Mazda chose this week’s Tokyo Motor Show to debut the Vision Coupe Concept, a gorgeous sedan that hopefully previews the next Mazda6 or perhaps a revived Millenia. But this isn’t the first time we’ve seen this design language. In fact, it might as well be the four-door version of the actual coupe Mazda showed off back in 2015: the RX Vision Concept. We doubt either concept will make it to production without undergoing some major changes, but it does set up a fascinating comparison.
On the outside, both cars have a remarkable amount in common. Yes, the RX Vision is two years old and has two fewer doors than the Vision Coupe, but if you saw both on the street, there would be no doubt they’re related. They have very similar sloping rooflines, and the sheet metal almost has a liquid appearance. In fact, most of what looks like design lines are actually light reflecting off the curved surfaces and flared fenders.
The biggest difference between the two is seen up front. Both cars have narrow, slit-like headlights, but the RX Vision gets what appears to be daytime running lights that make the headlights appear larger. Out back, the differences are also minor. While the RX Vision has quad taillights and a dual exhaust, the Vision Coupe gets twin taillights and a quad exhaust.
Inside, the similarities continue, although it’s clear that the sedan is more luxury-oriented, while the coupe is more sport-focused. Mazda covered the Vision Coupe’s cabin in leather and wood with only a few metallic touches. The RX Vision’s cabin, meanwhile, still has plenty of leather, including seats and door panels covered in bright red hide, but it lacks the wood. And, of course, the Vision Coupe also has a back seat.
We’re huge fans of the RX-7 and RX-8, so we were obviously incredibly excited to see the RX Vision. Even if Mazda put it into production without a rotary engine, the looks alone would make it an instant classic. Then again, the Vision Coupe is one of the best looking sedan designs we’ve seen in a very long time. We can’t help hoping we’ll see a production version on the road before too long.
But what do you think? Which concept gets you more excited? Head to our Facebook page to let us know.