Ford’s S-Max MPV (minivan) has been named the 2007 European Car of the Year 2007.
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The Car of the Year is an international award, judged by a panel of 58 top motoring journalists from 22 European countries. It is organised by a group of seven leading European publications: Auto (Italy), Autocar (Great Britain), Autopista (Spain), Auto Visie (Holland), L’Automobile Magazine (France), Stern (Germany), and Vi Bilagare (Sweden).
The S-Max was declared the winner following a closely fought competition in which 41 contenders for the award were reduced to a shortlist of eight – the Citroën C4 Picasso, Fiat Grande Punto, Ford S-Max, Honda Civic, Opel/Vauxhall Corsa, Peugeot 207, Skoda Roomster and Volvo C30.
“We are absolutely delighted that this all-new model in the Ford range has secured the ultimate accolade as Car of the Year, especially against such worthy competitors and in a year that has seen a record number of eligible contenders,” said Roelant de Waard, chairman and managing director, Ford of Britain.
“Since we launched S-Max earlier this year, we have been amazed at the reaction to the car, both from the opinion forming media as well as our customers.”
“This award confirms what we dared to believe – that Ford S-Max is different, and creates a new vehicle segment in which elements of a sports car and a multi-activity vehicle combine together to deliver a dynamic and stylish family vehicle.” he added.
Ray Hutton, president of the Car of the Year jury said: “This was a very close contest with all eight of the finalists deserving a place on the shortlist. It is clear from the voting that the jury is impressed by the concept of the S-Max: a spacious and versatile car that drives like a sports saloon. Its victory is well-deserved.”
With UK sales of over 4,000 since its launch in June and with the order bank still growing, the S-Max is proving a hit with UK customers. Data from sales so far indicates that over 50% of vehicles being sold are top specification, Titanium models and that a similar percentage are being sold to customers who are new to Ford.
The 2007 award for the S-Max is Ford of Europe’s fifth Car of the Year win, with the original Focus last collecting the award in 1999. Ford also won the title in 1993 with the first generation Mondeo, in 1985 with the Scorpio, and in 1981 with the Escort.
Rivals likely to eye S-Max closely
