AUTOCAR GAME CHANGER - The Ford Fiesta ST200 takes the honours for drivers car under £30k

• Autocar presents second award in as many years to Ford Performance models
• Increases number of UK awards for top-selling Ford Fiesta to over 60  

The Ford Fiesta ST200 has been crowned Britain’s best affordable driver’s car under £30,000 at this year’s Autocar Awards.

Since the 200PS version of the Fiesta ST arrived under a year ago, 850 have been ordered by UK driving enthusiasts – in addition to 6,125 choosing the standard 182PS version in the same period.

The enthusiast’s motoring magazine and website declared Fiesta ST200 “the best-made, most convincing all-round ST yet”, thanks to steering enhanced to make the car’s initial rate of turn even more rigorous, the hot supermini’s tight-bodied response through bends and 0-62mph in 6.7sec and a maximum 142mph. 

Driving fans have a long history of being attracted to fast Fords, having bought a total of 17,250 of the current Fiesta ST.  

The 250PS Ford Focus RS, honoured at last year’s Autocar Awards with a maximum five stars for its “barmy and tremendously engaging” drive, has drawn a further 5,000 thrill seekers to the blue oval brand.

The larger Focus ST, available with petrol and diesel powertrains in both hatchback and estate body styles, the right-hand drive Mustang muscle car and newly launched GT supercar are the other models offering a performance Ford for every budget – from £18,000 Fiesta ST to the over £420,000 GT.

The current Fiesta has scooped up 61 awards since launch in 2008, including this one from Autocar, 12 from sister publication What Car? and the balance from other auto media and experts.

Matthias Tonn, Fiesta ST200 chief engineer who collected the award, said:  “The Ford Performance team took a special drivers’ car to a new level of power and performance in the ST200.  Customer take-up and awards such as this have established Fiesta ST200 as a future classic and helped put fast Fords at the top of petrol heads’ wish lists.”

The model’s 1.6-litre EcoBoost engine uses a new calibration to deliver 200PS – twice the power offered by its Fiesta XR2 predecessor 20 years ago – and 290Nm of torque, with an additional 15PS available for up to 20 seconds using overboost.

A 4.06 ratio final drive – shortened from 3.82 in the Fiesta ST – further enhances in-gear acceleration.  The Fiesta ST200 utilises upgraded Fiesta ST suspension and Electronic Power Assisted Steering (EPAS) settings to improve ride quality and driving dynamics.

A rear twist-beam with 27 per cent more roll-stiffness and a front anti-roll bar increased to 21mm from 19mm diameter support revised damper specifications for better impact absorption. Like the Fiesta ST, the ST200 sits 15mm closer to the road than standard Fiesta models.

Unique storm grey body colour, 17in black machined alloys with red brake calipers and Recaro partial leather seats complete the Fiesta ST200’s specifications.

AUTOCAR GAME CHANGER - The Golf GTi is a true game changer, the readers award it such !

• Iconic Volkswagen hot hatch voted Autocar readers’ favourite
• Golfalso_celebrates honestjohn.co.uk and DieselCar awards
• Updated Golf continues model’s 40-year success story

Volkswagen’s iconic Golf GTI has been named the Readers’ Champion in a huge online poll by influential automotive title Autocar. 

Autocar Editor Mark Tisshaw said: ”Earlier this year we came up with a list of 39 very special cars we believe have changed motoring for the better. Then we asked our readers to choose their favourite.

“The Volkswagen Golf GTI began life many years ago as a bit of a curiosity, but it soon created an entire car market movement – and has led it ever since because its creators remained focused on what mattered.

“Now, as ever, the Golf GTI is one of the true greats of our industry.”

Receiving the award on behalf of Volkswagen at the Autocar Awards this week was the brand’s Head of Chassis Tuning, Karsten Schebstat, who travelled from the company’s HQ in Wolfsburg, Germany, for the event.

The Golf’s success in the magazine readers’ poll comes hot on the heels of a brace of other award wins for Volkswagen’s most popular model.

Online title HonestJohn.co.uk also uses its readers as the basis for its awards and, just a few days ago, the Golf was named top of its Small Family Car class for 2017.

