Rotary engine could mark its return in new Mazda sports car

Since the Mazda RX-8 was discontinued in 2012, fans have been awaiting the return of the rotary engine.

And that day may soon be here after the Japanese automaker unveiled its RX-Vision Concept, a car that could signal the return of a Mazda sports car—and the rotary engine—in the near future.

The RX-Vision, unveiled at the Tokyo Motor Show, "represents a vision of the future that Mazda hopes to one day make into reality," according to a release from the automaker.

The front-engine, rear-wheel drive concept features a KODO design, Mazda's signature design language, and what it calls a SKYACTIV-R rotary engine.

"Although not currently mass-producing any rotary models, Mazda never ceased its R&D activities," the automaker said.

No information about potential engine specs was released, though Mazda president and chief executive Masamichi Kogai said he will discuss it in more detail in the future.