ALL-NEW MAZDA3 MPS MPS ‘SPER-HATCH’ NOW ON SALE PRICED FROM £21,500

· All-new Mazda3 MPS ‘super-hatch’ now on sale from £21,500 (OTR)
· Turbocharged 2.3-litre petrol engine generates 260ps and 380Nm output
· Sensational acceleration to 62mph in just 6.1sec, with limited 155mph top speed
· Uniquely bold styling kit delivers sophisticated boost to sporty appearance
· Six-speed transmission and torque-sensing super limited-slip differential (LSD)
· Premium BOSE® audio system with intelligent sound equalisation system

The all-new Mazda3 MPS delivers a unique combination of even more exhilarating driving fun and everyday compact car practicality. It retains the sensational 155mph performance of its predecessor, while adopting the numerous innovations of the second-generation Mazda3 on which it is based. Improved aerodynamics give greater high-speed stability. A stiffer bodyshell, new power steering and modified suspension guarantee a compliant ride with crisp, precise responses to driver inputs. Higher gearing and the application of Mazda’s weight-reducing ‘Gram Strategy’ helps to reduce CO2 emissions by 3 percent and ensure the new model meets the stricter Euro 5 emission standards.

“Our latest Mazda3 MPS is a strikingly bold design, more dynamic looking, more aggressive and more assertive than ever before,” comments Mark Cameron, Sales & Marketing Director, Mazda Motors UK. “The new bonnet air-intake, new-style 18-inch alloy wheels and larger rear spoiler create the muscular, athletic look of a sprinter. Delivering sensationally spirited performance, the new Mazda3 MPS puts the heat back into the hot-hatch sector with ‘stand out’ looks that put rivals in the shade and it boasts exquisite handling and incredible dynamics.

“Typical of Mazda’s engineering ethos, the new Mazda3 MPS is a very complete package – not just in terms of its enhanced powertrain and chassis upgrades, but also with regard to its very high level of standard equipment. And alongside sensational performance it will of course retain the accessibility, practicality, reliability and build quality of its sister models,” adds Cameron.

The all-new Mazda3 MPS is being marketed in the UK as a single, generously specified and lavishly equipped model, priced at £21,500 (on the road) including mica or metallic paint finish. The unique MPS body styling – featuring aggressive bonnet air scoop, special front wings, new grille, new bumpers and deeper sills, plus a larger rear wing – adds 20mm to the length of the regular Sport model.
Power and control, with safety and refinement
Each Mazda3 MPS is fitted with the immensely powerful and responsive MZR 2.3 DISI* Turbo engine – carried over from the previous model, but updated to ensure it meets Euro 5 emission requirements without a loss of power. A new exhaust system, with dual tail pipes, results in a 10dB noise reduction at engine speeds over 5,000rpm.

As before, this turbocharged petrol engine generates 260ps and 380Nm of torque (at just 3,000rpm) and drives the front wheels via a six-speed manual transmission. An electronic throttle and electronic boost pressure control ensure lively throttle response and stunningly fast acceleration without turbo lag. Sophisticated computer-controlled electronics modulate the delivery of torque to minimise torque-steer and to complement the operation of the limited-slip differential – ensuring maximum traction.

The six-speed manual gearbox has wider spaced gear ratios than the previous model and is fitted with low-viscosity fluid to reduce shift effort when the transmission is cold. Like the regular Mazda3, the new Mazda3 MPS places the gear shift lever 60mm higher and slanted towards the driver, while the gearbox design also ensures precise and clean shift characteristics for more driving fun.

Stiffer bodyshell & revised chassis
Besides reinforcing the body structure – achieving a 41 percent and 15 percent improvement in torsional and flexural stiffness respectively, compared to the previous model – Mazda engineers also gave the new Mazda3 MPS a more sporty suspension set up, without degrading ride comfort. Both the MacPherson front suspension and the multi-link rear suspension have higher spring rates, larger stabiliser (anti-roll) bars and higher-performance dampers for a flatter ride with less roll. The suspension is also lowered by 5mm compared to other new Mazda3 models.

