When Mazda unveiled the RX-Vision at the 2015 Tokyo Motor Show, car enthusiasts all over the world began dreaming about a next-generation RX-7 that would include many of the concept's spectacular styling cues. And, with Mazda having already confirmed that a rotary-engined RX-7 is indeed underway, a production-ready version of the RX-Vision is still a few years away. More recently though, the Japanese automaker revealed that the concept will inspire more vehicles from the company's lineup, the first of which will be the next-generation Mazda3.

That's the word from Mazda's newly-appointed North American design director, Julien Montousse. Speaking to CarBuzz, which asked him whether the RX-Vision will become more than just a design study, Montousse confirmed that the some of its styling cues will find their way on future products.

"The RX-Vision is a breakthrough in Mazda design. We wanted to expand and capture more sophistication and the wow factor. This is the next evolutionary step for our Kodo design language. We wanted to generate an emotional reaction from the public. This design direction will inspire the future Mazda lineup, such as the next Mazda3," he said.

This is definitely great news as the RX-Vision is quite the gorgeous concept, even if the next Mazda3 won't be as sleek and sporty. So, what are we to expect from this mash-up? Among the first things that Mazda will probably transfer from the RX-Vision onto the Mazda3 will be the larger front grille and the slim headlamps with thin LED inserts carved into the body. The compact could also get the blacked-out trim, most likely on its more expensive models, and a sportier roofline. I don't see the concept's taillights making it on the Mazda3, but the rear end should also get slimmer light units to go with the sportier design.

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Why It Matters

While it's definitely more desirable for Mazda to turn the RX-Vision concept into a production-ready, next-gen RX-7, I'm definitely eager to see some of the company's upcoming products now that I know more about its styling direction. And, if for some reason Mazda decides to can the upcoming RX-7 (say due to rotary engine-related issues), at least we get a range of cool-looking automobiles. And I say "range" because the Japanese won't stop at the Mazda3. The RX-Vision will also inspire the larger Mazda6 and maybe even the larger CX-5 to CX-9 crossovers. Needless to say, Mazda's future looks a lot more exciting following this announcement.

Mazda RX-Vision Concept

Read our full review on the Mazda RX-Vision Concept here.