Mazda rotary successor RX-9 rumoured

Rumours are swirling that Mazda has a new model in the pipeline named RX-9, which might signal the long awaited return of Mazda’s much-loved rotary engine. It will be based on the RX-Vision concept they displayed in Tokyo last year. According to Motoring.com.au, a prototype RX-9 will be featured at the next year’s Tokyo Motor Show.

The RX-Vision concept, when it was revealed last year, fuelled hopes of a successor for the RX-7 and RX-8 making its way back. Since then Mazda has taken a few steps to keep the speculations alive. They trademarked the RX-9 moniker and supposedly approved the design, engineering and production of the car. The sharp looks of the concept, as usual, will likely be diluted if it reaches production.

The engine in the concept, the all-new SKYACTIV-R will make it into the engine bay of the production model. The 1.6-litre twin-rotor engine will feature compression ignition and turbocharging to churn out 400 hp.

According to the rumours, the launch is slated to happen in 2020 which will coincide with Mazda’s centenary celebrations.