Mazda Rolls Out Internet "Personal Shopper" Program

Mazda shoppers are among the youngest in the auto industry, so it comes as little surprise that the Japanese automaker has rolled out what it describes as an "industry first" Internet personal shopper program.

The program, which starts Monday, is set up to take some of the hassle and time out of the vehicle shopping process. Mazda said potential buyers can get an actual quote on a vehicle from their choice of dealership, as opposed to just being provided with the MSRP.

The Mazda Shopping Assistant (MSA) program links buyers with personal shoppers who can answer product questions and help with the buying process through live Web chat sessions. More information is available at Mazda's Web site.

"On average, a typical car buyer spends four hours at most dealerships buying a new car," said Mike Ray, Mazda North American Operations customer satisfaction and loyalty director. "In a day and age when every hour counts in our busy schedules, we believe the new MSA program is the perfect tool."