Ford’s innovative Focus ECOnetic has won Whatgreencar.com’s increasingly pertinent Car of the Year award 2008.

The 1.6-litre diesel model was launched earlier this year in reaction to the importance that the frugality factor and ‘green’ credentials are beginning to play when purchasing a car.

The ECOnetic Focus gets a lower grille, revised bumpers and low rolling resistant tyres compared to the existing model, while a reconfigured engine also helps it emit just 115g/km of CO2, making it the cleanest car in its class – including Toyota’s Prius hybrid.

Rivalling Volkswagen’s similar ‘Bluemotion’ economy-conscious range, the ECOnetic methods will be rolled out over various models in the Ford range, with the Mondeo and the new Fiesta also set to get the treatment in the coming months.

Indeed, the pioneering Volkswagen Polo Bluemotion also fared well amongst the six independent judges, although it was considered the Focus, with its more involving driving experience and added practicality, was the most rounded green option. Priced at £16,845 for the 1.6-litre TDCi model, the ECOnetic is just £250 more than the Style model it is based on.

Roelant de Waard, Ford of Britain chairman and managing director, said: "Drivers want to be green but without giving up comfort and performance or paying a high price. Ford ECOnetics answer that demand and I'm delighted that Whatgreencar? has recognised this."

Elsewhere, the panel also recommended the Polo Bluemotion and the BMW 118i, the latter of which uses the manufacturer’s Efficient Dynamics modifications.