Allied to the recent launch of the all-new Mazda2, which is expected to attract demand from public sector fleets and employees opting for company cars through salary sacrifice schemes, and continuing corporate demand for the Mazda3 launched just last year, as well as the 2015 enhanced Mazda6 and Mazda CX-5, it means the marque has one of the youngest line-ups of any manufacturer.

In addition Mazda’s third new model launch of 2015 will take place in late summer with the arrival of the all-new Mazda MX-5, which continues to find favour among employees who can make lifestyle company car choices.

In the 12 months to 31 March 2015, Mazda fleet sales totalled 11,876, up 43% on the prior year’s 8,319 units with the brand seeing demand for the Mazda6 – up 10%, the Mazda CX-5 range – up 19% and the Mazda3 – which was launched early last year and secured a strong foothold in the corporate sector with volume up more than five times versus the previous model.

What’s more Mazda’s year-on-year fleet growth is being driven by public and private sector organisations that lease or outright purchase their company cars with volumes up 31% year-on-year.

In the last three years Mazda has seen fleet sales as a share of April to March financial year total new car volumes rise from 16% in 2012/13 to 23% in 2013/14 and 30% in 2014/15.

Mazda head of fleet Steve Tomlinson is forecasting that fleet sales will top 15,000 units in 2015/16 fuelled by further demand for the Mazda3, Mazda6 and Mazda CX-5 allied to significant demand for the all-new Mazda2, which will have its first full year on sale.

Tomlinson commented: “The launch of the all-new Mazda2 and Mazda CX-3 coupled with rip-roaring success of the Mazda3 and further enhancements to the Mazda6 and Mazda CX-5, which have both been long-time fleet favourites, gives the brand a powerful model line-up in the corporate sector.  I am confident that we will see a further major increase in fleet sales in 2015/16, potentially a 25% increase.

“SKYACTIV is driving demand for Mazda cars. Momentum is really building as fleet managers and company car drivers recognise the attributes of SKYACTIV and the compelling proposition of low emissions and excellent MPG as well as a stylish car with great performance.

“For many fleet managers and company car drivers, Mazda is the new kid on the block but they recognise the brand as a standout performer versus German marques and volume manufacturers.”