New 'Specialist' Dealer Network to Market All-New Mazda3 MPS

DARTFORD, UNITED KINGDOM – September 17, 2009: To celebrate the introduction of the all-new, high performance Mazda3 MPS on 1 October, Mazda is establishing a select nationwide network of dealers to operate its new ‘Mazda3 MPS Specialist Dealer Programme’.

This new specialist approach to sales of the Mazda3 MPS is designed to provide prospective customers with an enhanced, more performance-orientated customer experience. Every ‘Specialist’ dealer will have a Mazda3 MPS demonstrator, two dedicated MPS sales staff, an MPS-branded area of the showroom, access to a priority new car ordering system and will be running frequent Mazda3 MPS customer events.

“The all-new Mazda3 MPS is our fastest-ever hatchback, delivering sensational performance, with 0-to-62 mph taking just 6.1 seconds. This car delivers phenomenal levels of grip, superb steering accuracy and unrivalled ‘fun-to-drive’ motoring,” comments Mark Cameron, Sales & Marketing Director, Mazda UK.

“We believe a more specialised approach is required to successfully market this amazing car and to exceed the expectations of both new and existing Mazda3 MPS customers. Our new ‘Mazda3 MPS Specialist Programme’ is creating a dealer network that will guarantee customers a premium retail experience dedicated to their particular model of choice,” adds Cameron.

With 89 ‘Mazda3 MPS Specialist’ dealers across the UK, from Inverness to Plymouth and from Aberystwyth to Norwich, the new programme will raise Mazda’s renowned customer service to an even higher level.

Back in July, Mazda was ranked ‘top’ for the Automotive Sector in the latest UK Customer Satisfaction Index, published by the Institute of Customer Service after questioning 25,000 adults. After claiming top place for the Automotive Sector, Mazda was described as ‘best at meeting customers’ needs’ and was awarded a score of 86 – 10 points above the sector average and three points clear of its nearest competitor – to comfortably out-perform all other prestigious and popular automotive brands.

The Top 10 priorities used by the ICS to assess company performance were: overall quality of product or service, being treated as a valued customer, speed of service, friendliness of staff, handling of problems, handling of enquiries, competence of staff, ease of doing business, being kept informed, and helpfulness of staff.

The all-new Mazda3 MPS goes on sale from 1 October, priced at £21,500 (on-the-road). Its insurance group is unchanged from the previous model (17E), but with emissions reduced to 224 g/km (down 3 percent) the new model qualifies for a lower (Band K) Road Fund License of £215 – a £190 annual saving over the outgoing model.