Anyone else hyped for Mazda’s new rotary sports car…?

So I’ve been following Mazda’s updates on their rotary engine, and it looks like they’re working on a new sports car! Rumors about the RX-9 with a hybrid rotary setup sound super interesting. I know the rotary engine has its challenges (looking at you, apex seals :sweat_smile:), but the idea of pairing it with electric motors could be a game-changer. What do you all think? Could this be Mazda’s big comeback?

Yeah, I heard about the hybrid thing! Pretty cool, but isn’t the rotary engine super inefficient? How are they fixing that?

Cass said:
Yeah, I heard about the hybrid thing! Pretty cool, but isn’t the rotary engine super inefficient? How are they fixing that?

Good point! They’re working on advanced combustion tech and using it at optimized RPMs in hybrids. Should help with emissions and efficiency.

Cass said:
Yeah, I heard about the hybrid thing! Pretty cool, but isn’t the rotary engine super inefficient? How are they fixing that?

What’s RPMs? Sorry, not super into car stuff. :sweat_smile:

@Bailey
No worries! RPM means ‘revolutions per minute’—basically how fast the engine is spinning. Optimizing that makes it more efficient!

Man, if they bring back something like the RX-7 with modern tech, I’m in. But what’s this about range extenders?

Cameron said:
Man, if they bring back something like the RX-7 with modern tech, I’m in. But what’s this about range extenders?

It’s for hybrids/EVs. The rotary acts as a generator to charge the battery—no direct drive, just keeping things powered.

Cameron said:
Man, if they bring back something like the RX-7 with modern tech, I’m in. But what’s this about range extenders?

So it’s not really driving the wheels? That’s kinda weird but interesting. :thinking:

@Phoenix
Yeah, weird but makes sense for efficiency. Less wear and tear on the engine too, I’d guess?

Love the rotary engine sound, but I’m worried about durability. Aren’t apex seals still an issue?

Peyton said:
Love the rotary engine sound, but I’m worried about durability. Aren’t apex seals still an issue?

Mazda’s looking into better materials like ceramics and high-strength alloys for those. Hopefully, it’ll last longer this time.

Peyton said:
Love the rotary engine sound, but I’m worried about durability. Aren’t apex seals still an issue?

Ceramics? Fancy. Does that mean repairs will cost a fortune tho? :grimacing:

Grayden said:

Peyton said:
Love the rotary engine sound, but I’m worried about durability. Aren’t apex seals still an issue?

Ceramics? Fancy. Does that mean repairs will cost a fortune tho? :grimacing:

Could be pricier, yeah. But hey, with better durability, maybe fewer repairs in the long run?

RX-9 sounds awesome, but do you think it can compete with cars like the Supra or Corvette?

Cleo said:
RX-9 sounds awesome, but do you think it can compete with cars like the Supra or Corvette?

Tough market for sure. But Mazda’s got that unique rotary + hybrid angle. Could attract the enthusiasts!

Cleo said:
RX-9 sounds awesome, but do you think it can compete with cars like the Supra or Corvette?

Yeah, but Toyota’s already dominating with the Supra. Mazda’s gotta go all out to stand a chance.

Active aerodynamics and lightweight design? If they pull this off, it’ll be one sleek car. :fire:

Tobin said:
Active aerodynamics and lightweight design? If they pull this off, it’ll be one sleek car. :fire:

Totally! Mazda’s always nailed lightweight cars. Imagine a rotary hybrid with Miata-level agility. :exploding_head:

Tobin said:
Active aerodynamics and lightweight design? If they pull this off, it’ll be one sleek car. :fire:

That combo would be insane. Hope they keep the price reasonable though.