TOYOYA'S Yaris has scooped Europe's most prestigious motoring accolade - the Car of the Year award.

The supermini, which beat off competition from the Fiat Multipla, Vauxhall Zafira and Skoda Fabia, and Rover 75, was voted first choice by 19 of the 56 jury members.

Patrick Fuller, the editor of Autocar magazine which sponsors the award in Britain, said: "Since its launch in March this year, the Yaris has set new standards for small cars. It offers unrivalled interior packaging, a dynamic chassis, exceptional fuel economy and fiercely competitive pricing. Winning the Car of the Year award is a tremendous achievement. A quality judging panel has given the Yaris the ultimate seal of approval and the award is recognised and respected by new car buyers across the country."

The Yaris notched up 344 points to win ahead of the Fiat Multipla on 325. In third place was the Vauxhall Zafira on 265, fourth was the Skoda Fabia on 245 and in fifth place was the Cowley-built Rover 75 on 221.

Story date: Wednesday 17 November

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