Mazda Sales Success

The six-month total compares to just 6,565 for the same period last year, a 100% increase. Top performers in the Mazda range have been the Mazda MX-5, Mazda 323, Mazda 626, Mazda Premacy and the Mazda Demio, with the Mazda MX-5 on course to an all-time sales record.

With the recent launch of the Mazda6, a car that has been widely acclaimed as the class leader in the family car segment, Mazda’s future in the UK car market seems secure and the year forecast of 29,500 a target that is achievable. The Mazda6 went on sale on 1 July in four and five-door petrol versions; the body style line-up will be complete in September when the estate goes on sale along with two common-rail diesel engines. A 2.3-litre all-wheel drive estate, the Mazda Sport4, joins the range in November.

Sales success this year has been due to a focused and re-motivated dealer network driven by an energised Mazda Motors UK management team, increased availability of all models, price and specification realignment to the range and a fresh marketing programme with significant investment designed to raise the profile and awareness of Mazda.

With the future product promised from Mazda with its reputation for engineering excellence, reliability, innovation and craftsmanship, sales look sure to continue increasing in the UK. One of the most exciting vehicles to come from Mazda will be the rotary powered Mazda RX-8, due in the UK next year.

"The sales success we have seen for the first half of 2002 shows that the actions we have put in place are justified, the dealers are highly motivated and people are putting Mazda back on their shortlist for a car purchase. When they consider the competitive options in terms of price, specification and quality Mazda is proving a very attractive proposition," said Phil Waring, Dealer Operations Director. "We are confident of achieving our 2002 target of 29,500 sales this year and fully recognise the potential and opportunities for further growth in the future. With a motivated dealer network and a host of new and exciting cars coming over the next three years we believe the future for Mazda in the UK is very bright."