Waters Mazda Boosts Driving School Programme

Waters Mazda is now offering the all-new Mazda3 as part of its driving school programme for the first time, in addition to giving driving instructors access to low-rate finance. The Lea Valley Road-based car retailer initially launched into the driving instructor market with the Mazda2 last year, but has now given it a major boost with the availability of the Mazda3 as part of the new improved programme, which will run until 31 December 2009.

Now all Mazda2 and all-new Mazda3 models, with the exception of limited edition cars, are available at Waters Mazda under the programme, which is specifically aimed at the 17,000 qualified driving instructors who are self-employed or work for small driving schools.

“Anecdotal evidence suggests that many newly qualified drivers go on to purchase either a new or second-hand car similar to the one in which they had driving lessons,” says Steve Bullimore dealer principal for Waters Mazda. “As a result, by launching an improved driving schools programme, we believe we will secure additional new and used car sales.”

The programme includes free-of-charge supply and fitment of He-Man dual controls (He-Man is the UK’s leading supplier of dual controls), header board including graphics, metallic paint and, for the first time, access to low rate finance on both Mazda2 and all-new Mazda3 models.

In addition, on all-new Mazda3, a GPS secondary speedometer is fitted free of charge to the passenger side dashboard as the ‘tunnel’ design of the driver’s speedometer makes it difficult for the driving instructor to view.

“We have seen solid demand for Mazda2 from driving schools since we launched the programme,” continues Bullimore. “However, it is also clear that some instructors want a larger car that is used both to instruct pupils and as their ‘main’ family vehicle. That is why we have added all-new Mazda3 to the programme.”

Around 1.4 million people take their driving test in the UK each year with a pass rate of about 42%, according to the Driving Standards Agency.

Many of the approximate 600,000 people who pass their driving test annually will be looking to buy a car. There is significant anecdotal evidence that many newly qualified drivers buy a derivative of the car they took their lessons in because familiarity breeds confidence.

“It makes sense for Waters Mazda to offer a cost-effective driving school car programme to instructors as not only will they benefit but the move could result in a significant new business opportunity for us,” adds Bullimore.

Mazda2 on the road prices start at £9,295 for the 1.3 3dr TS with air conditioning and Mazda3 prices start at £13,500 for the 1.6 5dr S.


To find out more about any of the Mazda range, or to arrange a test drive, call in to our Chingford showroom, e-mail us or call us on 0845 871 7101.

Peugeot 5008 Pricing Announced!

Range starts at £17,395 with three trim levels – Active, Sport and Exclusive

The new 5008 Compact MPV 7-seater brings new levels of quality, versatility and innovation to the sector, and goes on sale in January 2010 with prices starting from £17,395.

There are three trim levels for 5008 – Active, Sport and Exclusive - that all feature the characteristic Multiflex interior with seven seats, the second row of which folds flat and the third row can be hidden below the floor. This clever folding seat configuration makes it possible to hold up to 578 litres capacity in the boot space that can be extended to 2,104 when the seats are folded. ESP (Electronic Stability Programme), automatic electric parking brake with Hill Assist, Energy Saver tyres and air conditioning are all standard features on 5008.

5008 Sport models are equipped with 16” alloy wheels, the Aluminium pack (trim for front grille, front fog lights and chrome detailing), cruise control with speed limiter, lighting pack with removable torch, Storage pack (under seat and footwell storage), colour coded exterior and front fog lights.

The 5008 Exclusive model features as standard the Cielo panoramic glass roof, 17” alloy wheels, the Visibility pack (automatic headlamps and wipers), Rear Vision pack (electric folding mirrors, electrochrome interior mirror), Head Up display, Distance Alert, rear parking aid, USB and Bluetooth handsfree equipment and climate control air conditioning.