Wider, new-style alloy wheels are fitted with wider, lower profile (225/40 section) tyres and upgraded front brakes, feature larger 320 mm ventilated discs. The power steering now features electro-hydraulic assistance tuned to produce a more direct steering feel and an even closer bond between car and driver, a true Mazda trademark.

Fully specified and lavishly equipped
The all-new Mazda3 MPS is so lavishly equipped as standard that there are no factory-fitted options available. Standard premium features include Bluetooth® technology (that enables wireless operation of both mobile phones and playing MP3 devices through the car’s audio system), Welcome Mode lighting (which fades-up the interior lights when the door is opened and the centre display, audio and air-conditioning lights when the driver is seated), and a surround-sound BOSE® premium audio system with 10 speakers, plus steering-wheel mounted audio controls.

* Direct Injection Spark Injection
The driver-oriented cockpit and dashboard with a wrap-around, sporty feel and an extra special ambience is complemented by new front sports bucket seats, which ‘cocoon’ the occupants and give greater thigh and back support, are part-trimmed in black leather. Red MPS graphics appear on the seats, door trims and dashboard, while red stitching on the steering wheel, gearshift, handbrake, centre armrest and door trims contrasts with the black keynote interior décor.

All-new Mazda3 MPS also comes with Mazda’s new MID (multi information display) with a compact satellite navigation system developed especially for this model. It uses a high-resolution 11 cm (4.1 inch) screen mounted in the dashboard’s upper section, where it can be seen easily, and it can be operated using a control switch on the steering wheel.

Comfort and convenience equipment includes dual-zone climate control air-conditioning, electric windows front and rear (with global closing), a heated front windscreen and smart keyless entry. A push button start, and a new LCD turbo-boost gauge between the main instruments provide a real sense of sportiness to back up the performance credentials.

An arsenal of ‘active’ safety technologies
Naturally, safety is paramount on the high-performance Mazda3 MPS and it is equipped with an array of ‘active’ safety systems to minimise the hazards of everyday driving – including a tyre pressure monitoring system and ‘adaptive’ front bi-xenon headlights that turn to illuminate curves ahead.

A Traction Control System (TCS) and Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) are standard, as is the new Emergency Stop Signalling (ESS) system that automatically activates the hazard warning lights at cruising speeds when the ABS sensors detect emergency braking. The performance of the four-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is enhanced by Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Emergency Brake Assist (EBA).

Additional safety is provided by the new Rear Vehicle Monitoring system (RVM), previously available only on Mazda6. This aid to safe lane-changing uses wide-angle radar units to monitor traffic behind the Mazda3 MPS and warns the driver of an approaching vehicle before he/she has a chance to move across into a busy lane by mistake. The system, which is effective in all weathers, also detects vehicles driving in the ‘blind spot’ area and does not monitor or detect cars following behind in the same lane.

Like all other Mazda3 models, the MPS is equipped with front, side and curtain airbags, active front headrestraints, front seatbelt pre-tensioners and load-limiters.

Ultimate expression of Zoom-Zoom
“The exciting all-new Mazda3 MPS is Mazda's highest performance hatchback and it gives fleet decision-makers, company and private car drivers the opportunity to choose a high-performance, more than credible alternative to the hot hatch offerings from other marques,” adds Mark Cameron. “With its truly exhilarating dynamics, practicality and unrivalled performance, the all-new Mazda3 MPS is the ultimate expression of ‘Zoom-Zoom’ driving excitement in a sophisticated super-hatch. It embodies the true spirit of the UK’s favourite sportscar brand, appealing to both the heart and the head – the perfect flagship for our newly introduced Mazda3 range,” concludes Cameron.

All-new Mazda3 MPS will be available with a choice of four body colours at no extra charge – Aluminium Silver Metallic, Black Mica, Velocity Red Mica and Crystal White Pearlescent.

For further information please contact David Morgan or Chris Rockett on 0800 021 4370.

