array of online publications, a role that has him at the helm of ensuring quality and consistency across the board.
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Awesome
Omg yes! Come on Mazda I don't care if its $40,000. Do it!!! They should call it the RX-9 to showcase the evolution of the rotary. Also calling it the RX-7 kinda undermines the RX-8.