What Car? has named the new Ford Puma at its 2020 Car of the Year during its 43rd annual awards ceremony.

The first Ford to use the Puma name in almost 20 years, it took the top prize after triumphing in the Small SUV category, where it saw off competition from models including the Audi Q2 and Skoda Kamiq.

Rivals for the overall Car of the Year title included the Skoda Scala, Range Rover Evoque and Tesla Model 3 among others, reflecting the diversity of new cars launched during the past 12 months.

The judges praised the Puma for being fun to drive, cleverly packaged and well priced. Additionally, What Car?’s independent True MPG tests showed it to be extremely economical in real-world driving, thanks to its mild hybrid technology.

What Car? editor Steve Huntingford said: “As a small SUV, the Ford Puma competes in one of the fastest-growing sectors of the car market. Crucially, it also 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, it offers a mix of fun and frugality not previously seen among its competitors. Plus, it’s as practical as it is stylish. In short, the Ford Puma is truly outstanding.”

Sixth win for Ford

Victory at the 2020 What Car? Car of the Year Awards marks the sixth time Ford has taken home this prestigious accolade – but the first time it has won since 2009, when it triumphed with the Ford Fiesta.

Roelant de Waard, vice president, Ford of Europe Marketing, Sales & 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 from its choice of 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 What Car? has shown Ford.

The prized Reader Award, voted for by the public and given to the most eagerly anticipated new launch of the year ahead, went to the new Land Rover Defender. The brand saw further success with the Range Rover Evoque awarded Best Family SUV.

WHAT CAR? CAR OF THE YEAR AWARDS 2020 WINNERS LIST

Car of the Year 2020

Ford Puma

Best Small SUV – sponsored by CAP HPI

Ford Puma

Best Hot Hatch

Honda Civic Type R GT

Best Value Car – sponsored by MotorEasy

Kia Picanto

Best Family SUV

Range Rover Evoque

Best Coupe SUV

Range Rover Velar

Best Small Electric Car – sponsored by Instavolt

Renault Zoe

Best Family Car

Skoda Scala

Best Estate Car

Skoad Superb

Best Hybrid – sponsored by CitNow

Toyota Corolla

Reader Award – sponsored by ALA Insurance

Land Rover Defender

Reliability Award – sponsored by MotorEasy

Lexus