EXTRA SAVINGS WITH NEW MAZDA ‘SCRAPPAGE PROGRAMME’ OFFERS

Mazda has significantly enhanced its range of ‘Scrappage Programme’ offers. Customers trading in a car of 10 years old or more can now benefit from extra savings, ranging from a total of £2,000 minimum up to £6,000 maximum on some models at Victoria Park Mazda.

“Now that the Government-backed scrappage scheme for older cars is running smoothly, Mazda has taken the opportunity to review the range of supporting allowances to ensure it is offering customers the best possible deals for the summer,” comments Gareth Jones, dealer principal at Victoria Park Mazda.

“These improved Mazda allowances, together with our products’ core attributes – stylish design, generous specifications, Zoom-Zoom driving pleasure and legendary reliability – plus our competitive finance packages, make purchasing a Mazda a uniquely attractive proposition this summer,” adds Mr Jones.

Mazda Scrappage Programme

Mazda2
£1,000 Govt’ Allowance
£1,000 Mazda Allowance
£2,000 Total Customer Saving

Mazda3
£1,000 Govt’ Allowance
£2,000 Mazda Allowance
£3,000 Total Customer Saving

Mazda5
£1,000 Govt’ Allowance
£3,000 Mazda Allowance
£4,000 Total Customer Saving

Mazda6
£1,000 Govt’ Allowance
£2,000 Mazda Allowance
£3,000 Total Customer Saving

Mazda MX-5
£1,000 Govt’ Allowance
£2,000 Mazda Allowance
£3,000 Total Customer Saving

Mazda RX-8
£1,000 Govt’ Allowance
£5,000 Mazda Allowance
£6,000 Total Customer Saving

Mazda BT-50
£1,000 Govt’ Allowance
£5,000* Mazda Allowance
£6,000* Total Customer Saving
*On Intrepid model, smaller allowances on other BT-50s

To find out more about the Mazda range or to arrange a test-drive, please call Victoria Park Mazda on 029 20387461 or visit the showroom at Hadfield Road, Cardiff.

MAZDA MX-5 OFFERS FROM VICTORIA PARK MAZDA

The Mazda MX-5 2009 model range is now on sale at Victoria Park Mazda ready for the rush of open-top sports car fans. Thanks to enhanced chassis modifications, the Mazda MX-5 remains unrivalled both as a rewarding driver's car and an open-top roadster that can be used for everyday motoring all year round.

To celebrate the arrival of the new range, Victoria Park Mazda is offering 0 per cent APR* finance, with a minimum 50% deposit, or 3.9% APR** finance with no minimum deposit, on all upgraded models until 31st December 2009.

Alternatively, customers trading-in vehicles over 10 years old under the Government-backed vehicle scrappage scheme can benefit from a Mazda allowance of £2,000, in addition to the £1,000 Government contribution, on all new Mazda MX-5 models – bringing the entry-level price to just £13,345.

“The latest exterior, interior and technical upgrades to the MX-5 2009 model range ensure that the roadster will continue to offer fun-to-drive thrills,” explains Gareth Jones dealer principal at Victoria Park Mazda. “Both body styles carry-over the key features which have made the Mazda MX-5 the world’s best-selling sportscar.”

Fine‑tuning of the engines coupled to aerodynamic drag reduction have achieved significant reductions in CO2 emissions down to 167g/km for the 1.8i SE model, from 174g/km. Add to that improved fuel consumption – just 40.4mpg for the 1.8i SE, up from 38.7mpg – which contributes to reduced running costs over the outgoing model. In addition, the whole sports car ownership experience is supported by Mazda’s renowned reliability and durability.

For 2009, Mazda MX-5 customers have a choice of four powertrains, the 126ps 1.8i or higher-revving 160ps 2.0i with five-speed gearbox, the 160ps 2.0i with a smooth-shifting six‑speed manual gearbox and the new 160ps 2.0i ‘PowerShift’ six-speed sequential paddle‑shift transmission with full-auto mode, offering thrilling B-road cross-country drives and easy city driving and motorway cruising.

