When you get right down to it, Mazda’s lineup is just begging for a new RX. Never mind the demands from the fan boys – here we have an automaker that infuses each and every model its got with a little “zoom-zoom” magic, from its sedans to its SUVs. At the moment, the sportiest Mazda on the market is the MX-5, one of the most epic compact drop-tops that money can buy. But in an age of four-figure hypercars, the 155-horse MX-5 can’t always cut the mustard, no matter how well it handles. What Mazda needs now is something bigger, faster, and more powerful, a coupe with the soul of the Miata, but the beating heart of a high-end performance machine. Something like, I dunno, a new RX? Welp, rumor has it that’s exactly what we might get in October at the Tokyo Motor Show, with an on-sale date sometime in 2019.

That’s the news from our friends over at Motor 1, who cite “several Web sites in Asia” claiming Mazda might introduce a new generation of its rotary sports car this year. Of course, Motor 1 is quick to point out that the rumors are flimsy at best, and to take them with an appropriately sized grain of salt. But hey, hope springs eternal, especially amongst RX fans, so read on for some of the juicy details.

Motor 1

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Note: RX-Vision Concept pictured here.

Well, for starters, it would look gorgeous, pulling cues from the breathtaking RX-Vision Concept that dropped in 2015 at the Tokyo Motor Show. That machine is all sensual and flowing lines, with a cab back profile and short overhangs over a low and wide stance. Yum.

According to Motor 1, further specs on the rumored production vehicle include a brand-new rotary engine, which is mounted at a 180-degree angle when compared to the older layout design. The new engine is thus an improvement in terms of packaging and more easily accommodates the turbo (yep, more forced induction) by placing the exhaust ports at the top of the engine. Output could reach as high as 400 horses, which is a healthy number considering curb weight should slot in under the 3,000-pound mark. Pricing is said to be between 8 million and 10 million yen, which converts to around $70,000 to $90,000 here in the states.

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Note: RX-Vision Concept pictured here.

That’s the big question. We’ve been hearing rumors like these for years now, almost non-stop since Mazda killed the RX-8 back in 2012. But that was five yeas ago, and the RX-Vision would be a cruel joke if the Japanese automaker decided to leave it on the shelf as only a concept.

What do you think? Is this latest round of rumors just more hot air, or should we rev up the hype train for a new RX? Let us know in the comments below.

Sounds Awesome, But Is It Really Gonna Happen?

Note: RX-Vision Concept pictured here.

Read our full speculative review on the 2018 Mazda RX-7.