THE MAZDA RX-VISION GT3: LIFE IMITATES ART

Could this be a case of “Life Imitates Art?” With the new Mazda RX-Vision GT3 Concept car, we certainly hope so. The Mazda RX-Vision GT3 is a virtual race car based on the Mazda RX-Vision real-life concept car that was introduced at the 2015 Tokyo Motor Show in Japan. We at Napleton.news think it’s one of the prettiest versions of the Mazda Kodo – Soul of Motion design theme, yet. And did we mention it’s powered by a next-generation Skyactiv R rotary engine (RE)?

THE MAZDA RX-VISION GT3: A CONCEPT AND MORE

The Mazda RX-Vision concept is a living, breathing example of Mazda’s design direction for the future. Because auto racing has always been at the soul of the Mazda brand, it’s only natural they would explore this direction. The Mazda RX-Vision is a virtual example of what could happen if this concept actually hits the street and the track.

This Mazda RX-Vision GT3 is the result of Mazda artists, and game designers from Polyphony Digital’s famous Gran Turismo video game working together to design a sports car that Mazda hopes to build in the near future. The thing that is astonishing to us here at Napleton.news is the RX-Vision GT3 complies with the Federation Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) guidelines for real-life FIA-certified GT3 race cars.

The FIA standards apply to commercially available 2-seater or 2+2-seater sports cars modified for racing. As it turns out, Gran Turismo also adheres to the FIA rulebooks, so it seems natural that Mazda has production-intent with this vehicle. Think about it: Why would they go through all the design exercises and rule compliance issues if they weren’t really thinking about building this boat?

A VARIATION ON A THEME

The new RX-Vision GT3 builds on the theme presented with the introduction of the standard RX-Vision. Utilizing the original’s beautiful long nose and short rear deck, the GT3 now features a wider, more aggressive stance that provides cover for the ultra-wide Michelin 18-inch racing tires mounted on center-lock alloy rims.

The overall length of the RX-Vision race car measures in at 181 inches long. It stands 82 inches wide and 44 inches tall. The RX-Vision rides on a 106.2-inch wheelbase. Power for the RX GT3 comes from a 2.6-liter naturally aspirated Skyactiv-R 4-rotor engine producing 562 horsepower and 398.2 lb-ft of torque. The front-engine and rear-wheel-drive transaxle configuration result in a perfect 48:52 weight bias, which offers optimal chassis dynamics that are perfect for road racing.

THE MAZDA RX-VISION GT3 DESIGN STORY

The story behind the RX-Vision GT3 begins in 2016, where the original RX-Vision was selected as the “Most Beautiful Concept Car of the Year” in France. Mazda designers and Polyphony Digital’s digital modelers combined talents to create the GT3 race car.

In 2019, a sketch was released at the World Finals of the FIA Gran Turismo Championships held in Monaco, where it was announced the vehicle would be added to the 2020 update of Gran Turismo Sport for Sony Playstation. After modeling was complete, the FIA stated the concept complied with existing GT3 rules and performance requirements for race cars. These rules require the original cabin and door shape are maintained according to regulations. The front and rear tires and fender widths have been increased.

The final version included a hood vent, for aerodynamics and engine cooling, and a lower front spoiler, rear tail spoiler and lower diffuser for increased downforce. The overall ride height was lowered to increase the grip and slipperiness of the GT3 race car.

LOOKING INSIDE

Purpose-driven would be a way to describe the interior of the RX GT3 concept. Designed with superior ergonomics in mind, the car features a new seat shape, an improved driving position, pedal placement and improved visibility as essentials. It is all designed to reflect on Mazda’s dedication to being human-centered.

A LOOK TO THE FUTURE

The RX-Vision GT3 race car concept is a look ahead at “what if?” What if the designers received a green light to proceed? How about if the RX-Vision GT3 ends up on a real race track? What if I want to buy one in real life? We can’t answer any of those questions at this moment, but figure that if Mazda builds it, they will come. Wait! Wasn’t that a baseball phrase? There’s no crying in baseball! Yeesh!

In the meantime, visit the Napleton Auto Group dealership nearest you to get a taste of Zoom-Zoom yourself.