Mazda RX-8 Named Best Sporting Car in the AXA Northern Ireland Car of the Year Awards





Britain's Favourite Sports Car Brand has received yet another award for its trophy cabinet as the rotary-powered sports coupe Mazda RX-8 wins the Best Sporting Car category in the AXA Insurance Northern Ireland Car of the Year Awards 2006.


The Best Sporting Car award was presented by members of the Ulster Motoring Writers Association (UMWA) at a prestigious ceremony in Belfast sponsored by AXA Insurance on 10 February 2006.


Speaking at the ceremony, Chairman of the Ulster Motoring Writers' Association, Jim McCauley, said: "Of all the vehicles judged in the Sporting Car Category the Mazda RX-8 was the clear winner, while VW Golf GTi came in as runner-up.


"Mazda produces the world's best selling two-seater sports car in the Mazda MX-5 and it is no surprise that the latest evolution uses the chassis of the Mazda RX-8. With the rearwards positioning of its rotary engine the Mazda RX-8 offers ideal 50:50 balance along with the ability to accommodate four adults in comfort and style."


Jim added: "The AXA Insurance Northern Ireland Car of the Year Awards 2006 are an important hallmark for the manufacturers as the decision is objectively reached by the nine UMWA members, representing the major media outlets across the Province."


Mazda UK's managing director Rob Lindley was delighted with the award: "The Best Sporting Car award is a great accolade for Mazda RX-8, which has proved incredibly popular in Northern Ireland. Since its launch just two years ago we have sold over 400 Mazda RX-8's in the Ulster region alone.


"This latest award makes 16 UK awards for Mazda RX-8 and over 40 international accolades proving that Mazda really is Britain's Favourite Sports Car Brand."


Tim Scott, General Manager, AXA Insurance, said: "This is the first time that AXA has sponsored the Car of the Year Awards and what a year it has been for those living on the cusp of new car design. The awards not only exist to pay tribute to advances in technology but also to provide consumers with sound information upon which to base their vehicle purchasing decisions. This year has been a particularly exciting one with strong contenders in each class."


The UMWA (Ulster Motoring Writers Association) comprises members from across Northern Ireland and collectively the group covers in excess of 250,000 miles on the Province's roads in one of the most demanding evaluations of new cars.















Related Links: www.mazda.com / www.mazdausa.com / www.mazda.co.uk