Sporty Ford S-MAX Leads Ford's Summer Sales Charge

Ford's newest people carrier is taking the market by storm - and is already one of the UK's favourite MPVs after just two months on sale.

The Ford S-MAX has beaten all targets by attracting over 1,320 customers in June and July. And the same number again have placed orders for the innovative seven-seater.

Most popular is the top-of-the-range Titanium model which accounts for more than 50 per cent of orders. Across Europe half of those buying an S-MAX are new to the Ford Blue Oval, according to market research.

Figures released today by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) also show that, in a car market where more motorists than ever are switching to diesel for increased fuel economy, Ford's acclaimed TDCi turbo diesel common-rail range is benefiting. So far this year 32 per cent of new cars from the Blue Oval are diesel - up five percentage points on a year ago.

Other Ford highlights include:

• Car market leadership by a 22,700-unit margin in Ford's 30th successive year on top
• Continued trio of successes for Ford Focus, which is Britain's top-selling car overall, as well as favourite diesel choice and number one among company car drivers
• Near 20 per cent hike in year-to-date sales for Britain's favourite small car, the Ford Fiesta
• 10 per cent registrations increase for small car Multi-Activity Vehicle, the Ford Fusion
• Ford Fiesta Van and short wheelbase Transit and Tourneo Connect enjoy five percentage point rise in share of light commercial vehicle market to 23 per cent

Roelant de Waard, Ford of Britain chairman and managing director, said: "I'm among the country's new Ford S-MAX drivers because I value its blend of head-turning looks and performance with space and practicality. The vehicle's early sales reports confirm Britain's motoring public agrees."