Mazda joins Manila Auto Salon 2025 with race-ready MX-5 and BT-50 builds

Mazda Philippines is joining the Manila Auto Salon for the first time this year, bringing two show-stopping vehicles to the country’s top custom and tuning car show. Known for its support of car culture and driving enjoyment, Mazda brought a race-inspired MX-5 and a performance-themed BT-50, showing what the brand can do with the help of local and international tuning partners.

On display is the MX-5 Miata Cup 23rd Anniversary Edition, based on the MX-5 2.0L MT Black Top with black leather interior. This version features a custom racing design made by Jaykee Evangelista from Groundworks Design, inspired by classic motorsports colors and style. To match the look, Mazda added a full set of AutoExe performance parts, including a front under spoiler, carbon seat bar bezel, bucket seats, a quick shifter, stabilizer bars, a rear cross bar, and a dual center sports muffler. AutoExe is a well-known Mazda tuning brand from Japan, focused on improving driving feel and response.

Next to it is the BT-50 4x4 MT BT Racing Concept, a one-off truck project built in partnership with top aftermarket brands. This build was also led by Jaykee Evangelista and shows what a performance version of the BT-50 might look like. It comes with prototype CUSCO suspension, six 17-inch Concept One Outback wheels, GT Radial Savero M/T Pro tires, a Mammoth aluminum roof rack, Rhino Armor crossbars, Raid mudflaps, a custom bed-mounted spare wheel, and off-road lights from PIAA. It’s finished with a wrap by Vinyl Frog.

Mazda first teased the idea of a performance BT-50 at the Mazda Fan Festa PH back in May. After getting strong feedback from the local BT-50 community, the team developed the truck further with the goal of starting a BT-50 one-make race series in 2026.

Mazda Philippines President Steven Tan said the brand’s first appearance at the Auto Salon shows its support for both car fans and tuning culture. By bringing these two builds to the show, Mazda wants to connect with people who love customizing and driving. 

According to Tan, joining both the Philippine International Motor Show and the Manila Auto Salon helped Mazda bring its cars closer to the people who love them. You can explore the full lineup and get a quote anytime at AutoDeal.com.ph.