Managing Editor Dan Powell said: “HonestJohn.co.uk readers love the style and refinement of the latest Golf, with it coming out top in the small family car category.

“Upmarket and robust, the Golf remains true to Volkswagen’s family car values, with affordable running costs and lots of everyday comfort and practicality.

“With this in mind, it’s unsurprising to see it come out on top in the Honest John Awards 2017.”

But that’s not the end of the Golf’s recent run of award-winning form. In the latest DieselCar Top 50, celebrating the very best 50 new cars on sale in the UK today – the updated Golf was named ‘Best Medium Car’ and ‘Best Plug-in Hybrid’.

DieselCar editor Ian Robertson said: “A household name for good reason, it’s easy to underestimate the Golf until you spend time in one. One of the best all-rounders on sale, almost every detail has been perfected over its seven generations, and the facelifted 2017 model brings even more improvements to the winning formula.

“The interior is as classy as ever, but now has one of the best infotainment systems in the business. New technology such as pedestrian detection boosts safety, while Traffic Jam Assist can drive the car semi-autonomously.”

In 2016 a total of 72,762 new Golfs were sold in the UK confirming the model’s top spot among the five key pillars of the brand here alongside new Tiguan, Polo, Passat and new up!.

AUTOCAR GAME CHANGER - The Aston Martin DB11 takes an award at this years ceremony.

Aston Martin has claimed top honours at this year’s prestigious Autocar Awards, taking home the ‘Game Changer’ award with its bold new addition to the illustrious ‘DB’ bloodline, the DB11.

The award, which celebrates cars that bring new, higher standards to their classes, or defy convention in a way that brings benefit to buyers, cements the importance of DB11 to the brand’s Second Century Plan; the British marque’s ambitious challenge of launching seven key new products in the same number of years.

The DB11 showcases a fresh and distinctive design language, pioneering aerodynamics and powered by a new 600-BHP in-house designed 5.2-litre twin-turbocharged V12 engine. 

Built upon a new lighter, stronger, and more space efficient bonded aluminium structure, DB11 is the most powerful, most efficient and most dynamically gifted DB model in Aston Martin’s history and the Autocar judging panel recognised the company’s achievement with this award.

Mark Tisshaw, Editor of Autocar said, “The DB11 is as comfortable as new Aston GT cars will get, but what’s just as important as how excellent it is, is what it’s made of: it is the first in a new-generation of aluminium platforms that is more advanced yet just as flexible as the previous architecture from a production perspective. There’s a new factory in Wales, too, which will supplement production at Aston’s base in Gaydon. While there’s exciting plans all round for the company, it’s the DB11 we’ll remember as the car that started its new era, earning it one of this year’s ‘Game Changer’ awards”.

Andy Palmer, Aston Martin President & Chief Executive Officer said, “We are honoured that Autocar recognises the strides that we have made with the Aston Martin DB11. This is just the start of our second century plan, but this model already begins to redefine who we are. We will continue to pursue the same levels of quality, performance and pioneering excellence as we have done with DB11 and we look forward to the launch of many more exciting new models in the coming years”.

Aston Martin DB11 pricing starts from £157,900 RRP in the UK.

AUTOCAR GAME CHANGER - Volvo designer honoured for desirable & distinctive design

• Thomas Ingenlath honoured for “desirable and distinctive design” at 2017 Autocar Awards
• Ingenlath has spearheaded Volvo’s design revolution
• Volvo transformation includes new XC90, S90, V90 and recently unveiled new XC60 

Volvo Cars’ Senior Vice President of Design, Thomas Ingenlath, has won the ‘Design Hero’ award at the 2017 Autocar Awards.

Ingenlath has been at Volvo since 2012 and has led a team of designers that have revolutionised Volvo design – and in turn helped make Volvos among the most desirable premium cars on sale today. 

Modern Volvo styling takes traditional Scandinavian design cues – such as clean, simple lines and controlled surfaces – and combines them with classic proportions and striking details to create a distinctive range of premium cars. 

