Mazda MX-5 designer Tom Matano has passed away

The automotive world has just lost an icon after Tsutomu “Tom” Matano, automotive designer and motoring journalist, passed away on September 20, 2025.

Widely known for being the designer of the original Mazda MX-5/Miata (NA and NB generations), Matano first held various design positions at GM, BMW, and Volvo. But it was in 1983 when he joined Mazda North American Operations as Chief Designer, where he had a personal hand in designing what is perhaps the most famous roadster to date.

In fact, Tom Matano penned a sketch of the first-generation Mazda MX-5 way back in 1984, five years before it made its global debut in 1989 at the Chicago Auto Show as the Mazda eXperimental 5.

Apart from penning the original Mazda MX-5/Miata, Matano held various positions in Mazda North America, including vice president of Design, vice president of Western Operations for Mazda R&D North America Inc., and Executive Designer and Director of Mazda North American Operations. He was also appointed Executive Designer for Mazda Motor Corp. Japan from 1999 to 2002.

Another Mazda vehicle Matano had a personal hand in designing was the third-generation RX-7 FD. While Matano was not the lead designer, he helped Mazda's Chief designer (at the time), Yoichi Sato, in refining the looks of the rotary-powered sports car.

When Matano visited the Philippines a few years ago, AutoIndustriya.com alumnus Aurick Go got to personally meet with the late designer and talk about not just the Mazda MX-5, but also about his personal RX-7 FD. Heck, Matano himself told Go that the sweeping lower section of the door of the RX-7 FD was something he and his colleagues designed to specifically entice drivers to step inside.

With the Mazda MX-5/Miata continuing to inspire designers and enthusiasts the world over, we hope that Tom Matano's “Always Inspired” philosophy will always play a big role.

Rest In Peace, Tom Matano.