Cars
MX-5 Keeps Top Spot as World’s Favorite Convertible
The Mazda MX-5 has once again proven its timeless appeal, holding on to the crown as the world’s best-selling convertible. The two-seater roadster first earned its Guinness World Record back in 2000 and, 25 years later, remains unmatched. Global cumulative sales have topped 1.25 million units since its 1989 debut, all built at Mazda’s Ujina plant in Hiroshima.
In a shrinking market for drop-top sports cars, the MX-5 stands out even more. Data from Jato shows that in 2024 it outsold every other cabriolet worldwide, with 27,669 units delivered. The momentum continues into 2025.
UK and Global Appeal
In Britain, the MX-5 is the best-selling two-seater roadster and ranks second among all convertibles. More than 135,000 units have been sold there since 1990, including nearly 30,000 from the current fourth-generation model. So far in 2025, 859 units have been delivered in the UK, placing it ahead of mainstream rivals and just behind luxury badges like Porsche.
To mark the car’s impact, Mazda UK is displaying its 30th Anniversary MX-5 from the Heritage Fleet at the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) headquarters in London until September 24. It’s a nod to the British roadsters of the 1960s that originally inspired Mazda’s open-top icon.
Philippine Market Strength
The Philippines has also become one of the strongest markets for the MX-5 in Asia outside Japan. As of June 2025, 1,563 fourth-generation ND models have been sold locally. Demand is split nearly evenly between the soft-top and retractable fastback variants, with 40 percent of buyers choosing the six-speed manual transmission.
The MX-5 set a new Philippine record in 2023 with 205 units sold, and current figures suggest 2025 could match or exceed that. To celebrate both the model’s popularity and the ND’s 10th anniversary, Mazda Philippines is hosting an exhibit at Power Plant Mall’s South Court until August 31. Limited-edition commemorative merchandise is also on offer for fans.
Still Driver’s Choice
Available as a fabric-roof Roadster or RF Retractable Fastback, today’s MX-5 continues to emphasize lightweight construction and sharp handling. UK Managing Director Jeremy Thomson described it as “one of the most exciting and satisfying cars money can buy,” adding that Mazda’s dedication to constant refinement over 35 years has kept the MX-5 engaging and accessible.
The current lineup offers eight variants split between Prime-Line, Exclusive-Line, and Homura trims, powered by either the 132ps 1.5-liter or the 184ps 2.0-liter Skyactiv-G engine. All units registered from September 1, 2025, will also carry Mazda’s new six-year, 100,000-mile warranty.
Over three decades, the MX-5 has collected countless awards, inspired passionate owner clubs worldwide, and become a fixture in grassroots motorsport. With its enduring mix of affordability, fun, and driver focus, it remains not just the world’s best-selling convertible but one of the most beloved sports cars of all time.
The Manila auto scene steps into a new phase as Manila International Auto Show 2026 opened today at the World Trade Center Metro Manila and Philippine Trade Training Center, drawing industry leaders, officials, and car brands under one roof.
Organized by Worldbex Services International, the show carries the theme “Powering Mobility.” It highlights new energy vehicles, EV infrastructure, and transport solutions as the industry shifts toward electrification and smarter mobility systems.
The opening ceremony gathered key figures from government and business. Among those present were Joseph L. Ang, Dexter Lloyd Cuajotor, Augustus “Joe” D. Ferreria, Imelda “Emi” Calixto-Rubiano, Markus V. Lacanilao, and Ceferino “Perry” S. Rodolfo representing Department of Trade and Industry.
Ang said the event continues to support the industry’s growth despite ongoing challenges, with a strong focus on innovation and collaboration. The program also highlights commercial mobility and sustainable transport solutions as demand shifts.
More than 500 vehicles are on display across 25 car brands, covering a wide range from internal combustion models to hybrids and full electric vehicles. Visitors can expect product launches, test drives, and interactive exhibits throughout the venue.
