Scottish Car of the Year's 'Best Family Car'
14 November 2008
Arnold Clark and Machargs Mazda are expecting a rise in Mazda6 sales after it was named ‘Best Family Car' in the Scottish Car of the Year Awards 2008. The stylish vehicle is already so popular that it has been credited with helping Mazda double its share of the retail market in Scotland to almost five per cent. Mazda took more than four per cent of the overall Scottish market in September, making it the 10th best-selling brand north of the border, ahead of Nissan and only just behind Audi and BMW.
"It's a remarkable performance in a tough market," says Andrew Marshall, Mazda franchise manager. "The jump up the sales charts has definitely been helped by strong sales of the new Mazda6. It's no surprise the Mazda6 is such a hit with both motorists and automotive experts - it is the most stylish car in its class and its performance, practicality and economy figures are amongst the best available."
Now in its 11th year, the Scottish Car of the Year is judged by members of the Association of Scottish Motoring Writers (ASMW). More than 50 new models were in contention for a 2008 accolade, awarded across eight categories. Mazda6 impressed the ASMW judges, with the panel selecting it above family car rivals Honda Accord, Mitsubishi Lancer, Citroen C5, Kia Pro'ceed, Ford Focus, Dodge Avenger and Peugeot 308.
Bill Caven, President of the Association of Scottish Motoring Writers, said: "The family car sector has come on leaps and bounds in recent years. The quality of the vehicles available has risen dramatically as the manufacturers strive to offer something special. All of which is good news for those families seeking a solid allround transporter.
"Rarely has a car ticked all the right boxes when it comes to quality, refinement, and reliability. Not only does it look rather spectacular but it also performs to the same high standard of cars costing considerably more." Mazda UK managing director Jeremy Thomson added: "We are truly delighted the Mazda6 has been named Scottish Car of the Year's ‘Best Family Car'. This award is further confirmation that the all-new Mazda6 continues to attract family buyers thanks to its people and luggage carrying abilities and very competitive CO2 emissions levels, ideal for family motoring needs."
The Mazda6 is one of the Japanese marque's best-selling models, boasting a comprehensive range of 25 derivatives, including 10 diesels and nine estates, five equipment levels, four engine choices and a broad £7,020 price span. The range is priced from £15,110 on-the-road for the Mazda6 1.8 5dr S model up to £22,130 for the 2.0 Estate Sports Luxury model.
Until 31 December 2008, Mazda is offering the new Mazda Service Plan (valid for the first three annual services), free of charge to customers who purchase a Mazda6. Customers can take also advantage of two typical 6.9 per cent APR* finance offers on all models. Buyers who order a new Mazda6 Sport or SL model can specify a ‘Smart Nav' (worth £700 as a Mazda accessory) free of charge until 31 December 2008.
