Mazda3 superhatch gets residual boost

The all-new Mazda3 MPS ‘super-hatch’ has been given a residual value boost to coincide with the range-topper going on sale in the UK this Autumn. The 2.3-litre petrol model, which generates 260ps and 380Nm of torque and has a limited top speed of 155mph, has received a generous valuation from used car experts at CAP.After driving the car, CAP’s price forecasters praised the model’s sporty styling and consequently upped its benchmark three-year/60,000-miles forecasted value by three percentage points.A ‘blind’ prediction of the car’s worth saw CAP give the model, which has a P11D list price of £21,500 OTR, an initial valuation in September of £6,425 (30 per cent) at the benchmark period. However, now the residual value has been increased by £450 to £6,875 (2 per cent). That means that against the previous Mazda3 MPS the new model will retain an additional £750 of its value.Jeff Knight, forecast manager at CAP, said: “The all-new Mazda3 MPS looks the part. It has the right styling cues and a more aggressive stance, which are important on a vehicle in the performance car bracket.  The previous Mazda3 MPS always had performance, but it lacked the necessary visual appeal. Mazda has addressed that issue with the new model. We agree with Mazda that the new car is a significant step forward.”After CAP’s vehicle valuation experts drove the car, Mr Knight said: “We initially valued the model on its track record in the sector. However, after driving the car we have re-evaluated its secondhand value because we believe the improved sportiness will increase awareness of the Mazda Performance Series (MPS) brand and therefore the car’s appeal. It is definitely a vehicle that buyers looking for sports car performance should consider.”Peter Allibon, Mazda’s fleet and remarketing director, said: “We are delighted that CAP has significantly uplifted its residual value forecast for the all-new Mazda3 MPS. Our design team put a huge effort into giving the car a more purposeful and sporty appearance and we believe the car will have significant appeal.”The newly introduced flagship to the Mazda3 range is the marque’s highest performance hatchback model: “It will give fleet decision-makers, company and private car drivers the opportunity to choose a high-performance, more than credible alternative to the hot hatch offerings from other marques,” Allibon said.“The new bonnet air-intake, new-style 18-inch alloy wheels and larger rear spoiler create a muscular, athletic look. Delivering sensationally spirited performance, the all new Mazda3 MPS puts the heat back into the hot-hatch sector with ‘stand out’ looks that put rivals in the shade and it boasts exquisite handling and incredible dynamics.”The all-new Mazda3 MPS completes the zero to 62mph spring in 6.1 seconds, returns 29.4mpg on the combined fuel cycle and has a CO2 emissions figure of 224 g/km. Reduced emissions means the new model qualifies for a lower annual Road Fund Licence of £215.Complementing the sporty styling cues of the exterior is an impressive array of practical features adding a masculine feel to the interior. The new cockpit meters and displays, such as the LCD turbo boost gauge and multi-information display (MID), combined with the comfort of half leather semi-bucket sport seats featuring red stitching add to the truly unique driving experience of the all-new Mazda3 MPS. Technology such as Bluetooth® phone and MP3 player connectivity, surround-sound BOSE® premium audio system with 10 speakers, smart keyless entry and push button start add to the quality cockpit environment.The all-new Mazda3 MPS also possesses one of the segment’s most comprehensive safety packages with new active safety technology as standard; Electronic Brake Assist (EBA), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) and Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). New ‘adaptive’ bi-xenon headlights that turn to illuminate curves ahead and a Rear Vehicle Monitoring system (RVM) are also standard therefore minimising the hazards of everyday driving.

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