We wrote last month how we’d had an excellent experience when calling Donalds Mazda in Peterborough to book a service for the Mazda3 we’ve been testing for a year.

Having been handled so well over the phone, our expectations were set high.

And we weren’t disappointed.

The dealership is a city centre site, shared with an Alfa Romeo franchise, and with space at a premium.

Nevertheless, access and parking wasn’t a problem. Service reception was wel-coming, and the drop-off was done quick and efficient once service adviser Claire re-confirmed our requirements, contact number and double-checked whether there were any faults or issues.

A few hours later Claire phoned to say the car was in the workshop where the technician had completed a free vehicle health check, and she could reassure us there was nothing to report.

Then came a gentle and professional upsell, as she advised us that now the car was a year old it could benefit from a £29.99 air-con service.

A little later Donalds called again to inform us the service was complete and the car was ready – a full hour ahead of when we had said we’d need to collect it.

On arrival at service reception, Claire was busy so a colleague dealt with us.

We were again dealt with professionally, given the service checklist and copy of the digital service record, before being presented with the bill for £216.89.

The car was washed and leathered.

Overall, the experience was a demonstration of best practice.

As first time customers we felt respected, valued and kept well informed of progress – a fitting end to our year with the Mazda3.