The New Ford S-MAX Featuring Award Winning Technology

The new Ford S-MAX, which goes on sale this week, features Best Technical Innovation 2010 according to Fleet News.

With new Ford S-MAX prices just announced from £20,645, the stylish and sporty Multi Purpose Vehicle (MPV) is celebrating a double victory at this year's Fleet News Awards. As well as being voted Best MPV by the influential fleet industry publication, Ford's Easy Fuel system was named Best Technical Innovation.

The Ford S-MAX beat five MPV rivals on the Fleet News shortlist thanks to its "good design, practicality, high quality, flexibility and driver appeal". Added the judges: "This car will appeal to both finance and HR-led fleets - allowing their employees to choose a people carrier without feeling like they are driving a big car."

The new Ford S-MAX model with distinctively fresh looks and a revised and more luxurious interior goes on sale in April 2010. It features Ford's Easy Fuel filler nozzle system, which won praise from Fleet News for its simplicity of design and effectiveness in preventing a driver from mistakenly filling a diesel-engined car with petrol.

"It eliminates a problem which can cost thousands of pounds each time a car is misfuelled," commented judges. "Simple but highly effective, and with 300,000 units installed it is having a significant impact on fleet drivers."

Kevin Griffin, Ford Britain fleet director, said: "The most stylish MPV is just about to get even better when new S-MAX arrives from next month. I'm delighted Fleet News recognised the impact of both S-MAX and Ford Easy Fuel, now fitted across our range."