Mazda MX-5

1,016 registered in New Zealand · 1989–2026 · 100% from Japan

The Mazda MX-5 is a recognisable name on New Zealand roads, with 1,016 registered across model years 1989 to 2026. It averages 7.2 L/100km in fuel consumption and produces an average of 120 kW. Most are petrol-powered convertibles with a 2.0L engine.

Below you'll find a complete breakdown of fuel types, body styles, drivetrain options, regional distribution, and estimated running costs. Select a specific model year to see detailed specs, buyer insights, and variant-level data for that generation of the MX-5.

Select Year

1,016 On NZ Roads
2.0L Engine
7.2 L/100km
120 kW

Fuel Types

Mazda MX-5 fuel type breakdown: PETROL 100%.

Fleet Age Profile

How many Mazda MX-5 vehicles from each manufacture year are still registered in NZ. Taller bars mean more of that year on the road — better parts availability and more mechanics who know it.

Mazda MX-5 fleet age profile: 2022: 52, 2023: 25, 2024: 24, 2025: 40, 2026: 14.

Drivetrain

Transmission

Mazda MX-5 transmissions: 6-GEAR MANUAL 54%, 6-GEAR AUTO 30%, 5-GEAR AUTO 5%.

Engine Size

Mazda MX-5 engine sizes: 2.0L 83%, 1.5L 5%, 1.8L 3%, 1.8L 3%, 2.0L 2%.

Imported From

Mazda MX-5 imported from: Japan 100%.

When They Arrived in NZ

When Mazda MX-5 vehicles were first registered in New Zealand — showing import waves and buying trends.

Mazda MX-5 NZ arrival timeline: 2022: 55, 2023: 27, 2024: 26, 2025: 42, 2026: 14.

Estimated Running Costs

Select a model year to estimate fuel costs for that specific Mazda MX-5.

per week
per year
per km
km/year
1,000 km 50,000 km
Fuel price
Fuel economy
Fuel type
Prices updated

Colours

RED 386 (38%)
GREY 196 (19%)
BLUE 102 (10%)
SILVER 90 (9%)
WHITE 87 (9%)
BLACK 85 (8%)
GREEN 33 (3%)
ORANGE 19 (2%)

Colours shown are approximate representations of NZTA basic colour categories, not exact manufacturer paint codes.

Where They Are in NZ

Mazda MX-5 regional distribution: AUCKLAND: 368, CHRISTCHURCH: 91, TAURANGA: 36, WELLINGTON: 35, HAMILTON: 35.

Body Types

Similar Cars

1 Mazda logo
Mazda Roadster 2,045
1989–2024
2 Ford logo
Ford Mustang 1,379
1964–2026 12.8 L/100km
3 Bmw logo
Bmw Z3 1,050
1996–2003
4 Mazda logo
Mazda Eunos 1,033
1988–2006
5 Mercedes Benz logo
Mercedes Benz Slk 938
1997–2016

Frequently Asked Questions

How many Mazda MX-5 are there in New Zealand?

There are 1,016 Mazda MX-5 vehicles registered in New Zealand as of March 2026, making up 0% of the total passenger fleet. Model years range from 1989 to 2026.

How much does it cost to run a Mazda MX-5?

Based on NZTA fuel economy data, the Mazda MX-5 averages 7.2 L/100km. At current fuel prices ($3.41/L), that works out to roughly $57 per week or $2,946 per year in fuel, assuming 12,000 km of annual driving. Actual costs vary by model year, driving conditions, and fuel type.

What body type is the Mazda MX-5?

The Mazda MX-5 is primarily classified as a convertible in the NZTA fleet register. It is also available in other body configurations: sports car, saloon, hatchback. The most common fuel type is petrol.

Are Mazda MX-5 cars imported or NZ-new?

100% of Mazda MX-5 vehicles in New Zealand originated from Japan. The majority arrived as used imports, which is typical for this model. Check the import status and origin country for the specific year you're considering on the individual year pages.