Oct 1, 2013, 1:55pm ET

Mazda engineers lobbying for RWD revival

More rear-wheel-drive Mazdas could be on the way.

Mazda engineers are presenting the case for a return to rear-wheel-drive to the automaker's management.

An independent and relatively small brand in an increasingly competitive and consolidated marketplace, Mazda is continually faced with the challenge of distinguishing itself from larger, better-known rivals.

Engineers believe that a new rear-wheel-drive strategy would help achieve that goal while also creating engaging products that further the zoom-zoom brand's focus on driving enjoyment, according to an Edmunds report.

Mazda's top management is reportedly none too keen on the plan due to the prohibitive cost of developing all-new platforms, but the automaker could seek a partner to help share expenses. Fiat-owned Alfa Romeo, itself seeking to forge a new rear-wheel-drive identity, could prove a natural fit, especially given the two companies' current co-operation on the next-generation MX-5 Miata and a new Alfa roadster.

If a partnership fails to materialize, it wouldn't be surprising to see Mazda decide to simply focus on its existing front-wheel-drive lineup, which has been picking up sales momentum with the latest batch of redesigned models.

With the recent demise of the RX-8, the MX-5 Miata is Mazda's only remaining rear-wheel-drive offering.