The award was presented to Roger Putnam, chairman Ford of Britain, by the magazine’s editor-in-chief, David Johns. He said: "The new Focus tackles every task, rises to every challenge and conducts itself beautifully. It's effortlessly easy to drive with perfectly weighted controls, has a highly practical attitude to passengers and luggage, is well equipped, affordable, safe, secure and has a miserly approach to running cost."

Roger Putnam said: "We are delighted and proud to see the new Ford Focus scoop the Auto Express Car of the Year trophy. Being crowned "Supreme Champion" is a fantastic accolade and just confirms that the all-new Ford continues to set the standard in the fiercely competitive compact family car segment."

The all-new Focus went on sale in January and is available in four different body styles with a selection of refined and frugal petrol and diesel engines and priced from £11,195 to £18, 825.