The new Ford Fiesta Metal special edition 134PS hot hatch is in the top 10 of motoring magazine Auto Express’ Performance Cars of the Year 2011. Ford’s supermini ranks seventh amongst 30 finalists, rated higher than entries from Bentley, Porsche, Aston Martin, Maserati and Lotus.

Auto Express motoring writer, Luke Madden said: “The Fiesta Metal evokes the spirit of an old-school hot hatch. It’s simple, lightweight and has an engine that doesn’t produce peak power until 6,700rpm. For such an affordable hatch to make such a big impression is a real achievement. Few cars provide as much enjoyment as the Fiesta.

“Every time we drive the supermini we’re reminded of the magic Ford’s engineers have sprinkled on the chassis.