The trim level is available with the 129PS 2.2-litre diesel engine, which emits 138g/km of CO2, putting it in the 20% BiK bracket for 2011/12.

Priced at £18,300 on-the-road, the Mazda6 Business Line features standard model specification, plus a Sanyo TomTom satellite navigation system with Bluetooth technology and 17-inch alloy wheels. Other features include: Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) and Traction Control System (TCS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Emergency Brake Assist as well as front, side and curtain airbags, cruise control and dual-zone climate control air conditioning.

The model will be available in the three most popular colours chosen by company car drivers – Black Mica, Sunlight Silver Metallic and Stormy Blue Mica.

The model is available to order from 1 June 2011 with first deliveries beginning in late summer. Mazda anticipates that it will sell approximately 500 Business Line models in the remainder of 2011, with annual sales expected to total around 1,000 units.

Mazda fleet and remarketing director Steve Jelliss said: 'With this well-equipped, fleet-focused Mazda6 model, we are anticipating significant incremental sales. This is the first time Mazda has introduced a model specifically intended to appeal to company car drivers through a combination of both features and attractive BiK rates.'

Jelliss added: 'Drivers choosing the new Mazda6 ‘Business Line’ model will pay just £60.43 a month if a basic rate taxpayer or £120.87 a month if a higher rate taxpayer. That represents fantastic value-for-money for a car with the style, performance and features of our latest model.

'With an anticipated monthly contract hire rate lower than significant rival models, the Mazda6 ‘Business Line’ will sit in the company car band below the premium badge cars. Consequently, given its tax rating and specification levels, we also anticipate the car will appeal to employees choosing a car within a salary sacrifice scheme.'