Retail customers buying the new Ford Fiesta has increased by almost a fifth from 60% to 80%.

Almost 11,500 models have been sold since it went on sale October 1, with more than 9,000 going to retail buyers.

Zetec trim remains the most popular taking more than half of sales.

The most popular colour has been black (21%) followed by the new bright pink, called hot magenta, accounting for 15%.

Mark Simpson, marketing director, Ford of Britain, said: "Dealers are telling us that people are coming out of their Peugeot 207s and Renault Clios to get into new Fiesta.

"We expect to attract even more sales from business and economy-minded drivers next year when our Econetic model goes on sale."