Mazda’s Vision X-Coupe packs 500hp with a rotary-powered hybrid twist

The sporty Vision X-Coupe can drive nearly 100 miles in electric-only mode, but Mazda said a unique new plug-in hybrid system delivers up to 500 horsepower and almost 500 miles of driving range.

Mazda Vision X-Coupe debuts as a bold new PHEV

Mazda unveiled the Vision X-Coupe at the Japan Mobility Show on Wednesday, showcasing the brand’s new look.

The four-door “coupe crossover,” as Mazda calls it, is an evolution of the brand’s current “Kodo Soul of Motion” design, inspired by Japanese minimalism.

It clearly draws on the 6e for influence, the European version of Mazda’s electric sedan (the EZ-6), which is sold in China. However, the Vision X-Coupe will feature a powerful new plug-in hybrid (PHEV) system. The system consists of a turbocharged rotary engine with two rotors integrated with an electric motor and a battery.

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Combined, Mazda said the setup packs up to nearly 500 hp (510 PS). Using just the battery and EV motor, the Vision X-Coupe can drive up to 99 miles (160 km).

When the battery gets low, the engine acts as a generator, providing up to 497 miles (800 km) of combined driving range. Mazda didn’t say, but these numbers are expected to be based on the WLTP testing cycle, not the EPA.

Mazda also claims that by using carbon-neutral fuel from microalgae, combined with its proprietary CO2 capture technology, “the vehicle contributes to reducing atmospheric CO2 the more it is driven.”

In terms of size, the Vision X-Coupe measures 198.8″ (5,050 mm) long, 78.5″ (1,995 mm) wide, and 58.2″ (1,480 mm) tall with a wheelbase of 121.3″ (3,080 mm). That’s notably larger than the outgoing Mazda 6.

Outside of that, Mazda didn’t offer many details, such as battery size, acceleration time, or other powertrain specs.

Mazda also revealed the Vision X-Compact concept at the Japan Mobility Show, a hot hatch that’s “designed to deepen the bond between people and cars through the fusion of a human sensory digital model and empathetic AI.”

Since Mazda didn’t reveal any powertrain details, it’s unclear whether it will be electric or hybrid. Check back for the latest updates.