Ford Fiesta retains eco marathon title

A FORD Fiesta has been crowned the winner of the ALD Automotive/Shell Fuelsave MPG Marathon for the second year running.

The 1.6-litre diesel Fiesta Econetic achieved 88.69mpg over 339.3 miles on what some observers say was the toughest course yet for the annual event.

Hills, bad weather and heavy traffic were all obstacles faced by the 46 competitors who set out from Tankersley Manor, near Sheffield.

However, the passenger Fiesta, driven by Nick Chapman and Rosemary Homer from Leicestershire County Council, was put in the shade by a Fiesta Sport Van in the hands of BBC Transport Correspondent Paul Clifton and his son, Doug.

The Sport Van averaged 108.82mpg over 362.9 miles, meaning just 3.3 gallons of diesel were consumed.

The two Fiestas share the same 94bhp diesel engine with automatic engine stop-start technology. They also both feature lowered suspension and a special rear under-tray for greater aerodynamic efficiency. Low rolling resistance tyres and special wheel trims complete the package.

By Press Association reporter