What's the news?

Mazda has gone against the conventional test drive way of doing things by offering driving experiences in three of its latest models. The Mazda6, CX-5 and MX-5 are the cars in question; and winners of Mazda's 'Surprising Drives' competition will be able to take them to three locations around the world to put them through their paces.

Norway, Italy and the USA are the three locations for first-place competition winners. Those heading to Norway will find themselves on a route that takes them through the southern part of the country, around the Fjords and along the Atlantic Road in a CX-5. Those opting for a drive in the new, award-winning Mazda6 will end up in Los Angeles. Here the route will encompass the dry river bed that features in many Hollywood films. Winners will also be treated to a meal at INK - America's best new restaurant according to GQ magazine. Finally, the MX-5 winners will head for Italy; taking in the famous Stelvio Pass through the Alps. The route leads from Monza to Florence and features 60 hairpin bends and a 2,757-metre altitude to really test the MX-5.

Entering the contest is simple. Mazda has launched a game on its website - www.mazda.co.uk/surprisingdrives - that can be played on both desktop computers and tablets. The aim is to use an arm to grab coloured balls, with each colour representing a different vehicle as the prize.

Mazda isn't stopping with just first-place winners though; as there are also 140 chances to win unconventional test drives in the UK. These trips will include visiting some of Britain's key venues including the Gleneagles Hotel, The Kennels at Goodwood and Daylesford Organic in the Coltswolds. Mazda is also giving away eight 'weekly wins', offering the chance to keep either the Mazda6, CX-5 or MX-5 for an entire week.

Anything else?

In addition to regular driving, Mazda has also set up a variety of track days to show off the models' potential. Available tracks include Silverstone, Croft and Donington.

"These drives really are unconventional," comments James Crouch, Mazda UK's Senior Marketing Manager. "Mazda wants its customers to have fun, get involved, and allow them to really explore the cars' abilities."
The Surprising Drives campaign launched on 15th July with first-place winners set to claim their prizes in the autumn.

James Giddings - 19 Jul 2013