Ford has announced the launch of its new B-Max model, which it claims will be right on-trend with European buyers in 2012.

Set to come on to the market in autumn, the B-Max is targeted at Europe's growing number of consumers who are concerned with fuel efficiency and the environment, with the company claiming 40 per cent of large car owners are now looking to downsize to save fuel and costs.

Henry Mason of global trend experts trendwatching.com commented: "European consumers are mature, urban and sophisticated. Naturally these 'citysumers' want cars that fit into their flexible, compact lifestyles."

He added that the status of owning the biggest, most expensive or fastest vehicle has taken a back seat in recent years to concerns regarding sustainability and economy.

The new 2012 B-Max features Ford's one-litre EcoBoost engine, which the company claims offers 20 per cent better fuel efficiency than other petrol engines in its class.

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Posted by Brendan Saunders