MAZDA has slashed the price of its new Premacy by more than £300 across the range - before the mini-MPV has even reached the showrooms. The manufacturer says the prices initially announced for the rival to Renault's Scenic were led by Europe, but Mazda UK has managed to bring them down to a more competitive level. A spokesman said: 'It was decided prices needed to be lower in order to compete in the UK market.'

On-the-road prices for the Premacy range - which went on sale on August 2 - now begin at £14,375 (originally £14,700) for the 1.8 100bhp GXi; £14,775 (£15,100) for the 1.8 100bhp GXi with sunroof; £16,525 (£16,850) for the 1.8 115bhp GSi; and £17,220 (£17,545) for the 1.8 115bhp GSi automatic. The 2.0 diesel DI Turbo GXi goes on sale at £15,375 (£15,700) in January.