Mazda RX-9 Now Rumored for 2020
The rumor mill surrounding Mazda’s RX models continue to churn.
A new report claims that the Japanese automaker is planning to reveal an all-new RX-7 in 2017 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of its first rotary model debut while the RX-9 will come in 2020 to celebrate the brand’s 100th anniversary. According to a senior Mazda executive, the company plans to “surprise everyone in 2017 with something special to celebrate the birth of rotary,” though that doesn’t exactly mean it’ll be an RX-7. The person elaborated that Mazda will then celebrate its 100th birthday by taking it to another level in 2020.
SEE ALSO: No New Mazda RX Model Without a Rotary Engine
While it’s not completely out of the question that Mazda has a new RX model in the works along with a new rotary engine, the report also states that the RX-9 will use a two-stage turbo system that incorporates an “electric turbo assist” that engages at low rpm while the standard turbo will chime in at higher revs. The plan for the two-stage turbo setup is to help combat all the negatives associated with a rotary engine, namely poor fuel economy, emissions, excessive oil use and weak mid-range torque.
We advise taking these rumors with a grain of salt, as speculation surrounding the future of the RX nameplate and Mazda’s rotary engines has been rumored for years. The company hasn’t made its own announcement regarding the models’ developments, but we can continue hoping.
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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At this point I simply won't believe any rumors not 100% verified by Mazda. In fact, given the fiasco surrounding the 6 diesel in the US, I'm not sure I'd believe it even if word does come directly from Mazda execs.