Speculation: New Mazda Rx-9

This is my version of the new RX-9. In my opinion, the RX-8 and Kabura forms are based off older design studies that would not be used as the new starting point for the RX-9. Mazda has since then moved on to the “flow” design theme.
With this in mind, I set out to create an overall theme based off of Mazda’s latest Taiki and Furai concepts. The Taiki uses a front mid-ship design, which is what all RX-7’s have used in the past and is why I chose this as my first starting point rather than the mid-engined Furai.
Starting with the Taiki, I changed the controversial rear quarter panel and boot to follow the rear quarter panel lines of the FD3S RX-7. This created a large vent under the driver and passenger doors that could function as cooling vents for the engine and transmission oil coolers. Then I used design elements from the Furai to inject the racing heritage all RX-7’s are known for. In the end, this created a vision of what the new RX-9 could look like in 2012.
This design I think will draw in critics who either love it or hate it, which is right where the new RX-9 should be.