Now on its 21st year, MIAS remains one of the country’s largest automotive gatherings. The show runs until April 12, with tickets available online and on-site.
Geely Motor Philippines has launched the Geely EX5 EM-i in the local market, introducing a plug-in hybrid SUV offered in Pro and Max variants.
The model uses Geely’s Global Intelligent Electric Architecture and runs on the EM-i Super Hybrid System. It pairs a 1.5-liter engine rated at 73 kW with an electric motor that produces 160 kW and 262 Nm of torque. The system reaches an engine thermal efficiency of 46.5 percent and a combined system efficiency of up to 92.5 percent.
Geely said the hybrid system uses an E-DHT 11-in-1 electric drive setup. The company reported a 13.5 percent reduction in system weight and a 4.3 percent drop in energy loss compared to the previous generation.
Fuel consumption is rated at 6.2 liters per 100 kilometers under WLTP conditions when battery charge drops below 25 percent. Electric energy use is listed at 14.7 kWh per 100 kilometers. The vehicle can travel up to 83 kilometers in electric mode and reach a combined driving range of 943 kilometers.
The EX5 EM-i measures its cabin space through a 2,755 mm wheelbase. Geely said this results in an 84.3 percent space efficiency figure. The rear seats offer extended legroom and headroom, while storage includes more than 30 compartments. Cargo capacity starts at 428 liters and expands to 2,065 liters with the rear seats folded.
The front seats include ventilation with three levels and use a layered design intended to improve comfort. The model also received several international design awards, including recognition from Red Dot, MUSE, IDA, and A’ Design.
Inside, the SUV uses the Flyme Auto system with three displays. These include a 10.2-inch instrument cluster, a 15.4-inch central screen, and a 13.8-inch head-up display. The system supports multiple audio modes through a 16-speaker setup with a 1,000-watt amplifier. A headrest speaker is included for driver-focused audio output.
The vehicle also includes a camping mode that adjusts lighting, music, and screen settings. It allows external power supply for outdoor use.
Safety features include a triple-power system with backup through dual motors and an engine. The platform uses an oil-electric isolation design and a reinforced body structure. Six airbags come standard.
Driver assistance systems include lane departure warning, collision mitigation, lane change assist, and rear cross-traffic warning. The system uses cameras and radar sensors to monitor surroundings.
Geely said the EX5 EM-i addresses demand for lower fuel costs and flexible driving range. The company cited a Guinness World Record result during a drive from Sydney to Melbourne, where the model recorded 3.83 liters per 100 kilometers.
Geely Motor Philippines entered the local market in 2019. The brand has sold more than 30,000 units in the country. Direct operations began in 2025 under Geely Motor Philippines Corporation, with plans to expand its dealer and service network.
Hariphil Asia Resources Inc. will deploy roadside assistance stations across key Luzon routes for the Holy Week rush, offering support to Chevrolet owners during one of the busiest travel periods of the year.
The company confirmed the rollout of its Chevrolet Road Care Program on April 2, 4, and 5, 2026. Service hours run from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. A total of 11 dealerships will take part, with teams positioned along major highways and travel corridors.
The program covers minor repairs, basic adjustments, maintenance checks, and emergency roadside assistance. Chevrolet said the setup allows motorists to address issues early and avoid delays during long drives.
Stations are divided across North Luzon, Metro Manila, and South Luzon. Locations include Ilocos Norte, Isabela, Dagupan, Baguio, Pampanga, Commonwealth, Makati, Alabang, Cainta, Las Piñas, and Camarines Sur. Each site operates on specific dates within the program window.
The assistance is free for Chevrolet owners. The company said the goal is to keep vehicles in safe running condition during peak travel days when highways see heavier traffic.
HARI President and CEO Maria Fe Perez-Agudo said the initiative focuses on customer safety during long-distance trips. She added that the company will provide timely service and support along key routes.
Chevrolet advised owners to stop by any Road Care station before or during their trip to check their vehicles and address any concerns before they worsen.
