Mazda has always been synonymous with racing, from the legendary rotary-powered RX-7 to the iconic MX-5 Miata, showcasing a rich history of producing fun and competitive cars. However, in recent years, Mazda has lacked a performance sub-brand to rival the likes of BMW M, Mercedes-AMG, and Subaru STI.
The Birth of Mazda Spirit Racing
That’s about to change with the launch of Mazda Spirit Racing (MSR), the successor to the beloved Mazdaspeed division. MSR will not just be a badge and a body kit but a dedicated division developing track-ready cars that showcase Mazda’s engineering prowess and racing DNA, unlike Mazdaspeed, which focused on turbocharging and tuning existing models.
Inspired by the Spirit of Mazda
MSR will be inspired by the Spirit of Mazda, the company’s philosophy of pursuing the joy of driving and challenging the status quo. Drawing from Mazda’s motorsport achievements, such as the 1991 24 Hours of Le Mans victory with the 787B, MSR aims to create cars that are fast, agile, reliable, and efficient, using Mazda’s innovative Skyactiv technology and Kodo design language.
Unveiling at the Tokyo Auto Salon
Mazda has already given us a glimpse of MSR’s potential by unveiling two concept cars at the 2024 Tokyo Auto Salon: the MSR3 and the MSR MX-5.
The MSR3, based on the Mazda3 hatchback, features a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, mated to a six-speed manual transmission and an all-wheel-drive system. It also boasts a sport-tuned suspension, Brembo brakes, 19-inch forged wheels, Recaro seats, a roll cage, and a carbon fiber body kit, all painted in a striking red and black livery that pays homage to the 787B.
The MSR MX-5 is based on the Mazda MX-5 Miata, the best-selling roadster of all time. The MSR MX-5 takes the Miata’s formula of lightweight and nimble handling to the next level by adding a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine that delivers 230 horsepower and 200 lb-ft of torque, paired with a six-speed manual transmission and a rear-wheel-drive system. The MSR MX-5 also features a sport-tuned suspension, Brembo brakes, 18-inch forged wheels, Recaro seats, a roll cage, and a carbon fiber body kit that enhances the Miata’s sleek and elegant silhouette. The MSR MX-5 is painted in a stunning white and blue livery that evokes the spirit of Mazda’s racing heritage.
The Future of MSR
Mazda has not confirmed when the MSR3 and the MSR MX-5 will go into production, but hints suggest they are prototypes leading to future MSR models. MSR will not be limited to hatchbacks and roadsters but will expand to sedans, crossovers, and even electric vehicles, with Mazda expressing interest in returning to top-tier motorsport like Formula One, World Endurance Championship, and IMSA.
A New Era for Mazda
Mazda Spirit Racing is a bold and exciting move that will surely delight Mazda fans and enthusiasts worldwide. MSR will bring back the thrill and passion of Mazda’s performance cars, elevating the brand’s reputation and prestige in the automotive industry, proving that Mazda is not just a mainstream carmaker but a true innovator and leader in the art of driving.
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