Mazda’s universally adored MX-5 roadster, now in its fourth generation, celebrates its 10th anniversary in the Philippines. Affectionately called the “ND Miata” by fans and enthusiasts, no other sports car comes close to its relative affordability, practical performance, everyday reliability, and proven longevity.
Few cars are as instantly recognizable as an MX-5. No other sports car brings instant admiration, helping make it the centerpiece in the Mazda’s community’s unique sense of camaraderie—one that brings with it a genuinely nostalgic appeal unseen elsewhere.
Having debuted in the Philippines in 2015 in its fourth-generation MX-5 form, the current Miata was developed from the ground up to exude a classic, timeless profile that blends the allure of an open-top roadster with the ultimate expression of Mazda’s Jinba-Ittai philosophy. Translating to “horse and rider as one,” it makes the MX-5 drive like it’s an extension of the driver. One of its most endearing qualities is how its driving dynamics can be enjoyed, regardless of the skill level of the driver.
The ND Miata is now the best-selling MX-5 generation in the Philippines, selling a total of 1,563 units as of June 2025. Sales are split almost evenly between the classic Soft Top and the Retractable Fastback (RF). These numbers cement the Philippines as the biggest market for the MX-5 in Asia outside Japan, outselling MX-5 sales in bigger car markets like China, Korea, Thailand, Indonesia, and Malaysia.
Its evergreen formula—its exterior dimensions have not changed in 35 years, unlike other sports car icons like the Porsche 911, Ford Mustang, and Mini Cooper, whose current versions are much larger than their forebears—has strengthened its appeal among Filipino car enthusiasts making 2023 the single best year for the MX-5 with 205 cars sold. Based on first-half year data, 2025 is shaping up to be yet another banner year for the roadster.
Mazda Philippines also launched a bevy of special and limited-edition models of the MX-5 through the decades, such as the 30th, 35th, and 100th Anniversary Editions. Recognizing and engaging with local creatives and artists, two unique special editions have been crafted for the market: the MCP (Miata Club of the Philippines) 25th Anniversary Edition and the Miata Cup 23rd Anniversary Edition.
2024 brought in a host of upgrades to the MX-5 further enhancing its driving dynamics with track-focused technologies such as Kinematic Posture Control (KPC), Dynamic Stability Control with Track Mode (DSC-Track) and Asymmetric Limited Slip Differential (A-LSD). These further build up on a core consisting of a perfect front-to-rear weight distribution, and of course, the high-revving 184ps 2.0-liter Skyactiv-G engine mated to either a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic.
The success of the fourth-generation MX-5 is also attributed to Mazda Philippines’ commitment and dedication in building a community of enthusiasts and fans, helping spread this infectious, passionate spirit. Personal experience is key, and the MX-5 has cultivated a shared love and admiration through various programs and initiatives.
Over the past 10 years, Mazda Philippines has spearheaded special community programs that included club activities, motorsports series, and enthusiast drives, with the goal of creating closer ties with and between MX-5 owners.
“The MX-5 is one of the most iconic models for Mazda, with a strong racing heritage and timeless, modern design that continues to evolve over the years. The success of the MX-5 is thanks to the unparalleled performance that brings fun and joy to owners, whether in the city or on the race track,” shares Steven Tan, President of Mazda Philippines.
Simply put, the Mazda MX-5 has become one of the most popular cars to ever beautify Philippine streets (and the racetrack). Its driving purity enables it to transcend generations, but above all, it is surrounded and supported by a community of like-minded individuals who believe that, “Miata Is Always The Answer.”
