Very nice looking filter there, OP, thanks for the C&P! I normally use the Japanese PE01-14-302A and I was able to stock up on them a little before they were discontinued, but since they are basically no longer available I'm glad to know the -MV version is also very robust! I won't hesitate to use them once I run out of the Japanese-made ones.
...This is the one made in Mexico by what I believe to be Wix...
FYI, the -MV may or may not be made by Wix but it is most definitely NOT the same filter as the Wix 57002/Napa 7002.
- The PE01-14-302A-MV filters have the seal between the filter element and base plate (as shown above), where the Wix 57002 does not.
- The -MV has a different outer shell design (slightly larger diamater).
- The -MV has a different base plate design.
- Just glancing at the pics above, the -MV appears to have different media than the -Wix/Napas that I've cut and observed.
I've used/cut open one of each of the Wix 57002 and NG 7002, and I have two unused -MVs in the basement.
If you want to know my opinion, I think the PE01-14-302A-MV is constructed
way, way better than the Wix 57002. I did have issues (media breaches) with the first 57002 (pre-louver design) but the updated version (with louvers) had no visible problems. As expensive as the Wix versions are, I don't see the need to use them over any of the Mazda filters (though I'd still use a Wix in a pinch if necessary).