Mazda is aiming to increase new car sales to driving schools, and ultimately to their successful pupils, with a series of new incentives to driving instructors.

Both the Mazda2 and Mazda3 are included in the special driving school programme which offers: low rate vehicle finance; free of charge supply and fitment of ‘he-man’ dual controls; free car header board including graphics; and free metallic paint.

In addition, a GPS secondary speedometer will be fitted free of charge on the Mazda 3.

The programme, which includes all regular Mazda2 and Mazda3 models with the exception of limited edition cars, is aimed at the 17,000 qualified driving instructors who are self-employed or work for small driving schools.

Mazda fleet and remarketing director Peter Allibon said: “Many of the approximate 750,000 people who pass their driving test annually will be looking to buy a car.

“There is significant evidence that many newly qualified drivers buy a derivative of the car in which they took their lessons, because familiarity breeds confidence.

“Therefore, it makes sense for Mazda to offer a cost-effective driving school car programme to instructors as not only will they benefit, but the move could also result in a significant new business opportunity for our dealer network.”