Driving is often perceived as a routine task—just a means of getting from point A to point B. However, at Mazda, driving is a passion. The company is dedicated to creating joyful and effortless experiences that invigorate both drivers and passengers alike. This commitment is embodied in the concept of Jinba-ittai, which describes the seamless connection between driver and machine, and serves as the essence of every Mazda vehicle.
“Every time you step into one of our cars, you’re celebrating the joy of driving,” says Steven Tan, president of Mazda Philippines. “Driving is about the freedom to explore and achieve. Unlike other modes of transportation, in a Mazda, you are the architect of your own journey. For over a century, Mazda has embraced this philosophy, resonating deeply with our customers.”
At the 9th Philippine International Motor Show (PIMS), this passion is on full display. From designers and engineers to artisans, everyone at Mazda is united in their commitment to innovation, performance, and exhilaration. Mazda has consistently pushed boundaries and forged its own path, offering vehicles powered by internal combustion, hybrid technology, and pure electric systems—all exemplifying precision engineering and a dedication to excellence. This is particularly evident in Mazda’s storied history with the rotary engine.
Mazda Rotary Heritage
Mazda has a rich legacy with the rotary engine, which spans over 55 years. Captivated by its smoothness and compact design, Mazda leveraged its advanced machining and material expertise to produce the world’s first mass-produced rotary engine in the 1957 Cosmo Sport. This was followed by the iconic first-generation RX-7 in 1973. Mazda’s relentless innovation culminated in the #55 Mazda 787B, which triumphed at the 1991 24 Hours of Le Mans, marking a historic win as the first Japanese manufacturer and the only one powered by a piston-less engine.
Even as emissions regulations tightened a decade ago, Mazda ingeniously reintroduced the rotary engine with the e-Skyactiv-R in the Mazda MX-30 R-EV. This innovative powertrain serves as a generator for the onboard lithium-ion battery, achieving an impressive 600-kilometer range. Its compact 830-cc engine is designed to fit seamlessly alongside a high-output electric motor, showcasing Mazda’s commitment to balancing tradition with cutting-edge technology in its pursuit of carbon neutrality.
Philippine Endurance Cup
In a bid to dominate this year’s Philippine Kalayaan Cup Endurance Challenge, a race-optimized version of the #55 Team MSCC Mazda Miata MX-5 was unveiled by Angie King. This striking vehicle, showcased as an art installation at the Mazda pavilion, is set to compete in the upcoming 8-hour Bonifacio Cup on November 24, 2024.
Demonstrating its reliability and durability as a racing platform, the Team MSCC Mazda Miata MX-5 will feature a stock powertrain during the endurance race. Its 184 PS, 205 Nm 2.0-liter Skyactiv-G engine and 6-speed Skyactiv-Drive manual transmission mirror those found in the MX-5 available at Mazda showrooms nationwide. To maximize performance, Angie King has significantly lightened the car, constructing its body entirely from Carbon Fiber-Reinforced Plastic (CFRP), reducing its weight by an impressive 30% to just 700 kilograms, approximately 300 kg lighter than the standard model.
AutoExe Customization Program
Following its soft launch earlier this year, Mazda Philippines proudly announces its official status as an authorized distributor of AutoExe tuning parts and accessories. The AutoExe Customization Program for both new and existing Mazda owners reinforces Mazda Philippines’ commitment to enhancing the vehicle ownership experience. At PIMS, a selection of parts was showcased on the Mazda3, CX-60, and MX-5, now available for order at any authorized Mazda dealership nationwide. Plans are underway to expand the availability of more parts and models soon.
Founded by former Mazda works driver Yojiro “Mr. Le Mans” Terada, AutoExe parts are designed not only for track use but also for everyday driving. These components combine Terada’s passion for motorsport with meticulous engineering, enhancing driving dynamics without compromising comfort or practicality. Representatives from AutoExe, including Yuuichiro Ohtomi (Executive Managing Director), Shingo Soma (General Manager), and Yuki Sakurai (Marketing Department), were present at PIMS. Although unable to attend in person, Terada-san sent a heartfelt message to commemorate the launch of AutoExe performance parts in the Philippines.
Mazda Philippines operates 14 dealerships across the Philippines and Metro Manila, including:
- 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 Iloilo
- Mazda Bacolod
- Mazda Cagayan De Oro
- Mazda Davao
