Mazda will focus on ‘manufacturing innovation and accelerated structural reforms’ in its new four-year mid-term plans for fiscal years 2007 to 2010.

The Japanese manufacturer highlighted three key points which it is aiming for in its Mazda Advancement Plan (MAP). It will achieve 1.6 million global retail sales by 2010, make an operating profit of over £862m, and a return on sales (ROS) ratio of 6%, in addition to a stable payout of dividends.

Hisakazu Imaki, Mazda president and CEO, said: “The next steps that Mazda needs to take for the future are clear: deepen our synergies with Ford, improve Mazda’s brand value and seek increased business efficiencies.”

Imaki said Mazda’s relationship with Ford is considered to be a ‘win-win’ partnership and said it would continue to be a top priority.

Mazda's European plans include the development of engines, an improvement in customer satisfaction and to forge ahead with dealer openings in city centres.