Motorsport spirit

Mazda Philippines joined the Manila Auto Salon for the first time which brings a motorsports-themed booth built around collaboration with aftermarket partners.

Front and center was the MX-5 Miata Cup 23rd Anniversary Edition, a model that represents Mazda’s Jinba-Ittai focus on the bond between car and driver. The display car was based on the MX-5 2.0L MT Black Top Black Leather variant and carried a racing livery created by Jaykee Evangelista of Groundworks Design.

The layout drew inspiration from classic motorsports themes which gives the lightweight roadster a distinct, competition-ready look.

Mazda enhanced the MX-5 for the show with a complete AutoExe performance package. AutoExe, a tuning house with long experience in Mazda models, contributed upgrades aimed at improving steering precision and overall agility. 

Sharing the spotlight was the debut of the BT-50 4x4 MT BT Racing Concept. Mazda developed the project with several well-known aftermarket brands, again led by Evangelista in a consulting role. The concept truck featured prototype CUSCO suspension and performance parts, 17-inch Concept One Outback wheels wrapped in GT Radial Savero M/T Pro tires, a Mammoth aluminum roof rack, Rhino Armor crossbars, and auxiliary lighting from PIAA. A custom livery by Vinyl Frog completed the build.

Mazda first floated the idea of a BT-50 performance truck during the Mazda Fan Festa PH in May. Following strong interest from BT-50 owners, the brand continued working on the concept with an eye toward launching a one-make BT-50 race series in 2026.

Mazda Philippines president and CEO Steven Tan said the brand’s presence at the show highlights its ongoing work with local and international aftermarket specialists, as well as its efforts to stay connected with the enthusiast community.