RX-7 Spy Shots: 2012 Mazda RX-7 Test Mule

[HighestOfHigh]

Hidden beneath the makeshift body panels of this awkward looking Mazda6 is the nearly complete running gear of the next-generation Mazda RX-7 rotary-powered sports car.

The vehicle seen here sits much lower than the regular Mazda6 and its wheelbase is shorter. Furthermore, the protruding headlights and reshaped bumpers also confirm that this is no ordinary Mazda6. Another detail not discernable in the spy shots is the position of the fuel filler cap, which onlookers claim is in a totally different position to the one found on the regular Mazda6.

Being the successor to the previous generation FD RX-7, the new test mule should also be sporting a rear-wheel drive layout.

Due for launch in late 2011, the new car is expected to eschew outright performance and prestige in favor of affordability and reliability. Mazda is reportedly looking to evoke the character of the first RX-7 by keeping output around the 200-250 horsepower mark and prices well below $30,000. This will make the new car an ideal competitor to the likes of the Hyundai Genesis Coupe and upcoming Toyota and Subaru joint sports cars.

Styling is expected to be influenced by 2007’s race-inspired Furai concept car as well the 2008 Takai concept.

As for its powerplant, Mazda will use a new generation rotary engine dubbed the Renesis 16X, which it has already previewed in concept form. While this engine is capable of developing power levels upwards of 350 horsepower, Mazda will choose a more modest power output while focusing on lowering the weight of the engine itself and improving reliability and fuel consumption--two of the biggest problems with the current 13B unit found in the RX-8.

- Spy Shots: 2012 Mazda RX-7 Test Mule - MotorAuthority

 

[bum-man]

Looks like a bugafied 6, too bad it will not be getting the full 350 hp. Mazda has been saying a bigger jump in hp for the next generation MX-5 but that is looking bleak if the new RX is only getting a moddest jump in power. At this point they need to inject more balls into their sports cars.