Add interiors that feature the finest natural materials, skilled craftsmanship and lots of natural light, and a Volvo is a luxurious, elegant, relaxing place in which to travel. 

The first Volvo production model to benefit from this bold new design language was the XC90 seven-seat SUV in 2014, which was closely followed by the S90 saloon, V90 estate and the recently launched XC60 mid-sized SUV. 

In order to highlight this new design direction at the Autocar Awards, Ingenlath personally chose a V90 D5 Inscription in Maple Brown, with blond/charcoal Nappa soft leather upholstery, walnut interior inlays, 20-inch eight-spoke diamond-cut alloy wheels, a panoramic glass sunroof and dark-tinted windows. 

Mark Tisshaw, Autocar Editor, said: “Great design is what brings the car industry to a wider audience, and Thomas has turned a mainstream product into a fully-fledged luxury brand. 

“His five years in charge of design for Volvo has coincided with a reinvention of the company itself. Volvo’s products are now among the most desirable, distinctive and best looking on the market, and are true rivals to the established German luxury car makers.” 

Commenting on the award, Thomas Ingenlath said: “It is a great honour to receive this award from such an influential motoring title as Autocar. Volvo’s new design language is Scandinavian design at its best: form with function, and genuine beauty. That the hard work of everyone involved in designing Volvos has been recognised in such a way is a fantastic achievement.” 

AUTOCAR GAME CHANGER - The Alfa Romeo Giulia is a true game changer for the brand.

• Alfa Romeo Giulia named a ‘Game Changer’ at 2017 Autocar Awards
• Lauded for its ‘incredible performance and exciting handling’
• The Giulia is available to buy now from £29,550 OTR

The Alfa Romeo Giulia has been named a ‘Game Changer’ at the 2017 Autocar Awards as it has signalled ‘a complete transformation for one of the most loved names in motoring’.

Mark Tisshaw, Editor of Autocar, commented: “This is not only the most competitive Alfa Romeo saloon since the last Giulia was launched more than half a century ago but, crucially for anyone with Alfisti blood lurking in their veins, it’s the most likeable, too. With its incredible performance and exciting handling, the Giulia is everything you’d want an Alfa Romeo to be.” 

Developed by the best engineers, designers and stylists within FCA, the new Giulia embodies the core elements that have made Alfa Romeo one of the world's best-loved automotive brands: Distinctive Italian design; innovative powertrains, perfect weight distribution, unique technical solutions and the best weight-to-power ratio. 

Collecting the award at the event in the Silverstone Wing, Ashley Andrew, Managing Director FCA UK, remarked; “The Giulia has marked a turning point for Alfa Romeo, signalling a new era for the company where the driver is back at the heart of everything we do. Its engaging drive, five star NCAP rating, with highest ever recorded adult occupancy score, and impressive residual values has echoed across the brand, bolstering buyer confidence. The success of the Giulia has allowed us to expand the range with the introduction of the 280hp Veloce, bridging the gap between the standard Giulia and the Quadrifoglio. It also lays the ground for the introduction of Alfa Romeo’s first ever SUV- the Stelvio – due for launch later this year.” 

Autocar says that its ‘Game Changers’ are cars that ‘bring new, higher standards to their classes, or because they defy conventions to benefit buyers.’ Of the Giulia, Autocar says: “The Giulia is a riveting, idiosyncratic and striking entrant into a class usually defined by an understated brand of superiority.”

AUTOCAR GAME CHANGER - Ralph Speth takes the top prize for his work at JLR.

The CEO of Jaguar Land Rover, Ralf Speth, has been awarded the top prize at the 2017 Autocar Awards, held in Silverstone’s iconic Wing building and headline-sponsored by premium tyre brand Vredestein.

Speth was presented with the Issigonis Trophy, named after the creator of the legendary Mini, in recognition of his contribution to Jaguar Land Rover’s remarkable transformation following the sale of the brands to Tata Motors in 2008.

The Issigonis Trophy is presented to the individual who has contributed the most to the health, excellence and competitiveness of the European motor industry. Together, the British luxury marques now constitute Britain's largest automotive manufacturer, with the company’s three UK manufacturing plants producing more than 544,000 cars in 2016.

