So, you’re tootling along at 19mph because you’re in a 20mph zone or in slow-moving traffic, and you take your eyes off the road for a split second. How to you avoid bumping into the car in front?

Well, if you are in a Mazda – let’s just say the all-new Mazda CX-5 for arguments sake because it has something new fitted as standard – then the car itself will slam on the brakes. The fact that you’ll go fling into the steering wheel or squash those delicate features of yours all across he windscreen is neither here nor there. You’ve avoided a frontal collision.

Well done car!

And all because Mazda have fitted a new advanced safety technology called (cue trumpet fanfare) ‘Smart City Brake Support’ (SCBS) fitted as standard on all Mazda CX-5 compact crossover SUV models on sale this spring.

What it does is use a laser sensor fitted at the front of the car, actually at the top of the windscreen, to detect an obstacle in front, and if the driver fails to react, it will; by slamming the brakes on and reducing engine output at the same time. This helps avoid collisions both front and back (of the car in front), which are the most common accidents.

When driving at speeds between 2.5 and 19mph, the laser monitors the gap and the closing speed.  If it thinks a collision is likely, and there seems to be no avoidance measures from the driver, it pre-pressures the braking system, ready for action. But if no action, STOP!

Not too sure how it works with pedestrian and cars pulling out but seems to be good. My only worry is that it operates completely in accordance with what it is programmed to do, and that means ANY obstacle it’s “anchors on!” You may look like a learner on a first lesson.

The car hopping along like a kangaroo in front of you in traffic is a Mazda.

There used to be a saying: “Get ahead, Get a hat.” Maybe it was just an advertising slogan?

But add to that a new saying. “Get ahead. Get a Venture.” Because Mazda have just produced a special new edition of their iconic MX-5 just in time for spring – the MX-5 Venture Edition – and boy, does it look good or what?

Whether you’re parading round in the Soft-top or the Roadster Coupe, you are going to turn heads and attract wolf-whistles from admiring passers-by in this latest special edition of, so it is claimed, the world’s most popular open top sports car that’s been voted ‘Best Roadster’ by Auto Express magazine for six years in a row.

With a front-engined, rear-wheel drive chassis that delivers perfectly balanced handling and pure driving exhilaration, the MX-5 features have been upgraded to what can only be described as ‘luxurious specification’; there’s the advanced technology to look forward to, premium interior trim and a range exterior colours exclusive to the Mazda MX-5 Venture Edition that are to die for. (Whoops! Slipped into Gok Wan-isms for a second there! Sorry)

Let’s look a bit closer at this little beauty then, shall we?

Basing the style on both the Mazda MX-5 SE and Sport Tech models, the Venture has had a good start in life, and being available as a 1.8 MZR Soft-top (SE) and a 2.0 MZR Roadster Coupe (Sport Tech) can’t really harm it – in fact it just enhances its beauty and desirability. And don’t worry about the fickle British weather: it boasts the world’s fastest powered retractable hard top which is up or down in just 12 seconds.

The ‘stand out’ specification features light gun metal 17-inch alloy wheels, front fog lights, chrome front grille, piano black fashion bars and, hold your breath, special ‘Venture Edition’ badging.

And relax.

Inside, we find stylish Havana Brown heated leather seats, leather steering wheel, climate control air-conditioning, piano black dashboard accents, alloy pedals, cruise control (a first on 1.8 models) and, for the first time on MX-5, a satellite navigation system as part of the whole package.

And not just any old sat nav either. Supplied by Sanyo TomTom, there’s a fully integrated 5.8-inch touch screen monitor, 4GB SD card based map (with full driving details of 45 countries), live services, iPod and Bluetooth® connectivity and complete multi-media functionality.

It’s like you’ll never have to go home again. (But if you did, the satellite system will get you there from anywhere.)

Of course, you want to look good, so The Mazda MX-5 Venture will be available in three colours: Metropolitan Grey Mica (of course) and two exclusive colours to this MX-5 special edition – Radiant Ebony Mica and Crystal White Pearlescent – free of charge.

And you’ll want to feel special. So, in this, you will, because it really is a real special edition.  Only 250 Venture Edition Soft-tops and 550 Venture Edition Roadster Coupe will be available in the UK.

