Three models for new Sakata special edition range

Mazda is introducing a sporty range of three of the popular Sakata special edition models. The Sakata special edition was first introduced in 2004 and proved tremendously popular, this new special edition brings more value and more specification at an affordable price.

For 2006, the Sakata range is based on five-door hatchback versions of the entry-level Mazda2 Antares, and S models of Mazda3 and Mazda6 (in both petrol and diesel versions). Customers are offered a selection of free metallic or mica exterior paint, a stylish aerodynamic body coloured rear spoiler, alloy wheels and air-conditioning. On-the-road prices range from £8,995 to £14,995.

"The reaction to the earlier Mazda6 Sakata and Mazda3 Sakata models was extremely positive," commented Mark Cameron, marketing director for Mazda Motors UK. "Sakata special edition models combine the practicality and comfort of the donor vehicle with some excellent additional features, adding up to a great value package.

"There was a time when maximum driving pleasure came with a price tag to match. Not any more. Britain’s favourite sports car brand brings customers the sporty Mazda Sakata range. Offering superb driving dynamics, the Sakata range also breaks the boundaries of affordability. For 2006 we decided to offer customers a wider range of Sakata models, simultaneously."

The Mazda2 Sakata is powered by a 1.4-litre 80ps petrol engine and brings customers the additional benefits of metallic paint, rear spoiler, 15-inch alloy wheels and an exterior finished in Black Metallic. Priced at £8,995, this model gives a saving of over £1,000 compared to a similarly equipped regular Antares model with optional extras.

Customers in search of more performance and more space can choose the Mazda3 1.6 5dr Sakata. This model’s 1.6-litre petrol engine delivers a lively 105ps and specification includes a free paint upgrade (Black Mica or Unique Strato Blue Metallic), rear spoiler and manual air-conditioning. With an on-the-road price of £11,745, the customer benefits from over £1,200 of additional specification and discounted price versus the donor model.

The Mazda6 1.8 Sakata hatchback is fitted with Mazda’s responsive MZR 1.8-litre 120ps petrol engine. Sakata benefits feature free paint upgrade (Black Mica or Unique Strato Blue Metallic) and a body-coloured rear spoiler amounting to over £900 of customer benefit and giving an on-the-road price of £13,895.

For diesel enthusiasts, the Mazda6 2.0D Sakata hatchback is priced at £14,995. This edition shares the same features as the Mazda6 1.8 Sakata petrol model.

All three models in the Sakata range are equipped with a CD player, manual air-conditioning, electric front windows (and electric rear windows in both Mazda6 models), remote central locking, driver and front passenger airbags, alarm and immobiliser (Mazda3 and Mazda6 feature Thatcham Category 1 approved alarms and immobilisers) and Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) backed by Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Emergency Brake Assist (EBA) for shorter stopping distances and safer braking control.