A number of Mazda’s vehicles -- in particular the coupes -- can rightly be called objects of beauty. It is quite hard to deny that, especially if you have seen their latest creation dubbed the Mazda RX-Vision GT3 Concept. Penned as a race car bound for a video game, the RX-Vision GT3 takes a big hint from a familiar origin unveiled four years ago.
Just by looking at the Mazda RX-Vision GT3, it doesn’t take much to tell that it was derived from the RX-Vision Concept unveiled at the 2015 Tokyo Motor Show. That show car was gorgeous; it was simply stunning and attractive from all angles. Essentially, the RX-Vision GT3 Concept is the racing version of the 2015 study.
A front-engine, rear-wheel drive sports concept, the Mazda RX-Vision represented a “vision” of the future that only the carmaker could provide and that fans wanted to become a reality. This refers to the engine type that Mazda has been known for – the rotary mill.
When it was unveiled at the 2015 Tokyo Motor Show, the Mazda RX-Vision was powered by the next generation rotary engine. The concept thus provided a strong hint of the return of the much beloved engine. Yes, the rotary engine is indeed returning, but only as a range-extending mill.
The compact nature of the rotary engine allowed the Mazda RX-Vision to feature a low yet long nose, a design element matched by smooth-flowing proportions. These elements have made their way into the RX-Vision GT3, but are interpreted in a more hardcore level.
For instance, the roof of the Mazda RX-Vision GT3 is much lower than that of the RX-Vision. The RX-Vision GT3 also features a number of hardcore aerodynamic elements such as a massive front splitter, a huge rear wing, hefty side skirts as well as a diffuser with vertical planes. As for its powertrain, Mazda didn’t say if it uses a rotary engine; although it is safe to assume so.
Interestingly, Mazda didn’t really divulge much about the RX-Vision GT3. What we know is that it will be a virtual race car debuting at the Gran Turismo Sport video game. A sketch of the concept was briefly featured in the World Final of the FIA World Tour of the Gran Turismo Sport.
Featuring a 48:52 weight distribution and a front mid-mounted engine, the RX-Vision GT3 is penned by Ikuo Maeda, who serves as Mazda’s chief of global design. Son of Mazda RX-7 designer Matasaburo Maeda, Ikuo also penned the RX-Vision and the RX-8.
Starting next year, you can drive the RX-Vision GT3 by playing Gran Turismo Sport in its updated form. Of course, you need a PlayStation 4 to do that.
(Via Gran Turismo TV and Motor1)