CAP predicts strong residual values for Mazda3

Car valuation experts at CAP have predicted strong residual values (RV) for the Mazda3. Depending on specification the ‘3 is expected to retain up to 37% of its original value after three years/60,000 miles. Mazda attributes the strong predicted RVs to low running costs, along with improved cabin materials and more interior space over previous Mazda models.

Thanks to relatively low new prices the strong RVs apply in cash terms, not just percentage terms – CAP predicts, for example, that the 2.0-litre 5dr hatchback 120ps SE petrol (£16,940) will retain 35 per cent/£5,950 of its new value after three years and 60,000 miles.

CAP forecasting editor (cars) Jeff Knight said: “Inside there are obvious improvements in the materials used and in the car’s build quality. An increase in interior space has also been achieved, which will be attractive to buyers. Allied with lightweight SKYACTIV technology, a well specified car with a 150ps diesel engine offering from just 104g/km of CO2 is a genuinely interesting and competitive player in a heavily crowded sector.”