International Motors Ltd, a part of automotive, property and finance business IM Group, has agreed to purchase Cirencester-based The Colt Car Company's aftersales business.

The new subsidiary of International Motors will be called I.M. MAPS (UK) Ltd but will continue to trade, as it has done for many years, under the Mitsubishi Motors in the UK banner.

International Motors, which was established in 1976, is currently the official UK importer for Subaru and Isuzu vehicles and said the addition of the Mitsubishi Motors in the UK aftersales business represents an opportunity to grow its parts and accessories operation.

The purchase will take place on October 1, and the Mitsubishi Motors in the UK aftersales business will operate independently within IM Group from its current base in Cirencester.

It will be staffed by the existing and experienced Mitsubishi aftersales team members, headed up by Toby Marshall who has been a director at Mitsubishi Motors in the UK for more than 12 years.

Andrew Edmiston, managing director at IM Group, said: "Mitsubishi is a wonderful brand with a great reputation for excellent products and outstanding customer service. Through the professionalism of the dealer network, customers have come to expect the very highest levels of service.

"In this new era of ownership by IM Group, a company with customer service at its heart, customers can expect no less commitment from their Mitsubishi dealer than they have experienced in the past. We will ensure all Mitsubishi dealers have the support they need to continue to deliver this. IM Group are pleased and proud to represent Mitsubishi Motors in the UK."

Rob Lindley, managing director at The Colt Car Company, added: "The completion of this deal ensures the long-term future for Mitsubishi aftersales in the UK. Operating within the IM Group, Mitsubishi Motors in the UK will continue to deliver the excellent standards of aftersales care, parts supply and vehicle warranty that our customers have experienced and will continue to provide to our UK customers for many years to come."