Ford wins best car, truck awards at auto show

DETROIT: Ford won both car and truck of the year awards at the North American International Auto Show on Monday for its 2010 Fusion Hybrid and Transit Connect models.

The awards are made by a panel of 49 automobile journalists who vote for best the vehicle of the year in the car and truck categories, taking into account innovation, design, safety, handling, driver satisfaction and price.

Ford touted its Fusion Hybrid as the most fuel efficient mid-size sedan in the US market, rated to get an estimated 41 miles per gallon in the city and 36 miles per gallon on the highway.

The Transit Connect, a truck developed with small business owners as its target market, boasts double the fuel economy of full-size vans, ample cargo space and maneuverability in crowded urban areas.

To qualify for the award, the vehicle must be either all new or substantially changed from the previous model.