Mazda is to extend its Motability programme
until the end of 2011 and expand the scheme to include deals on the
Mazda3 and Mazda MX-5.

Having found the small, five-door Mazda2
automatic especially popular on the scheme, the Japanese
manufacturer will also continue to make the model available with no
advance payment.

The programme, run by the independent charity
Motability, offers those on the higher rate of the Disability
Living Allowance an allowance of around £50 a week that can be
exchanged for one of a range of over 300 cars. Those that wish to
may choose to make an advance payment, of an average £550, to
purchase alternatives offered through manufacturer’s schemes.

Both the Mazda3 1.6 TS hatchback and the MX-5
1.8i SE roadster will be made available for an advance payment of
£499, while the 1.8i SE Air Con model is available for £849 in
advance.

Motability said they were pleased with Mazda’s
offers. “We’re always looking for positive ways to work with
manufacturers,” said Delia Ray, head of marketing, Motability
Operations.

With more than 700 Mazda3 Motability contracts
up for renewal in the last three months of this year, Steve
Jelliss, Mazda fleet and remarketing director, said the deals would
give those on the scheme a reason to stay with Mazda while giving
their dealers “a much stronger proposition”. Jelliss said he
expected the Mazda3 to be a popular choice for returning customers
while the Mazda2 might find favour with new customers.

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All Mazda 151 dealers will participate in the
deal, 146 of which already having done business through the
Motability scheme this year, and the manufacturer said it was keen
to spread the range of models available.

“The Mazda2 has been the strongest, and we’ve
consolidated our position,” said Jellis. “We expect a strong
performance while working the Mazda3 in to the frame.

“The Mazda MX-5 has in the past been a popular choice. The new
rate will make it more appealing to a lot of people.”

richard.brown@vrlfinancialnews.com