BRENTWOOD, 19 September, 2008 – UK buyers thinking of investing in a used car should take note: Ford has been voted tops by two separate panels of used car experts this week.
What Car? put the Ford Focus and Ford Mondeo top of their respective categories ("Small Family Car" and "Family Car"), and put the popular Focus ahead of the opposition to become overall Britain's the best used car of 2008.
"It’s impossible to argue against the Ford Focus when you see exactly what you get for your money. Just £5,200 (05 examples) will buy you a car that’s great to drive, practical, reliable and cheap to run. What more could you want.’" Said Matt Sanger, used car editor, What Car?
The Ford Focus was also the overwhelming choice of Auto Express's panel of expert judges, which included Jeff Paterson from industry trade bible Glass's Guide and car trader-turned TV presenter Mike Brewer. They summarised their opinions by saying: "When it came to picking an overall winner, there was no argument. The Focus offers an unbeatable all-round package".
Both car titles also independently agreed on the same choice of family car. The Best Used Family Car 2008 trophy was taken by the Ford Mondeo. What Car? judges said " The Mondeo is stunning value on the used market, with the 1.8-litre-petrol versions the pick of the crop. A modest amount of money gets you a sharply styled hatchback that’s spacious and great to drive."
Auto Express judges said, "In terms of how much car you get for your money, the Mondeo is tough to beat."
Finally, Ford’s Fiesta has shown its super- mini rivals how best to appeal in the sector, winning the What Car? best super-mini category. “The Ford Fiesta is one of the best-handling super-minis on the market, and shames more expensive rivals. It’s not only practical, but reliable and economical to run, too," said What Car?
Kevin Griffin, director of fleet operations Ford of Britain and responsible for used car sales nationally, commented: "These top awards recognise the strength in depth provided by the Ford Focus range. Also, it underlines the quality and reliability offered by the Ford range backed up by low cost of ownership and an unmatched dealer network."