Mazda RX-Evolv

What is it?
Mazda RX-Evolv

What's special about it?
Rotary power is back, thanks to the four-door RX-Evolv concept car. Because the car doesn't have central pillars, the rear doors open "suicide" style. The rear seats are functional: the RX-Evolv even has an integrated child seat in the passenger-side rear seat. Power comes from an updated rotary engine. It's normally aspirated this time around, but it still produces more horsepower than the old RX-7 turbo engine--Mazda says it makes 280 horsepower. The transmission is an auto-shift manual, similar in concept to the one found on the Ferrari 360 Modena F1. It also features 50/50 weight distribution, 19-inch wheels, and an Active Cornering Brake system. This system is similar to an active handling system, but it is used to aid the driver by taking the car beyond its normal cornering limits.

Why should you care?
Did you cry when you heard the news that Mazda killed the twin-turbo RX-7s back in 1995? If so, you'll definitely care about the RX-Evolv. During the TMS press conference, Mazda officials were adamant that the RX-Evolv is functional and not far removed from being a possible production car.