And at prices of £18,995 and £22,285 (OTR), you can actually look good without splashing out too much of that hard-earned cash. You may even actually be able to afford to cruise around some decent streets in it!

What does the Sales Director of Mazda Uk say about it? No surprises that he is gushing with excitement, if a little verbose: “Special Edition models of the MX-5 have always enjoyed incredible popularity in Britain and now the Venture Edition offers a unique combination of a premium cabin feel, sophisticated exterior and advanced technology, in a sportscar that remains unrivalled as an exhilarating drive that can also be used everyday,” comments Peter Allibon. “Together with their durability, enviable reliability and our current low-rate finance offer, the MX-5 Venture Edition is a thoroughly modern sportscar that people can buy with their heart and their head.”

And, until  31 March 2012, Mazda dealers are currently offering MX-5 buyers three finance packages with 0%, 3.9% and 6.9% APR finance, 0%-to-50% minimum deposit and up to 36 months repayment.

Here’s the fine print: Offers are for retail sales only on vehicles registered until 31 March 2012.  Finance subject to status.  Terms and conditions apply.  Applicants must be 18 or over.  Guarantees/Indemnities may be required.  Mazda Financial Services RH1 1SR.

Off you go then! Race you there!

If you’re looking for an exceptionally good looking vehicle with fantastic savings, then look no further as the Mazda 6 Estate! 

The new Mazda 6 Estate not only places itself above the rest in its class but also offers exceptionally low c02 output, good fuel economy as well as fantastic reliability.

The performance coming from the 2.0-litre engine is absolutely fantastic, producing a whopping 153 bhp. With the option of a more powerful 2.5-litre petrol or 2.2-litre diesel to choose from, the Mazda 6 Estate offers a great deal of selection for a very reasonable price.

The Japanese manufacture claims that they’ve made 400 changes to this year’s model, many of which are seen throughout the cars exterior. It has chrome roof rails as well as a very stylish hatch. This new model also has different bumper than previous years, giving it a very futuristic look.

Moving to the changes on the inside, the interior of the car has had quite a few new additions. It looks stylish but also functional, making this vehicle a drivers dream. Furthermore, the inside is quiet, with only minor wind noise to pollute your drive. The small changes that Mazda was speaking about can also be found on all the small details, from the cup holders to the door inlays.

In terms of handling this car offers an exceptionally smooth and agile drive. Everything in his car is made to be precise, giving the impression that you’re driving a German estate. The gearshift is very much capable of dealing with anything you throw at it, challenging you to push it further.

One of the selling features of the car are its seats. Certainly not the standard you’d find in your ordinary vehicle, these fold flat and give the Mazda a huge amount of inside space to store anything your heart could desire. By simply pulling the KaraKuri lever the seats lower and drop into their hidden place.

You can now save up to £26 a month when you lease selected Mazda 6 Estate models with Nationwide Vehicle Contracts. Prices now start from as little as £229.95 + VAT a month for Mazda 6 Estate 2.2D 163 TS with selected models in stock for quick delivery.

• Cruise Control
• CD/Radio with MP3 Compatability
• Dual Zone Climate Control
• Leather Steering Wheel and Gearshift
• 16” Alloy Wheels

To take advantage of these fantastic Mazda 6 Estate savings, call Nationwide Vehicle Contracts today on 0844 482 9595  or follow the above links.

You can now save up to £30 a month on selected Mazda 6 Hatch models when you lease with Nationwide Vehicle Contracts this November.

One of our best deals is on the Mazda 6 Hatch 2.2D 163 TS now in stock to lease from just £219.95 + VAT a month. Boasting a distinctive sporty design, exhilarating drive and competitive CO2 emissions, the Mazda 6 is the ideal family car for those with an unashamed passion for driving. Standard features on the above model include:

• Cruise Control
• Dual-Zone Climate Control
• Radio/CD with Aux Input
• Steering Wheel Mounted Remote Controls
• Leather Steering Wheel + Gearshift
• Thatcham Category 1 Alarm
• 16” Alloy Wheels

To find out more about this fantastic Mazda car leasing deal and to view the full Mazda 6 range, simply follow the above links or call Nationwide Vehicle Contracts on 0844 482 9595.

Prices based on a 4 year contract and excludes VAT, initial payment and processing fee. Limited Stock Available. Terms & Conditions Apply.

