The automotive world mourns the loss of Tom Matano, the brilliant mind credited with conceiving the original Mazda Miata, who passed away on September 20th, 2025, at 76 years old. News of his death spread through social media over the weekend, subsequently confirmed by the Miata Reunion organizers in conjunction with a San Francisco hospital.
Matano's distinguished career was extensive and varied, yet he is most fondly remembered for his pivotal contributions at Mazda. Beginning in 1983, he spearheaded Mazda's inaugural U.S. design studio, where he transformed the nascent concept of the original MX-5 Miata into a tangible, beloved vehicle. Following this success, he directed the design evolution of the third-generation RX-7, a car often celebrated as one of Japan's most aesthetically pleasing automotive creations. Beyond his role as a designer, Matano was deeply integrated into the enthusiast community. He recognized that the Miata's enduring appeal wasn't merely about its initial release but also about sustained support and evolution. He consistently championed updates, encouraged its racing community, and was a constant presence at Miata gatherings, often signing vehicles with his distinctive tagline, 'Always Inspired.' Additionally, Matano dedicated himself to education, transitioning from Mazda in 2002 to become the executive director of the School of Industrial Design at the Academy of Art University in San Francisco, where he influenced numerous aspiring designers across various disciplines before retiring earlier this year.
Born in Nagasaki in 1947, Tsutomu \"Tom\" Matano earned an engineering degree from Tokyo's Seikei University in 1969. Driven by a passion for car design, he moved to the United States in 1970 to attend the Art Center College of Design in Pasadena, California. His professional journey commenced at General Motors, working with the Oldsmobile division before a transfer to Holden's design studio in Australia. After a seven-year tenure with Holden, Matano joined BMW in Germany, contributing to the initial sketches of the E36 3 Series. However, his desire for involvement in a broader range of projects led him back to Southern California, where he accepted the role of chief designer at Mazda’s North American design studio. It was during this period that Bob Hall, a former journalist and product planner in Japan, was developing the concept for a lightweight sports car inspired by classic roadsters. This project gained significant momentum under the patronage of Kenichi Yamamoto, who became Mazda's president in 1984. While much of the Miata's foundational work occurred in Japan, the U.S. studio, under Matano's leadership, played a crucial role after winning an internal design competition. In 1986, Matano articulated a long-term vision for the Miata, ensuring its sustained relevance through future generations. His vision extended to the RX-7, a project whose timeless aesthetic he passionately shaped after his California studio won its design competition. His ascension within Mazda continued as he led R&D for Mazda North America and later oversaw all of Mazda's global design operations. Matano remained a beloved figure in the automotive community, serving as a guest judge at the Pebble Beach Concours and a regular at Miata events, always generous with his time and insights. His unwavering passion for cars, design, and people profoundly impacted those who knew him, as he continued to drive his cherished FD RX-7 and 1996 Miata \"M\" Edition around the San Francisco Bay Area.
Tom Matano's enduring legacy is evident in the millions of Miatas and the aesthetically stunning FD RX-7s that grace roads worldwide. His influence also lives on through the numerous students he mentored and the countless individuals fortunate enough to have crossed paths with him. His life's work stands as a testament to the power of vision, dedication, and a profound love for creation, inspiring future generations to pursue excellence and innovation in their own endeavors.