Mazda's soaraway success in Scotland

Mazda’s soaraway success in Scotland hit new peaks in January with a further 22.4 per cent increase in sales and its highest-ever monthly market share north of the border.

A total of 509 vehicles were sold during the month, 22.4 per cent higher than January two years ago and 93 more vehicles than the same month last year.

Mazda’s market share was also up 1.1 per cent over January 2006, to a record 4.5 per cent, in a market which was down five per cent overall

Gordon Burt, business manager for Scotland, confirmed Mazda’s highest ever monthly market share in the region. “This gives us an excellent platform for building for the March market,” he said

Sales success was across the board of models with Mazda3 and Mazda6 the top sellers.

Mr Burt added: “Mazda’s 17-strong dealer network includes three new dealers and we have already taken lots of orders for March so it will hopefully be another good month.

“In the last year we have been consistently breaking records and we are optimistic that the new product scheduled for later in the year will maintain this momentum and increase growth.”

With the B-segment in Scotland accounting for 20-25 per cent of sales, the arrival of the new Mazda2 towards the end of this year is expected to further fuel the company’s sales growth.

Other new models taking to Scottish roads this year include the new Mazda CX-7 Crossover SUV vehicle. Marketing director for Mazda UK Mark Cameron commented: "The Mazda CX-7 will be good for the brand because it is different to other SUVs.

"It is more heavily oriented towards a sports car in its styling while retaining the command driving position, presence and stature of an SUV."