The What Car? annual awards took place for the 43rd year running earlier this year, and the competition has never been tougher. Despite this, the new Ford Puma breezed into first place, taking the much-coveted top accolade of “Car of the Year 2020”.
The award ceremony, which took place at Grosvenor House in Park Lane, London, was full of praise for the first Puma car in almost 20 years. It was the sixth time Ford has taken the prestigious top award at the What Car? awards, with the new Ford Puma joining the likes of the Ford Fiesta and the Ford Mondeo.
It’s easy to see that the new Ford Puma stole the limelight at the What Car? awards. As well as scooping the top prize for Car of the Year, it was also the winner of the Small SUV of the Year accolade. Its 1 litre turbocharged engine helped it take the limelight, with its performance exceeding many of its competitors’ 1.5 litre engines.
Another feature that contributed to the Puma’s success was its impressive and versatile boot. Split into two levels, it can carry a surprising amount. The top section alone can carry up to six full size suitcases, while lifting the booting floor makes space for two more carry on suitcases. Golfers can also fit two sets of golf clubs into the well provided.
The award judges praised the new Puma for its mix of functionality and frugality, recognising its impressive practicality for a car of its size. Its simple, easy to use dashboard was one of the winning features, as was the driving position that allows for plenty of seat and steering wheel adjustment. The judges also recognised the new Ford Puma’s spacious interior, which can carry up to five full-sized adults - something that is fairly rare in the small SUV class.