Perrys has announced it will offer the new Mazda3 as part of its driving school programme in addition to giving driving instructors access to low-rate finance.

The Portsmouth-based car retailer initially launched into the driving instructor market with the Mazda2 last year, but has now given it a boost with the availability of the Mazda3 as part of the improved programme, which will run until the end of this year.

Now all Mazda2 and Mazda3 models, with the exception of limited edition cars, are available under the programme which is specifically aimed at the 17,000 qualified driving instructors who are self-employed or work for small driving schools, confirmed Perrys.

Bob Wright, general manager for Perrys, said: “Anecdotal evidence suggests that many newly qualified drivers go on to purchase either a new or second-hand car similar to the one in which they had driving lessons.

"So, by launching an improved driving schools programme we believe we will generate additional new and used car sales."

The programme includes free-of-charge supply and fitment of He-Man dual controls, header board including graphics, metallic paint and access to low rate finance on both Mazda2 and Mazda3 models.

In addition, on the Mazda3 a GPS secondary speedometer is fitted free of charge to the passenger side dashboard for the benefit of the driving instructor.

Wright: "We have seen solid demand for the Mazda2 from driving schools since Mazda launched the programme.

"However, it is also clear that some instructors require a larger car that can be used both to instruct pupils and as their ‘main’ family vehicle. That is why we have added the Mazda3 to the programme."