Mazda is introducing four special versions of its Mazda3 and Mazda5 – the ‘Venture Edition’ models, priced from £17,495 (OTR).

On sale now, the new Venture Edition quartet features include: front fog lights, gun metal alloy wheels, sports front grille, side skirts and rear spoiler and privacy glass. Inside, there is Sanyo TomTom navigation with 5.8-inch touch-screen display and integrated Bluetooth, plus climate control air-conditioning and cruise control.

“The arrival of the new Mazda3 and Mazda5 Venture Edition models, with their unique combination of advanced technology, sports styling, a premium interior and great added value, will attract new consumers to our showrooms,” comments Peter Allibon, sales director, Mazda UK.

“Both the Mazda3 and Mazda5 feature attractive styling and deliver a dynamic and engaging drive, with strongly performing petrol and diesel engines, plus finely tuned suspension and steering, and a top quality spacious and practical interior. With competitive fuel consumption and CO2 emissions, together with reduced running costs and Mazda’s outstanding Japanese-style build quality and legendary reliability, the Venture Edition models make great ownership prospects,” adds Allibon.

Based on the Mazda3 TS, the Venture Edition also gains heated front seats and sports interior – for a modest total premium of £500 above the donor-car. The Mazda5 Venture Edition is based on the Mazda5 TS2 and benefits from sports styling, a piano-black centre console and iPod connectivity. Premium above the donor-car is £630.

The Mazda3 is available with a 1.6-litre MZR (105ps) petrol engine at £17,495 or a 1.6-litre (115ps) diesel priced at £18,995. The Mazda5 comes with a 2.0-litre (150ps) MZR petrol engine for £19,995 or a 1.6-litre (115ps) diesel costing £21,290.

Depending on model, fuel economy can be as high as 65.7mpg (combined cycle) and CO2 emissions as low as 115 g/km – for diesel Mazda3.