► Mazda unveils Vision X-Coupe concept
► Uses rotary PHEV technology and synthetic fuel
► Includes carbon capture tech on board
At the 2025 Japan Mobility Show, Mazda is showing the Vision X-Coupé – a sporty concept car intended to serve as a preview of future design and drive technologies.
The Mazda Vision X-Coupé combines an advanced design with a new Wankel engine plug-in hybrid system and CO₂ capture in the vehicle for the first time.
The sleekly designed four-door with a sloping roofline is powered by a parallel plug-in hybrid system that combines a turbocharged two-rotor rotary piston engine, an electric motor and a battery unit. The powertrain develops a total of 502bhp and claims almost 500 miles of range. The concept uses a new synthetic fuel made from microalgae, which, according to Mazda, is around 90 per cent climate neutral.
The system is complemented by something the brand is calling its ‘Mazda Mobile Carbon Capture’ technology, which filters out some of the carbon dioxide produced from the exhaust gases while driving. The captured CO₂ is stored in cartridges that can be emptied or replaced.
The interior is driver-focused and looks rather old-school at first glance. The infotainment screen is fully integrated into the dashboard so that it does not interfere with visibility. Central driving information appears in a three-part instrument layout behind the steering wheel, which combines classic analogue optics with modern sensor technology.
Mazda relies on sustainable materials inside. For example, the seat cushions are made of “See Wool”, a fabric made from recycled oyster shells. Sandalwood is used in the door panels as a rapidly renewable raw material. Parts of the instrument panel are covered with ‘bio second skin’ – a leather-like material based on plant fibres.
As for the exterior, there are elements of the RX-8 in how the rear doors are shaped and open, and some design elements are similar to other recent concepts from the brand. It’s also long – 5.05 metres – stretching the wheelbase for max passenger space.
Contributor, part of Auto Zeitung's team in Germany
By Lukas Bädorf