Prices for the Mazda MX-5 2009 soft-top range starts from £16,345 on-the-road. Every Mazda MX-5 now comes with alloy wheels, a leather steering wheel, gear knob and hand-brake, plus an MP3-compatible audio system with six speakers and steering wheel controls and a new auxiliary (AUX) input jack for MP3-player and iPod connection. The 2.0i SE models (from £17,345), feature DSC (dynamic stability control), TCS (traction control system), a Limited Slip Differential and side airbags.

The 2.0i Sport Tech models (priced from £19,695) are equipped with new 17-inch alloy wheels, uprated Bilstein dampers, a front suspension strut bracing bar, a six-speed manual transmission, front fog lamps and heated leather seats. New specification additions include climate control air conditioning, cruise control, a premium BOSE® audio system and Bluetooth® technology with voice recognition for hands-free telephoning.

The Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe range starts at £18,345 on-the-road and boasts the world’s fastest powered retractable hard top – up or top-down in just 12 seconds. The Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe 2009 model range now has several additional features including a new mesh-type front grille surrounded by a chrome-look edge trim, headlamps with chrome bezels and exterior door handles with a chrome-finish. The cabin is also better insulated with significant interior noise reductions.

Customers can purchase the Mazda MX-5 2009 model range from Victoria Park Mazda in a choice of six body colours – including two new colours (Aluminium Silver Metallic and Metropolitan Grey Mica). Carried over colours are Copper Red Mica and Stormy Blue Mica and solid colours Brilliant Black and True Red.

To find out more about the Mazda MX-5 2009 model range or to arrange a test drive, please call Victoria Park Mazda on 029 20387461 or visit the showroom on Hadfield Road.

*Retail sales only. Subject to availability at participating dealers only on vehicles registered by 31st December 2009. *0% finance available on Mazda Conditional Sale on the New Mazda MX-5 with minimum 50% deposit required. **3.9% finance available on the New Mazda MX-5 with no deposit required. Offer not available in conjunction with Government Scrappage Scheme. Finance subject to status. Terms and conditions apply. Applicants must be 18 or over. Guarantees/Indemnities may be required. Mazda Financial Services RH1 1SR

ALL-NEW MAZDA3 2.0 SPORT INTRODUCES ‘I-STOP’ TECHNOLOGY

On sale since 18 May at Victoria Park Mazda, the all-new Mazda3 range incorporates a distinctively fresh bodystyle that portrays a more powerful and emotional design, plus a richer expression and a more dynamic stance. Now the 20-model line up is completed by the arrival of two Mazda3 2.0 Sport models (hatchback and saloon) at the Hadfield Road-based showroom. These models, priced from £18,025 on-the-road, feature 151ps petrol engines and innovative ‘i-stop’ (Smart Idling Stop System) fuel-stretching technology.

The system automatically switches off the engine, on engaging neutral, whenever the car is stationary (or travelling below 3km/h / 2mph) for more than a few seconds and restarts the engine when the driver simply depresses the clutch. This delivers significant fuel-saving benefits for retail and fleet customers – without distracting from this model’s truly sporty driving experience.

“The all-new Mazda3 2.0 Sport features Mazda’s exciting ‘i-stop’ technology, delivering unique performance and cost savings to fleets, company car and individual private drivers,” comments Gareth Jones, dealer principal at Victoria Park Mazda. “In recent times, a 2.0 Sport petrol model may not have been the obvious first choice for a city-bound driver. However, the introduction of Mazda’s highly efficient i-stop technology means that this latest model may change all that. The new Mazda3 2.0 Sport with i-stop will be the right choice for city drivers who still want to experience power and performance from their out on the open roads.

“Indeed, the Mazda3 2.0 Sport with i-stop makes cost-effective performance driving accessible to a totally new group of drivers. For drivers who regularly experience stop-start motoring on urban roads, Mazda’s fuel-saving i-stop technology mated to this 2.0 engine is the sensible money-saving choice,” adds Mr Jones.

