New Puma Crowned What Car? Car of the Year 2020

Unveiled last year and now on sale, the new Ford Puma combines mild-hybrid fuel efficiency, best-in-class luggage space and advanced driver assistance technologies in a stylish crossover.

Steve Huntingford, What Car? editor, said: “As a small SUV, the Ford Puma competes in one of the fastest-growing sectors of the car market. And crucially, it excels in all the areas that are important to buyers, according to our research. Thanks to its sharp handling, gutsy engine and clever mild hybrid technology, the Puma offers a mix and fun and frugality not previously seen. Plus, it’s very well priced and equipped, and as practical as it is stylish. In short, it’s truly outstanding.”

The consumer magazine and website, attracting over 1.95 million monthly users, chose the well-equipped Puma ST-Line X Mild Hybrid 1.0 EcoBoost 155PS, priced at £23,645, as their best recommended model.

On receiving the award, Roelant de Waard, vice president, Ford of Europe Marketing, Sales and Service, said: “It’s a great honour for the Ford Puma to be named as What Car?’s Car of the Year 2020. We’re all excited to see the return of the Puma name on a stylish and dynamic crossover that reflects today’s customer aspirations. Puma blends practicality with performance and fuel-efficiency with its choice of a 1.0-litre, 125PS or 155PS hybrid options.

“To receive such high praise from industry experts like What Car? kicks off the year to a great start. This is Ford’s sixth What Car? Car of the Year win, and we are thankful for the continued support.”  

Ford Galaxy – Best MPV (over £30,000)

What Car? also named the Ford Galaxy as best MPV in its price.

The Ford Galaxy 2.0 EcoBlue Zetec 150PS was voted as the pick of the range.

Ford Fiesta ST – Best Hot Hatch (under £24,000)

The Ford Fiesta ST was recognised by What Car? for fifth time, picking-up the award for best hot hatch.

The What Car? team decided the Fiesta ST-2 3-door with Performance Pack was the best option in the range.

Ford Ranger – Best Pick-Up (£28,000 - £35,000)

The Ford Ranger was recognised as best pick-up, with the What Car? pick of the range identified as the Ranger Double Cab 2.0 EcoBlue 170 XLT.