Design supremo Peter Schreyer received the Sturmey Award for his work across the Hyundai-Kia Motor Group, which has included the continual evolution of both the Hyundai and Kia product ranges, in his role as president and chief design officer. Named after Autocar’s founding editor, Henry Sturmey, the award was created to salute innovation and achievement in the motor industry.

Joining Schreyer’s success was Kia UK’s CEO and president, Paul Philpott, who took an Outstanding UK Leader award as the brand continues to achieve record sales following its 25th year in the UK. 

Mike Flewitt, CEO of McLaren Automotive, picked up the inaugural Editor’s Award, for his impact on the company’s success over the past year. Thomas Ingenlath, head of design at Volvo Cars, picked up the Design Hero award – and to celebrate, he showed off a unique Volvo V90, specified to his own brief. 

Tobias Moers of Mercedes-AMG took the Engineering Hero gong, while Alan Gow was named Motorsport Hero for his work both as British Touring Car Championship director and for the Motor Sport Association.

Other industry professionals honoured included Mazda UK managing director Jeremy Thomson and Malcolm Wilson, whose M-Sport business is one of the world's leading private motorsport teams. They joined Paul Philpott in receiving Outstanding UK Leader awards.

Accompanying their respective teams at the Silverstone ceremony, the very best new and used cars were out in force. Nominated by Autocar readers, the Volkswagen Golf GTI was named the most influential car in motoring history.

Not to be outshone, many other ground-breaking cars of today also joined the GTI in the spotlight, as six were named Autocar Game Changers, a category sponsored by Vredestein Tyres – one of the world’s leading tyre manufacturers with a history spanning 100 years.

The winning game changers have been named as the Alfa Romeo Giulia, Aston Martin DB11, Tesla Model X, Renault Zoe, Toyota C-HR and Seat Ateca.

Accolades were handed out for the Porsche Panamera, Bentley Bentayga and McLaren 720S for achieving five-star reviews. The Innovation Award went to the Lamborghini Huracán Performante for its aero-vectoring rear wing, while the Britain’s Best Driver’s Car award went to two cars at the opposite end of the spectrum: the Porsche 911 R and Ford Fiesta ST200. Finally, the Mini Roadster picked up Used Car Hero, awarded in association with Warranty Direct, as named by Autocar’s used car expert, James Ruppert. 

Autocar editor Mark Tisshaw said: “The Autocar Awards unite the industry through a passion for building, selling and driving the very best vehicles on the planet, and the winners named here are a testament to the talent that drives Britain’s flourishing automotive industry.

“Congratulations must go to the winner of the Issigonis Trophy, Ralf Speth, the dedication of whom has played a special part in the evolution of two of the most iconic and cherished brands into the largest automotive force in the UK. What’s most impressive is that this staggering progress that has taken place in less than a decade.”

Prof. Dr. Ralf Speth KBE FREng, said: “I am absolutely delighted to be given this very prestigious award, and I would like to thank the editors of Autocar magazine deeply. Autocar’s standing remains the same as it has ever done: it is a hugely influential title with a long history in this great industry.

“This award is something that I cannot accept just on my own. It is an honour I accept on behalf of all the incredible people who work at Jaguar Land Rover. Together, we have been on quite a journey over the last few years, rapidly expanding our workforce, recruiting and nurturing the best engineers and focusing on innovation, design and customer satisfaction.

“We are the UK’s biggest R&D investor and are always striving to be better than the best. It is a privilege to be leading such an organisation. I expected to do this job for two years, but now it’s seven and I’m still enjoying it. I still find it amazing, contributing to this thing and helping shape it. Thank you, Autocar, for recognising Jaguar Land Rover’s achievements. Here’s to the next few years.”

Autocar Awards Winners 2017

ISSIGONIS TROPHY

Ralf Speth, CEO, Jaguar Land Rover

Awarded to the individual who has contributed the most to the health, excellence and competitiveness of the European motor industry.

STURMEY AWARD

Peter Schreyer, president and chief design officer, Hyundai-Kia Motor Group

Named after Autocar’s founding editor, Henry Sturmey, this award salutes innovation and achievement in the motor industry.

