Ford has again been confirmed as the industry favourite by winning Fleet Manufacturer of the Year at the 2008 Fleet World awards, repeating last year’s success. Honours also went to the new Ford Kuga crossover and to the Ford S-MAX.

The Fleet World awards are presented annually to manufacturers achieving the highest possible level of excellence in their sector - with Manufacturer of the Year as the top title.

Fleet World editor Ken Rogers said: “Ford continues to lead the way, both in terms of quantity and quality. It is easy to see why Ford’s fleet sales have remained so high when you look at the tremendous range of cars they now offer. But take nothing away from the company’s impressive fleet support operations, from driver contact through the talkback programme, to after sales and field support. Ford has a fleet operation to be proud of.”

Ford’s new crossover model, the Kuga, has won Best 4×4. Ken Rogers commented: “Ford’s new Kuga is a late arrival in this sector but most will come to see it as the benchmark. Stylish, well-built and excellent to drive, it’s a versatile option for ‘lifestyle’ fleet drivers - and as with all contemporary Ford products, it comes at a price that won’t break the bank. Class-leading CO2 emissions also weigh heavily in Kuga’s favour.”

The award for Best Large MPV went to the Ford S-MAX. Commenting on the award, chairman of the Fleet World Awards judging panel, George Emmerson, said: “As this vehicle is built on the same platform as the Galaxy and new Mondeo, it was bound to be a success. In all surveys carried out on similar models from other manufacturers, the S-MAX consistently comes top on style, handling, performance, safety/security and equipment.”

Ford’s successes at the awards were welcomed by Kevin Griffin, director of fleet operations: “We aim to match closely the needs of our fleet customers and the wants of individual drivers. These awards demonstrate that we have succeeded with both the vehicles we offer and the service we provide.”