You can now save up to £69 a month on the Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe with prices now starting from £239.95 + VAT when you lease with Nationwide Vehicle Contracts.

Officially named as the world’s most popular open-top sports car, the new Mazda MX-5 is unrivalled when it comes to fun, power and reliability. The latest generation model fuses modern design with traditional sports car values, resulting in a super sleek, super fast roadster, ideal for petrolheads of all ages.

Nationwide Vehicle Contracts has reduced the monthly leasing rates on the Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe with savings of up to £69 a month on selected models. Prices now start from just £239.95 + VAT a month for the Mazda MX5 2.0i Powershift. Standard features on this model include:

• Bluetooth Telephone Connectivity
• Cruise Control
• Radio/6 CD Autochanger
• Bose Premium Audio system
• Power Retractable Roof
• Climate Control
• Leather Upholstery with Heated Front Seats
• 17″ Alloy Wheels

To take advantage of this fantastic Mazda car leasing deal and to get an instant quotation on any model in the Mazda range, simply follow the above links or call Nationwide Vehicle Contracts today on 0844 482 9595.

Prices based on a 4 year contract and excludes VAT, initial payment and processing fee. Limited Stock Available.  Terms & Conditions Apply.

Nationwide Vehicle Contracts has made further reductions across the Mazda range with prices now starting from as little as £131.95 + VAT a month.

First up is a fantastic deal on the Mazda 2 1.3 TS A/C 3 Door available to lease from £131.95 + VAT a month on a 4 year contract. This striking supermini comes well equipped with Radio/CD with MP3 compatibility, body coloured bumpers, electric front windows and air conditioning. The nippy 1.3L engine also averages 55.4MPG with CO2 emissions at just 119 g/km. 

There’s still time to get behind the wheel of a pre-registered 11 plate Mazda MX-5 1.8i SE available to lease from just £149.95 + VAT a month. Boasting a striking style, powerful 1.8L engine and comfortable interior, the Mazda MX-5 is one of the hottest roadsters on the market, offering exceptional value for money without compromising on sporty style or performance.

For those after a family vehicle, the high-spec Mazda 6 Hatch 2.0 Takuya is now in stock to lease from just £214.95 + VAT a month. This striking vehicle is jam packed full of equipment including Bluetooth, cruise control, heated front seats, dual-zone climate control and 18’’ alloy wheels. A limited number of vehicles are also in stock for quick delivery via our Fast Lease service.

Finally, don’t miss out on the Mazda CX-7 5Dr 2.2d Sport Tech is now available to lease from just £376.95 + VAT a month. The latest Mazda CX-7 combines style and practicability with impressive performance. The latest generation model also comes well equipped with Bluetooth, Sat Nav, cruise control, rear vehicle monitoring system, Bose Premium audio system and 19″ alloy wheels, all offered as standard.

To view the full Mazda range and to get an instant quotation on any model, simply follow the above links or call Nationwide Vehicle Contracts on 0844 482 9595.

Above prices are based on a 4 year, 10000 miles per annum contract. Prices exclude vat, processing payment and initial payment. Terms and Conditions apply.

Nationwide Vehicle Contracts has dropped the prices of the high-spec Mazda 6 Takuya with prices now starting from just £214.95 + VAT a month.

Boasting a distinctive sporty design, exhilarating drive and competitive CO2 emissions, the new Mazda 6 is the ideal family car is for those with an unashamed passion for driving. The high spec Takuya edition offers a generous level of equipment including dual-zone climate control and a leather wrapped steering wheel, making it an ideal environment for the longest motorway journeys.

Nationwide Vehicle Contracts has reduced the monthly leasing rates on the Mazda 6 Hatch 2.0 Takuya with prices now starting from just £214.95 + VAT a month. This superb model comes well-equipped with the following features as standard:

• 6 CD Changer with Auxiliary Input
• Integrated Bluetooth System
• Cruise Control
• Heated Front Seats
• Privacy Glass
• Front Fog Lights
• Dual-Zone Climate Control
• 18’’ Alloy Wheels

To take advantage of this fantastic Mazda car leasing deal, call Nationwide Vehicle Contracts today on 0844 482 9595 or follow the above links.

Above prices are based on a 4 year, 10000 miles per annum contract. Prices exclude vat, processing payment and initial payment. Terms and Conditions apply.

