Making its UK debut at the show when prices will be announced was the all-new Fiesta, which goes on sale in the spring when prices will be announced.

But what has been largely unheralded is that it is expected to be available to Motability Scheme customers in spring 2002 through the company's Mobility and General Information Centre, based at Cellular Operations in Swindon.

Disabled drivers and their carers will appreciate the increased internal dimensions of the all-new Ford Fiesta, which is 49mm wider, 97mm taller and 89mm longer than the current model.

Getting into and out of the car is a lot easier thanks to larger rear doors.

Door openings and storage capacity has also been improved with the addition of 14 per cent more luggage space.

An adjustable height driver's seat is new across the New Fiesta range.

Other mobility-friendly features include power-assisted steering and central locking.

More good news, the semi-automatic trans-mission, which can be driven by holders of both full and automatic only licences is expected to follow shortly after the launch of the manual version.

Representatives from MAGIC, Ford's free telephone information service for disabled and elderly motorists (0800 240 241) were at the show, together with a specially adapted Ford Focus fitted with hand controls and a wheelchair hoist for disabled drivers.

As well as being roomier than its predecessor, the all new Fiesta will feature three new engines, each targeted to deliver fuel economy improvements of up to 10 per cent across the range.

The new 1.4-litre Duratorq TDCi is a compact lightweight, aluminium turbodiesel powerplant featuring second generation common-rail injection technology and returning 62.8 mpg in the combined cycle.

There is also a new DOHC engine, the Duratec 16V developed from that fitted in the Focus; an 80 PS 1.4 litre and a 100 PS 1.6-litre variant.