efini-17

What do you guys think? I dont think they would ever cut the rotary engine. Mazda is to proud to quit research, especially after the redesign of the 16x 1.6 liter. This post made me really sad...

"UPDATE 06/01/2011: We know everyone got very excited about a possible future RX-9, but Mazda has denied all rumors associated with the production of this vehicle. According to the company, there are no plans for such a vehicle, and moreover, the very future of the rotary engine at Mazda is in jeopardy. The RX-8 is also preparing for a very sad end after a very unsuccessful history, but some good news is on the horizon as there is a good possibility that we will see a successor for the RX-7. This vehicle will share its platform with the future generation MX-5 and it is expected to be revealed in about two years. "

http://www.topspeed.com/cars/mazda/2...e-ar99495.html

xexok

Why wouldn't they deny it? No point in saying "oh yes, that is the car we are coming out with". Even in your quote there it says there wont be a rx-9 and then goes on to say there will be a rx-7 successor. I think they just want to distance themselves from the rx8 because of how poorly it has done compared to the rx7. I doubt Mazda would just up and decide to trash the rotary engine when they have done so much work to refine it.

Supernaut6

The Rx8 is unsuccessful?

Aseras

the RX program was never about profit, it was about subsidizing the research into the motors

alnielsen

iTrader: (4)

In the early to mid 70's, the only cars you could buy from Mazda were RX's. I'm sure a small company like Mazda can't afford to have a car that looses money.

ShellDude

iTrader: (12)

definitely not in this economy... add to that the big push for green and the rotary is on very shaky ground.

Jedi54

iTrader: (7)

the rotary will soon cease to be in production, no doubt in my mind.
the only real question is will we see it's return.

Huey52

iTrader: (2)

The fat lady has already sung... the Mazda 2012 models are right around the corner, and as we know sans the RX-8.

But give us a rotary powered Miata in concert with the new model in 2013/14 timeframe?.

miztic

I'm anxiously awaiting an RX-7 successor, if it's 16X powered, it's going to be interesting

Too bad my finances need help, or I'd be trying to pick up a "leftover 2011" RX-8.

also- I didn't think the rx-8 program was a failure? I see tons of them around here, they're as common as any sports car, except maybe corvettes. Altho I think my local dealer has had an R3 sitting on their showroom floor for quite a while, if I had $33k laying around, they would have a sale

xexok

Compared to the rx7, I would say yes. I'm not saying a complete failure, obviously the car sold. I just think it was a disappointment to many people.

PatHammer9

The RX-8 was advertised to be more then what it really was when it hit the market. After the excitement of what they hoped it would be got hit by reality the RX-8 failed in the eyes of many. The RX-7 has been through 3 generations and several years for each generation. Weighing that I can see how the the RX-8 would be pushed back for a new RX-7. Even in our own life we find our self going with what has always worked for us in the past, so will Mazda. Mazda killing the rotary, it might be in jeopardy but I don't see that happening any time soon. I hope not, a world of pistons and hybrids....sucks.

monchie

Too many problems for sure, that's why.

Huey52

iTrader: (2)

In the 21st century it's unacceptable to have a rotary engine that loses compression due to apex seal materials technology. That's always been the rotary's Achilles heal. If it takes ceramic seals to cure then Mazda should bite the bullet and move ahead.

The 16X still has great promise, with even more power and lighter weight in the same form/fit. Here's hoping they do solve the fundamental reliability issues.