You can now save up to £83 a month on selected Mazda models when you lease with Nationwide Vehicle Contracts.

Whether you’re after a sporty supermini like the Mazda 3 or a sporty roadster like the MX-5, Mazda has a vehicle to suit everyone – and Nationwide Vehicle Contracts has a great price to match!

First up is a great deal on the Mazda 3 1.6 Takuya with prices now starting from just £250.95 + VAT p/m. Standard features on this superb model include Bluetooth, cruise control, 6 CD autochanger, tinted glass, sports seats, 17″ sport alloy wheels.

Savings of up to £40 a month are now available on the Mazda 5 with our best deal on the Mazda 5 2.0 Sport. Ideal for busy family life, the new Mazda 5 is hard to beat when it comes to functionality, versatility and sporty driving dynamics. Prices now start from just £232.95 + VAT a month. 

Our biggest reduction is on the Mazda MX-5 2.0i Sport Tech with savings of up to £83 a month. Boasting a striking style, powerful engine range and comfortable interior, it’s no surprise that the Mazda MX-5 is officially the world’s most popular open-top sports car. Prices now start from just £224.95 + VAT a month.

Finally, if you’re looking for a sporty SUV that combines style and practicability with impressive performance, look no further than the Mazda CX-7. The Mazda CX-7 5Dr 2.2d Sport Tech is now available to lease from just £376.95 + VAT with FREE Metallic Paint. Standard features include Bluetooth, Sat Nav, cruise control, rear vehicle monitoring system, Bose Premium audio system and 19″ alloy wheels.

To view the full Mazda range and to get an instant quotation on any model, simply follow the above links or call Nationwide Vehicle Contracts on 0844 482 9595.

Above prices are based on a 4 year, 10000 miles per annum contract. Prices exclude vat, processing payment and initial payment. Terms and Conditions apply.

There’s still time to get behind the wheel of the pre-reg Mazda MX-5 1.8i SE available to lease from just £139.95 + VAT a month.

The world’s most popular open-top sports car – the Mazda MX-5 – has built up an amazing reputation for fun, power and reliability since the first Eunos Roadsters were imported 20 years ago. The latest generation model fuses modern design with traditional sports car values, resulting in a super sleek, super fast roadster, ideal for all types of car lovers. 

A limited number of pre-registered 11 plate Mazda MX-5 1.8i SE’s are in stock to lease from just £139.95 + VAT. Standard features on this model include Radio/CD with aux input, body coloured bumpers, leather steering wheel and gear lever, sport seats and 16’’ alloy wheels.

Order the Mazda MX-5 1.8i SE with Nationwide Vehicle Contracts before the 30th September and you can also take advantage of FREE Metallic Paint in Sunlight Silver, Stormy Blue or Copper Red.

To find out more about this fantastic Mazda car leasing deal, simply follow the above links or call Nationwide Vehicle Contracts on 0844 482 9595.

Prices based on a 2 year contract and exclude VAT, initial payment and processing fee. Limited Stock Available.  Terms & Conditions Apply.

If you’re looking for a sporty SUV that combines style and practicability with impressive performance, look no further than the Mazda CX-7.

The all-new Mazda CX-7 delivers exhilarating performance with sports car handling. Its responsive 2.2-litre turbo diesel engine delivers an impressive 173PS along with 400Nm of torque. The latest generation model also meets stringent Euro Stage V emissions standards so you can enjoy the power with a clear conscience – no wonder it was Voted ‘Best in Class’ at the 2010 Towcar Awards.

Throughout September, Nationwide Vehicle Contracts has a fantastic offer on the Mazda CX-7 5Dr 2.2d Sport Tech available to lease from just £376.95 + VAT with FREE Metallic Paint. This superb model comes well equipped with the following features as standard:

• Bluetooth System
• Colour Satellite navigation
• Cruise Control
• Rear Vehicle Monitoring System
• Bose Premium Audio system
• Front Fog Lights
• Climate Control
• 19″ Alloy Wheels

To find out more about the Mazda CX-7 and to take advantage of our FREE Metallic Paint offer before it ends on 30th September, simply follow the above links or call Nationwide Vehicle Contracts today on 0844 482 9595.

Above prices are based on a 4 year, 10000 miles per annum contract. Prices exclude vat, processing payment and initial payment. Terms and Conditions apply.