Electric Cars

This captivating article unveils a remarkable transformation of a 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata Sport, meticulously redesigned with the sophisticated aesthetic of an Aston Martin. Currently featured on the auction platform Bring a Trailer, this unique vehicle combines the celebrated driving experience of the Miata with the luxurious allure of a classic Aston Martin. The modification, executed by Simpson Design, highlights a striking exterior overhaul and an upgraded interior, offering enthusiasts a rare opportunity to acquire a car that masterfully blends two distinct automotive identities.

2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata Sport Undergoes Aston Martin-Inspired Transformation, Now on Auction Block

In a fascinating automotive development, a 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata Sport, known internally as the NC generation, has been expertly reimagined with the distinctive styling of an Aston Martin coupe. This custom creation, now accessible for bids on the Bring a Trailer auction site, presents a compelling fusion of Japanese engineering and British luxury design.

The transformation, skillfully carried out by Simpson Design in Clinton, Washington, extends far beyond a simple badge swap. The vehicle boasts an entirely new front fascia, featuring an Aston Martin-style grille, redesigned headlights, and prominent fender vents, all contributing to a sophisticated visual profile reminiscent of a Zagato collaboration. The rear has also received a subtle but impactful restyling, complemented by elegant 16-inch knock-off wheels. Although the door skins remain original, the car now sports sleek door handles repurposed from a Lancia Flavia, further enhancing its unique character.

Inside the cabin, the Aston Martin theme continues with a wood-rimmed Nardi steering wheel proudly displaying the Aston Martin logo. The dashboard and center console are adorned with tasteful wood trim, and the driver and passenger are ensconced in fixed-back vinyl bucket seats, blending classic luxury with sporty functionality.

Underneath its elegant new skin, the car retains its original powertrain: a robust 2.0-liter MZR inline-four engine from Mazda. This powerplant delivers 166 horsepower and 140 pound-feet of torque, channeled through a six-speed automatic transmission. The odometer records approximately 26,000 miles, indicating a well-preserved base vehicle for this ambitious customization.

The ongoing auction, with five days remaining, reflects a current bid of $20,500, drawing significant attention from collectors and enthusiasts intrigued by this cross-brand automotive artistry.

This innovative project showcases the boundless creativity within the automotive enthusiast community. While the third-generation Miata's styling may not universally appeal to purists, its renowned driving dynamics remain unchallenged. This custom Aston Martin-esque Miata offers a brilliant solution for those who appreciate the Miata's performance but desire a more distinctive and luxurious appearance. It playfully challenges perceptions, allowing its owner to enjoy the best of both worlds – the agile handling of a Miata with the distinguished presence of an Aston Martin. It's a testament to how imaginative modifications can elevate a vehicle, sparking conversation and inspiring a fresh appreciation for automotive design and engineering.

Hyundai is making significant strides in the Chinese electric vehicle market with the unveiling of its Ioniq V at the prestigious 2026 Beijing Motor Show. This new model, distinct from its global Ioniq counterparts, showcases a unique design philosophy and advanced technological features tailored specifically for Chinese consumers. Representing a bold commitment to the region, the Ioniq V is poised to be a key player in Hyundai's ambitious strategy to launch numerous new energy vehicles in China over the coming years.

Hyundai Unveils China-Exclusive Ioniq V Electric Sedan at Beijing Motor Show

In a significant move for its electric vehicle strategy, Hyundai officially presented the Ioniq V, a brand-new electric sedan exclusively designed for the Chinese market, at the 2026 Beijing Motor Show. This highly anticipated vehicle follows closely on the heels of the Venus concept, which offered a preview of the Ioniq V's groundbreaking design language. Unlike the globally available Ioniq 5 SUV, the Ioniq V, with its distinctive 'V' designation, signals Hyundai's tailored approach to cater to the specific demands and preferences of Chinese consumers.

Measuring approximately 192.9 inches (4.9 meters) in length and 1.89 meters in width, the Ioniq V is comparable in size to Hyundai's Sonata sedan. However, it distinguishes itself with a significantly extended wheelbase of 114.1 inches (2.9 meters), a benefit of its dedicated electric platform, which maximizes interior space and enhances ride comfort. The car's exterior features a striking, wedge-shaped silhouette and frameless doors, a design concept Hyundai dubs "The Origin," departing notably from the aesthetics of its other Ioniq models.

The interior of the Ioniq V is a testament to minimalist design and cutting-edge technology. It features a sprawling 27-inch 4K resolution touchscreen that spans across the dashboard, providing an immersive digital experience for both the driver and the front passenger. Traditional physical controls have been largely replaced, with essential driving information conveyed through an advanced head-up display, negating the need for a separate instrument cluster. Hyundai has indicated that the long-range version of the Ioniq V is expected to achieve over 373 miles (600 kilometers) on a single charge, based on China's CLTC testing cycle.

This launch marks a pivotal moment for Hyundai in China, where it, like many traditional automakers, faces intense competition from rapidly innovating local brands. In partnership with BAIC through their Beijing Hyundai joint venture, the company is investing 8 billion yuan (approximately $1.1 billion) to enhance its competitive edge. The Ioniq V is just one of an ambitious lineup of 20 new models Hyundai plans to introduce in China within the next five years, including an SUV based on the Earth concept and other electric vehicles that may feature range-extending combustion engines. Hyundai's ultimate goal is to achieve annual sales of 500,000 units in China by 2031.

The introduction of the Ioniq V underscores Hyundai's strategic pivot towards market-specific electrification. While models like the Ioniq 3 and the Boulder concept are being developed for other regions, the Ioniq V's exclusive availability in China highlights a recognition of the unique dynamics and rapid evolution of the Chinese EV market. This targeted approach, coupled with significant investment, suggests a renewed determination from Hyundai to reclaim and expand its foothold in the world's largest automotive market.