The 5008 will go on sale in January 2010, to find out more call us at either of our branches: Chingford 0845 871 5107 or Hatfield 0845 871 5104, e-mail us or visit either of our showrooms. In the mean-time, just take a look at what the UK Press have had to say:

The Sunday Times – 11th October 2009
“This new 5008, then, is a brilliant family car that can go head to head with the best on the market, and it’s a storming return to form for the maker. Welcome back, Peugeot.”

Auto Express – 14th October 2009
“Peugeot is reinventing itself as one of the most exciting brands on the market … 5008 is a surprise. Mature styling, a compliant ride and sweet handling are matched by a punchy yet frugal range of powerplants.”

Independent on Sunday – 18th October 2009
“A 5008 will generate few complaints from those not driving it, and unexpected pleasure for the one who is.”

The Daily Telegraph – 24th October 2009
Brilliant packaging makes 5008 a versatile proposition “Thanks to the brilliant packaging of the vehicle, even adults who are not double-jointed acrobats can get into the third row of seats without chiropractic help to get them out again.”
Verdict: Looks good … and spacious interior has a touch of quality

What Car? – November 2009
“The 5008 is a great family car with pretty much all the practicality and refinement you could wish for.”

The Sun – 13th November 2009
“What really impressed me was the sheer quality of the interior that was on par with the top German brands. Yes, that good.”

Autocar.co.uk – 8th October 2009
“It seems clear – not least from the new 5008 slogan “Enjoyed by families, loved by drivers” – that Peugeot is making efforts to improve both the dynamics and refinement of its cars.
Best of all, this pleasing new 5008 has a spark about it that almost pushes undoubted ability towards desirability, an elusive quality that the company needs to nurture.”

Burntwood Post, Staffs – 29th October 2009
“Driving the 5008 is a pleasure and it is clearly one of the best handling cars in its class. It clings well to curves giving a composed and comfortable ride, even on rutted roads.
“Peugeot upped their game with 3008, the 5008 is just as good. The competition should be worried.”

Birmingham Post – 30th October 2009
“Get behind the wheel of the new seven-seater Peugeot 5008 Exclusive and you feel as you are sitting in the cockpit of an executive jet. The beautifully designed ‘cockpit’ – the best I have seen yet in an MPV.”

Evening Chronicle – 30th October 2009
“There is a quality air about every aspect of this new breed of French car which puts it head and shoulders above previous models.”

Norwich Evening News – 30th October 2009
“Peugeot’s famous and uniquely supple ride is back, while the driving position strikes a comfortable balance between lofty SUV and easy-to-access family runabout.”

Business Car – 3rd November 2009
“We’re giving victory to the 5008. Its extra power, better residual values and all-round appeal combine to outpoint its rival.”

Beat the VAT increase!

Waters AutoPlanet is inviting customers to take advantage of the savings offered by the current VAT rate of 15% before the Government VAT increase on 1st January 2010.

Plus, if you're the owner of a qualifying vehicle you could also benefit from the Government-backed scrappage scheme for 10-year old cars.

It's true to say that there's never been a better time to buy your next new car, after all, who wouldn't like to take advantage of an extra 2.5% discount as well as a £2,000 scrappage allowance!

“Demand for cars has been even greater than anticipated, and with the VAT rate due to be increased in January and the Government scrappage scheme rapidly running out we're expecting a further boost in demand as customers seek to take advantage of these savings,” enthuses Brett Kavanagh, Marketing Manager at Waters AutoPlanet.

With savings to be made right across the Kia, Mazda, Peugeot and Renault ranges and fantastic finance offers available as well buying a car is more affordable than ever.

“Models from all our ranges of vehicles are attracting interest in the scrappage scheme, bringing a new car into range for an increasing number of motorists,” commented Brett. “It's about the affordability of the monthly payment and our low finance rates that make this possible for even more customers.”

To find out more about how you can beat the VAT increase or take advantage of the Government scrappage scheme, please call in to any of our showrooms, e-mail us or call us.

