From First Drive and Beyond: Celebrating 10 Years of the Mazda MX-5 “ND”

Ten years since its debut, the fourth-generation Mazda MX-5 (widely known as the “ND Miata”) continues to redefine what a sportscar can be.

Beloved for its accessible thrills, everyday reliability, and timeless performance, the ND isn’t just admired, it’s cherished.

More than a machine, it’s the beating heart of a passionate community, where camaraderie and nostalgia converge in a way no other car has ever quite matched.

Launched in the Philippines in 2015, the fourth-generation MX-5 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. Literally translating to “Horse and Rider as One,” it makes the MX-5 drive as it were the extension of the driver’s body providing the most smiles per mile. It also guarantees an approachable driving experience appreciated by all, regardless of experience or skill.

Today, the “ND Miata” is 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. These numbers cement the Philippines as the leading market for the MX-5 in Asia outside Japan. That’s right, the continent of Asia.

Its evergreen formula has strengthened its appeal among Filipino car enthusiasts making 2023 the single best year for the MX-5 with 205 sold. Based on first-half year data, 2025 is shaping up to be yet another banner year for the roadster.

Keeping things fresh, Mazda Philippines also launched a bevy of special and limited-edition models of the MX-5 through the decade 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 184 PS 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 cascade this infectious, passionate spirit. 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.

Truly, the Mazda MX-5 has become one of the most popular cars to ever grace Philippine streets and the race track. Its driving purity enables it to transcend through generations, but above all, it is surrounded and supported by a community of like-minded individuals who believe that, “Miata is always the answer.” This deep bond between Filipinos and what, undeniably, the soul of Mazda, means it is here to stay.

###

About Bermaz Auto Philippines, Inc. (Mazda Philippines)

Bermaz Auto Philippines, Inc. (Mazda Philippines) is the exclusive distributor of Mazda vehicles and parts in the Philippines. Mazda Philippines’ exemplary after-sales service record has been ranked #1 in the industry twice—in the 2016 and 2019 J.D. Power Customer Service Index Study. There are 13 Mazda 3S dealerships located across the Philippines and Metro Manila – Mazda C-5 Pasig, Mazda Quezon Avenue, Mazda Makati, Mazda Alabang, Mazda Sta. Rosa, Mazda Pampanga, Mazda Dagupan, Mazda Cabanatuan, Mazda Tarlac, Mazda Cebu, Mazda Bacolod, Mazda Cagayan De Oro, and Mazda Davao.

Leave a Reply