EDITOR’S AWARD

Mike Flewitt, CEO, McLaren Automotive

A new accolade for 2017, the Editor’s Award goes to the person Autocar believes has made the biggest impact on their company's success over the past year.

FIVE-STAR CARS

Porsche Panamera

Bentley Bentayga Diesel

McLaren 720S

READER’S CHAMPION

VW Golf GTI - most influential car in motoring history

DESIGN HERO

Thomas Ingenlath, design vice-president, Volvo Cars

ENGINEERING HERO

Tobias Moers, CEO, AMG-Mercedes

MOTORSPORT HERO

Alan Gow, series director and administrator, BTCC

INNOVATION AWARD

Lamborghini Huracán Performante and its aero-vectoring rear wing

BRITAIN’S BEST DRIVER’S CARS

Porsche 911 R

Ford Fiesta ST200

AUTOCAR’S USED CAR HERO SPONSORED BY WARRANTY DIRECT

Mini Roadster

AUTOCAR’S OUTSTANDING UK LEADERS

Jeremy Thomson, managing director, Mazda UK

Paul Philpott, CEO and president, Kia UK

Malcolm Wilson, managing director, M-Sport

AUTOCAR’S GAME CHANGERS, SPONSORED BY VREDESTEIN

Alfa Romeo Giulia

Aston Martin DB11

Tesla Model X

Renault Zoe

Toyota C-HR

Seat Ateca

AUTOCAR GAME CHANGER - The Seat Ateca takes an award as it moves the goal posts for the brand.

• Autocar honours the new SEAT Ateca in its 2017 awards as a “game changer”
• Judges rate the Ateca as instantly the best in its class, outperforming well-established rivals including the Nissan Qashqai
• Ateca at the heart of SEAT’s brand transformation, leading a massive new product offensive that will also see the showroom launch of  the All-new Ibiza in July and the new Arona compact crossover a few months later
• Ateca range continues to offer more with introduction of new FR sports versions

The SEAT Ateca’s trophy shelf has been extended yet again, this time to make room for a “Game Changer” prize in the 2017 Autocar Awards.

It’s one of a select number of honours Autocar presents to cars introduced in the past year that have “set new standards or defied convention by turning the established order on its head”.

That’s certainly true of the Ateca, SEAT’s first SUV, which in double-quick time has established itself as a winning prospect among the motoring media and the UK’s discerning car buyers alike. The positive opinions of Autocar’s road testers have been borne out by unprecedented sales figures for a new SEAT model.

Mark Tisshaw, Autocar Editor, said:  “The whole mainstream industry is now making a family SUV, but no-one is making a better one than SEAT with its Ateca.

“This is no mean feat, given the company has never made one before in its history. It's also unsurprising, as SEAT is on a roll with good cars at the moment. The Ateca caps a remarkable turnaround for them.”

The award follows the verdict voiced by Autocar’s enthusiastic 4.5-star road test, which declared the Ateca to be “an assured accomplishment, instantly establishing its place in a popular segment, while also surpassing second and third-generation rivals. It moved the Ateca straight to the top of its class, ahead of such notable rivals as the Nissan Qashqai and Renault Kadjar.

Richard Harrison, SEAT UK Director, accepted the award at a prestigious ceremony hosted this evening at Silverstone. He said:  “It is great to see the Ateca being recognised for setting a new benchmark in the highly competitive SUV market. It’s playing a big role in the transformation of SEAT in the UK too, being the most successful new car launch in our history, and attracting significant numbers of new customers to our brand.

“The product development team in Barcelona are doing an incredible job, which is why we are equally excited about the arrival of our All-new Ibiza and the prospect of Arona taking us into yet another part of the market later in 2017. Together with the recently launched New Leon, our award-winning product range keeps on growing, and more and more UK car buyers are now discovering how SEAT offers a desirable and fresh alternative to more traditional car brands.”

The Ateca line-up continues to expand to reach an even wider customer base. New sporty FR versions are the latest addition, available to order from July for delivery from August.