Prepare to have your day interrupted for a showstopper! This week I bring you the absolutely stunning 2025 MX-5 Miata 35th Anniversary Edition, one of the most exclusive MX-5’s ever made. Only 300 of these were originally available in the U.S. but due to demand and pre-order reservations, Mazda was able to secure 50 more state-side, bringing the new total to 350.
Exterior
The 35th Anniversary Edition is a jaw-dropper indeed in Artisan Red Metallic paint, one of the most beautiful paint finishes on the planet, and the product of Mazda’s bespoke paint process that produces a beautiful three-layer finish.
It’s paired with a beige soft-top with is super simple to operate. Bright finish 17-inch wheels are just exquisite! It’s absolutely can’t-take-your-eyes-off gorgeous.
Special 35th anniversary serialized badging on the front fender denotes its status. In back, a color-matched rear spoiler and single dual-outlet exhaust are perfection.
Exterior equipment also includes an Adaptive front lighting system, daytime running lights, and dual-power remote mirrors.
Performance
A 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine delivers 181-horsepower and 151 pound-feet of torque - perfectly matched specs for this lightweight roadster. Acceleration is fun and downright exciting not only to feel but also to hear thanks to the engine rev's and sporty exhaust note. The 35th Anniversary Edition pairs it exclusively with a 6-speed manual gearbox- one of my favorites. Premium fuel isn't required, but recommended.
Interior
The sporty, driver-centric cabin is everything you want a roadster to be. Tan Nappa Leather seats welcome you and dare you to ever leave.
The sport bucket seats feature 35th Anniversary logos embossed in their head rests along with Bose speakers. The seat backs are treated to piano black trim. I absolutely love that Mazda brought the Artisan Red hue into the interior trim via the AC vents and upper doors. Nice touch, Mazda!
Revisions to the MX-5's digital instrument display in 2024 made it brighter. Other features include a leather-wrapped steering wheel, gear shift knob and emergency parking brake handle. The 35th Anniversary's tan theme extends to the carpeting and floor mats.
Based on the Grand Touring trim, the 35th Anniversary Edition is loaded with goodies. Those include 3-level heated seats, 9-speaker Bose audio, an 8.8-inch Mazda Connect display with navigation and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, Alexa Built-in, and 2 USB-C ports.
Being a 2-seater, space-saving design measures include a cupholder that extends out from the console of the passenger side. Cargo space actually impressed - I was able to fit a small microwave in there!
Safety
Mazda's standard i-Activsense safety features include Blind Spot Monitoring, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, Smart Brake Support, Secondary Collision Reduction, High beam Control and Lane Departure Warning. Other standard features include cruise control and a rear view monitor. Traffic Sign Recognition is displayed on the digital display. The manual variants do NOT get Radar Cruise Control or Distance & Speed Alert.
Ride and Drive
This rear-wheel drive roadster is a sheer joy to drive. A nearly perfect 50/50 weight distribution, updated steering feel and last year's 6-speed manual updates lend itself to one of the most fun rides out there.
Variants with the manual transmission are equipped with a shock tower brace - Front, Asymmetric Limited-Slip Differential and Sport-tuned suspension with Bilstein dampers. Handling is perfect. Drop the top and it's flat-out exhilarating! This is what you want life to feel like all of the time.
What You'll Pay
This gorgeous two-seater in all its exclusivity is under $38K!
Verdict
Destined to be a future collector car - the absolutely stunning 2025 Mazda MX-5 Miata 35th Anniversary Edition is going to make its 350 U.S. owners very, very happy.
2025 Mazda MX-5 Miata 35th Anniversary
- What I liked most: It's jaw-dropping exterior and pure driving enjoyment!
- What I would change: Nada. You can't mess with perfection.
- MSRP: Base: $36,250. As equipped: $37,435.
- Official Color: Artisan Red Metallic with beige soft-top.
- Fuel Economy: 26 city/34 highway/29 combined.
- Odometer when tested: 672 miles.
- Curb Weight: 2,366 pounds.
- Spare tire: Tire Puncture Kit.
- Length-Width-Height: 154.1” long/68.3” wide/48.8” high.
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 11.89 gallons with the filler on the driver's side.
- Towing Capacity: N/A.
- 2025 Mazda MX-5 Miata 35th in a few words: Run! Get yours if you still can!
- Warranty: 60-month/60,000-mile powertrain; 36-month/36,000 mile bumper-to-bumper warranty. 25-hour roadside assistance.
- Final Assembly Location: Hiroshima, Japan.
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Manufacturer's website: Mazda