Fitted with Mazda’s i-stop technology, the new Mazda3 2.0 Sport delivers fuel economy savings of up to 16 percent (mpg, combined cycle) over the outgoing model, with CO2 emissions reduced by up to 19 percent. Drivers whose mileage is predominantly city-based can achieve even greater fuel-savings and the model’s official CO2 rating (159g/km) falls below the benchmark 160g/km capital allowance tax threshold, thereby making it an even better choice as a company car and enabling companies to maximise corporate tax savings following April’s changes to the system.

“The new Mazda3 2.0 i-stop falls into the 19 percent benefit-in-kind tax bracket in 2009/10 and with capital allowance benefits and first-class fuel economy the model represents the cost-effective choice for fleets and user-chooser company car drivers alike. With i-stop helping to ensure CO2 emissions are below 160g/km, it’s great news for fleet drivers,” concluded Mr Jones.

The all-new Mazda3 Sport achieves a rapid 0-62mph in 10.4 seconds and 41.5mpg on the combined cycle. The hatchback and saloon versions are priced from £18,025 and current offers include typical 0 percent* and 3.9 percent** APR finance packages available with variable deposits. Alternatively, customers can take advantage of a £2,000 discount available as part of the Government-backed scrappage scheme.

To find out more about the Mazda range or to arrange a test-drive, please call Victoria Park Mazda on 029 20387461 or visit the showroom at Hadfield Road, Cardiff.

Retail sales only. Subject to availability at participating dealers only on vehicles registered between 1 July 2009 and 30 September 2009. *0 percent finance available on Mazda Conditional Sale on all Mazda3 models with minimum 50 percent deposit required (this offer not available in conjunction with Government Scrappage Scheme). **3.9 percent finance available with PCP on all Mazda3 models. Finance subject to status. Terms and conditions apply. Applicants must be 18 or over. Guarantees/Indemnities may be required. Mazda Financial Services RH1 1SR.

VICTORIA PARK MAZDA CELEBRATES MILESTONE ANNIVERSARY WITH MAZDA

Victoria Park Mazda in Cardiff is celebrating its 25th anniversary as a Mazda dealer. Today, the dealership’s commitment to Mazda UK was applauded by senior Mazda staff who visited the showroom in Hadfield Road. Victoria Park Mazda was congratulated for its milestone anniversary and presented with a commemorative plaque by Floyd Timms, Mazda UK national sales manager.

“I am delighted to receive this award on behalf of Victoria Park Mazda,” commented Gareth Jones, dealer principal at Victoria Park Mazda. “We have been a Mazda dealer for 25 years and have seen the company grow into one of the UK’s most successful car manufacturers. Mazda is an exciting brand to work with and I’m not surprised it was named ‘Best Carmaker 2008’ by consumer organisation Which? I look forward to many more years as a Mazda dealer serving our local community.”

On presenting the plaque, Floyd Timms, Mazda UK national sales manager commented: “It gives me great pleasure to present this plaque to Victoria Park Mazda. The team here is fantastic and has consistently offered a high level of service to customers in Cardiff over the years. Victoria Park Mazda really is a great asset to Mazda UK.”

Mazda UK managing director Jeremy Thomson also congratulated the team on their anniversary, adding: “This plaque is in recognition of Victoria Park Mazda’s hard work and dedication over the years. Victoria Park Mazda’s loyalty and commitment is much appreciated by Mazda UK. I wish the team every success in the future.”

To find out more about the Mazda range or to arrange a test-drive, please call Victoria Park Mazda on (029) 20387461 or visit the showroom at Hadfield Road, Cardiff.

VICTORIA PARK MAZDA WELCOMES OLYMPIC CHAMPION

Victoria Park Mazda welcomed Olympic cycling champion Nicole Cooke back to Cardiff with a special reception at its Hadfield Road showroom, where Nicole expressed her gratitude for the dealership's support by meeting with customers and their children. The 25-year-old from Wick has just returned from the Beijing Olympics where she won the women's 126km road race.

