The Mazda MX-5 has bagged two awards at the World Car Awards, presented at the New York International Motor Show. It was named as the 2016 World Car of the Year, as well as the 2016 World Car Design of the Year. It is the first time in the history of the awards that a single model has taken both titles.

"What a wonderful honour, to have the Mazda MX-5 named World Car of the Year," said Masahiro Moro, President and CEO, Mazda North American Operations, and Managing Executive Officer, Mazda Motor Corporation. "As our iconic MX-5 roadster approaches one million units of production, this award is proof that it is as young, vibrant, fun and relevant as ever. While I accept this award on behalf of the company, I do so representing every Mazda employee, retail partner and customer around the world who has ever felt the joy of driving a pure roadster. We say 'Driving Matters' in our advertising, and we prove it in our cars."

The World Car Awards jurors observed that, "With the launch of its all new MX-5, Mazda has thrown out the blueprint and gone back to basics - back to 1989 basics. Shorter, lower, wider and - most importantly - lighter, the new MX-5 comes with a choice of either 1.5 or 2.0-litre naturally aspirated petrol engines and the promise of unparalleled 'Jinba ittai' - a term meaning oneness between car and driver. And yes, it's still one of the best driver's cars around."