All-new Mazda3 2.0 Sport Introduces ‘i-stop’ Technology

On sale since 18 May at Waters AutoPlanet, 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 Chingford 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 Steve Bullimore, dealer principal at Waters 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 Bullimore.

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 Bullimore.

The all-new Mazda3 2.0 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 Mazda3 or to arrange a test-drive, please call Waters Mazda on 0845 871 7101, e-mail us or visit the showroom at Lea Valley Road, Chingford.

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.

Waters AutoPlanet Boosts Scrappage Scheme

Waters AutoPlanet is retaining its popular range of hugely competitive low rate finance deals for motorists looking to take advantage of the new scrappage scheme. While many manufacturers and dealers have withdrawn their most competitive rates, Waters AutoPlanet is keeping its collection of low rate* finance deals – meaning even more added value for motorists changing their ‘old’ model for a new Kia, Mazda, Peugeot or Renault.

The scrappage scheme started on 18th May and will run until 28 February 2010 or until the £300 million Government funding has been used. Under the terms of the programme, a £2,000 discount against the purchase price of a new car can be obtained – £1,000 each from the Government and manufacturer – when the owner scraps a vehicle over 10 years old.

“Our collection of low finance deals brings a new car within reach for an increasing number of motorists,” highlights Brett Kavanagh, Marketing Manager at Waters AutoPlanet. “It’s about the affordability of the monthly payments and our low finance rates make it possible for our customers to purchase a new car.”

“But at Waters AutoPlanet we don't think that this goes far enough. So we've launched our own scheme that will allow consumers to claim a £2,000 discount against selected used cars for part exchanging their current vehicle. The only rules to our 'Minimum £2,000 Part Exchange' scheme are that the vehicle to be part exchanged is taxed and has a valid current MOT. So with the assistance of these two schemes and the availability of low cost finance, we are giving consumers even more reasons to buy a new or used car at Waters AutoPlanet.”

With a full suite of finance offers in place it means consumers can tailor their package to suit their own requirements.

To find out more about either of these schemes please call in to or phone any of our branches, or click on one of the links below to e-mail us:

New Car Scrappage Scheme

Used Car 'Minimum £2,000 Part Exchange' Scheme

*Finance subject to status. Applicants must be 18 or over. Guarantees/Indemnities may be required.