(May 18, 2010) The Ford Fiesta has been selected Diesel Car magazine's Best Small Car of the Year 2010. The award comes just as Fiesta has been upgraded to consolidate its number one sales spot in Britain.

The Fiesta can be purchased with a diesel engine in Europe, an option that will not be offered in North America.

Ian Robertson, editor of  Diesel Car magazine said:  "The Fiesta is great to drive with terrific handling, precise steering and a supple well-judged ride. The blend of good looks, frugal diesel engine and funky interior design makes it a real winner in our eyes."

Mark Simpson, marketing director, Ford of Britain said: "This latest Fiesta is becoming another Ford icon. The British public love the Fiesta's style but, as Diesel Car stated, once they get behind the wheel, they love that experience too."

Ford announced last month that Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) was standard across the Fiesta range. Bluetooth and USB connection are standard in Titanium models, there is more power for the stage V diesel engines and CO2 emissions are reduced.

The Ford Fiesta continues to lead the UK sales charts with 43,611 sales so far in 2010.