"Nicole has been much in demand since her triumphant return from China so we were delighted she found the time to come here," said dealer principal Gareth Jones. "She's an amazing athlete and a wonderful ambassador for Wales and it was a great privilege to be able to help her get to training events by loaning her a Mazda3."

Victoria Park Mazda has been supporting Nicole Cooke for the past 12 months by providing her with Mazda cars to assist her in getting to UK training events and competitions. Nicole visited the dealership on Friday 29 August to thank staff for their support and to meet customers and their children. Nicole signed registration plates for guests at the reception and displayed her hard-won gold medal.

Nicole has won a string of major cycling tournaments since 1999. She took gold at the 2002 Commonwealth Games, achieved eight British Road Race Championship victories and celebrated two Tour de France wins. Nicole made her Olympic debut at Athens in 2004 where she finished fifth. Her world-beating skills were put to the test at the 2008 Olympics in both time trial and road race events. She finished first in the road race on 10 August with a time of 3:32:24 and 15^th in the women's individual time trials on 13 August, with a time of 37:14:25. Her road race victory was the first ever by a British cyclist.

"I really enjoyed driving the Mazda3 hatchback provided by Victoria Park Mazda, it's a fantastic car and spacious enough to fit my bike in," commented Nicole.

To find out more about the Mazda3 range or to arrange a test drive, please call Victoria Park Mazda on 029 20387461 or visit the Hadfield Road showroom in Cardiff.

MAZDA3 HELPS WELSH SPORTS STAR RIDE FOR GOLD

Victoria Park Mazda is supporting Welsh sports star and Olympic cyclist Nicole Cooke by providing her with a Mazda vehicle for the next year. The Hadfield Road car dealership in Cardiff has supplied a Mazda3 five-door hatchback to the hugely successful cyclist, who lives in Wick in the Vale of Glamorgan. Nicole will use the Mazda3 to travel to training sessions and UK competitions. Nicole has been selected to represent Great Britain at the Beijing Olympics in August.

"The Mazda3 is ideal for Nicole," says Gareth Jones, dealer principal at Victoria Park Mazda. "She travels a great deal and needs to be able to transport her bike, which she can easily fit into the spacious Mazda3 boot. We are very proud to support a Welsh sports star like Nicole who is not just a tremendous talent, but who is also very down to earth."

Nicole is delighted with her new car: "The Mazda3 is a real dream of a car. It's very nippy for getting around and perfect for transporting my bike... it's fantastic!"

Nicole, 24, will lead the British cycling squad of 10 women, which is in contention for a Gold Medal at the Beijing Olympics.

As a Junior, Nicole won multiple World titles and has since marked herself out as one of the sport's leading stars, the former world No 1 has had victories in the World Cup Series, the Tour de France Feminine and the Giro D'Italia plus a Gold Medal in the 2002 Commonwealth Games and the won the British Road Race Championship eight times.

"Nicole's team has a great chance to bring back a Gold Medal for Great Britain at the 2008 Olympics," enthuses Gareth Jones. "Everyone at Victoria Park Mazda wishes Nicole the best of luck at Beijing this August."

Around the world, the immensely popular Mazda3 model range retains its position as the brand's top-selling model globally, with more than one million delivered since launch.

The Mazda3 range includes the high power 2.0-litre 143ps diesel version and currently offers customers an 18-strong model line-up (13 hatchbacks and five saloons), with a choice of six powertrains and four equipment levels. On-the road prices for the range start at £11,430* (Mazda3 1.4 S hatchback) and rise to £17,930* for the range‑topping Mazda3 2.0D Sport.

To find out more about the complete Mazda range and to book a test-drive, contact Victoria Park Mazda on 029 2038 7461 or visit the Hadfield Road showroom in Cardiff.

*Following the budget announcement on 12 March 2008, changes have been made to Road Fund Licence rates which are not yet reflected in our published 'On the Road (OTR) prices. These changes took effect from 13 March 2008. Please speak to your local dealer for further details.