FORD PUMA 1.0 Ecoboost Hybrid 155 ST-Line

CAR OF THE YEAR AWARDS 2022 - BEST SMALL SUV

WE LIKE

Massive boot capacity Great performance Agile handling Firm yet comfortable ride Good value for money Low running costs

The hat-trick gets its name from the headwear cricketers used to be awarded after taking three wickets in TH consecutive balls - a com rare and outstanding achievement. And the Ford Puma has now managed the automotive equivalent by winning this category for the third year in a row.

Like many Fords, it's great to drive and feels super-nimble whether you're flying down your favorite country lane or merely scooting around town. Crucially, though, you don't pay the price for that with a bone-shaking ride. Yes, you're more aware of lumps and bumps than you would be in a Skoda Kamiq, but the upside of this firmer edge is that the Puma is unlikely to leave your passengers feeling queasy as you drive along undulating roads.

If you go for our recommended engine, the 1.0 Ecoboost Hybrid 155 petrol, the Puma also manages to mix strong performance with surprising efficiency. It's helped by mild-hybrid technology, which provides a small amount of electrical assistance-not enough for the car to run on electricity alone, but sufficient for a useful boost in low-rev pulling power and improving fuel economy by reducing the strain on the engine. Usefully, the battery for this is topped up by capturing the energy that would normally be lost during braking, so you never need to the plugin.

The driving position is another strength. The Puma places you fairly high up, and the front seats offer excellent support, especially the sports seats fitted to ST-Line models.