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Mazda RX-7 could return in 2020

We like writing about the next Mazda RX-7 because it's like writing about the Chupacabra, Slenderman, or the Florida Skunkape, all of which are imaginary creatures seen by someone who knew someone who had an uncle whose dead great-grandfather's sister took a picture of it, invariably at night, while she was drunk, with her 1933 Kodak Brownie. Autocar is the latest with an RX-7 revival, saying it could come as soon as 2020 to celebrate Mazda's 100th anniversary. Before we get to that, let's take a brief look at RX-7 rumors. In 2009 there was speculation we'd get a concept RX-7 at the Tokyo Motor Show. That same year it was predicted the RX-8 would die to make room for a new RX-7 in 2012. In 2010 Mazda was developing a 300-horsepower rotary for the RX-7 that could run on gasoline or diesel and had better fuel economy and less oil consumption. Then Autocar said we could get the new RX-7 by 2013, a rumor that turned into a new RX-9 based on the Mazda MX-5 Miata platform. In 2012 the potential arrival date had become 2017. In 2013 the company CEO Masamichi Kogai said the equivalent of "Not gonna happen," and he said it again last year, just 90 days ago. It should be clear by now that this car is Mazda's version of the Lotus Esprit. Whew. Now that we're clear on all that, what does Autocar say? That a follow-up to the extinct RX-8 is coming that will sit on the new MX-5 Miata platform, and Mazda's vice president of European R&D said there are still 30 engineers working on rotary engines in partnership with universities. The successor will be front-engined and rear-wheel drive, have either two seats or 2+2 seating, and could be called RX-6, RX-7, or RX-9. That sounds like three distinct statements, only one of which is definitely true, that could possibly just maybe add up to a new RX-7, but could even more likely add up to a rotary-engined concept car that never sees production. We've only got five more years to wait, and since we've been begging at the RX-7 doors this long... Related Video: News Source: Autocar Rumormill Mazda Coupe Performance rotary rotary engine mazda rx-7

Mazda CX-3 details come to light

Mazda may be working on a new CUV, according to Auto Express. Reportedly called the CX-3, the small crossover will be engineered to take on the likes of the Ford EcoSport and Nissan Juke, but with a focus on fuel efficiency and engaging driving characteristics.
The report names no sources, but says the CX-3 will benefit from a new small-displacement diesel engine. The 1.6-liter oil burner will be joined by a 1.3-liter gasoline engine when the vehicle debuts in 2014. Auto Express reports the model may bow as a front-wheel drive offering only, with no all-wheel-drive option.
And what will it look like? Word has it Mazda will continue to leverage the face we've seen on the current CX-5 (pictured). That means the company's shield grille will make the jump, but with more plastic lower body cladding. Inside, Auto Express says the CX-3 will offer buyers fold-flat rear seating for extra cargo capacity.

Mazda doubles down with a pair of Threes

Looking to appeal to the compact tuner crowd, Mazda brought two different flavors of its 2014 Mazda3 to the SEMA Show in Las Vegas this week. The Club Sport 3 Concept hatchback (above) has more of a racing vibe to it, while the Vector 3 Concept sedan (right) looks to inject a little extra fashion into the all-new Mazda3.
Hotting up the 3, Mazda stuck with the stock 2.5-liter engine on the Club Sport 3 Concept but added a limited-slip differential and six-speed manual gearbox, the latter of which was lifted from the CX-5 crossover. Other upgrades include coil-over shocks, a performance exhaust, Brembo brakes and an aero body kit - the latter of which will be offered to buyers at a later date.
While the Vector 3 Concept does get some performance bits like two-piece Brembo brake rotors and grippier tires, the focus on this sedan is all about styling. Starting with a custom paint job and ghost stripes, the whole look is tied together with 19-inch, V-spoke Rays wheels.