Get special treatment from Waters Kia

Waters Kia has introduced a whole host of special editions this month to help keep the winter blues at bay. The best-selling Picanto city car and Rio supermini have both had a range-topping Graphite model added in stunning Titanium Silver and the Soul range has introduced a new design to its 'Originals' collection.


Many people say the best things come in small packages and the new 1.1 Picanto Graphite is no exception. The extensive specification includes 14-inch alloy wheels, remote central locking, front electric windows, leather steering wheel, rear spoiler, silver centre fascia and CD audio with iPod compatibility as standard. For driver comfort, Graphite adds driver's seat height adjust, tilt adjustable steering and air conditioning. And for the wallet, all this comes for just £8,495 including free metallic titanium silver paintwork.


The Rio supermini, has also received the Graphite makeover. Integrated mirror indicators, 15-inch alloy wheels, black bezel headlights and front fogs all enhance Rio from the outside while standard features such as air-conditioning, alloy pedals, a metallic centre fascia, leather steering wheel and gear knob makes what's on the inside count too. Rio Graphite is available in 1.4 petrol and 1.5 CRDi engines for just £9,395 and £10,395 respectively.

Tempting buyers with the new Tempest

Waters Kia launched the funky new Soul earlier this year to include a range of 'Originals' - limited edition versions of the car - and with the change in season comes a change to the Originals collection.

The beginning of the month saw the launch of the all-new 'Tempest' Original at Waters Kia, which replaces the outgoing 'Samba' model. The Tempest features standard metallic paintwork in Titanium Silver with black high-gloss bumper inserts and door mirrors, and is fitted with unique black 18-inch alloy wheels. Completing the look inside is the modern 'Soul-Shine' black seat trim with metallic centre fascia and chrome accents on the dashboard and instrument clusters.
Other key features include Kia's Advanced Reversing Camera system with Electrochromic Rearview Mirror, as available on its sister model Shaker, and an upgraded audio system which features a dash-top centre speaker, rear sub-woofer and external amplifier.

Starting from just £12,845, Tempest is available in 1.6-litre petrol and diesel engines with a four-speed automatic transmission available on the latter - the first time automatic has been offered on any Original model.

Colour availability has been revised on the Soul '2' mid-grade. With the deletion of Samba from the line-up, the vivid Tornado Red paintwork is now made available on all '2' models, while the vibrant metallic Cocktail Orange is no longer offered. This quickly changing line-up ensures that all Waters Kia Soul customers feel special knowing theirs is one of a limited number.

To take a test drive or to find out more, head over to Waters Kia, e-mail us or give us a call at Chingford on 0845 871 7014 or at St Albans on 0845 871 5085.

Chingford’s toddlers make a big difference with the Big Toddle at Waters Kia!

Staff members from Waters Kia Chingford are showing their commitment to changing the lives of disadvantaged children by organising a Barnardo's Big Toddle at their dealership in Chingford. Parents and their toddlers in the area are invited to join a short sponsored walk on 21st November to help make a big difference to the futures of other little children.

Emma Jones, who is encouraging Chingford’s children to Toddle, says: “We’re absolutely delighted to be involved in a Big Toddle! We’re told that this is the first time a Toddle is happening at a car dealership so we’re hoping to really set a precedent in both the number of toddlers taking part and the amount of money we all raise.”

To join the Barnardo's Big Toddle, you can register here or call Waters Kia Chingford.

The money raised will help fund Barnardo’s ‘Early Years’ work with disadvantaged and vulnerable under 5s in local projects throughout the UK. This includes services for children with disabilities, young carers, and mums and dads who need support to care for their children.

Now in its thirteenth year, the Big Toddle continues to be the UK’s biggest sponsored event for under 5s! Nearly half a million children registered for the Barnardo's Big Toddle 2008, and the children’s charity is hoping even more will sign up this year, helping to raise vital funds for Barnardo’s.

Waters Kia St Albans will also be holding their own Big Toddle on Saturday 5th December, to register for this event please click here.