Ford's Fiesta became the most popular car in Europe in March

Figures from industry analyst firm JATO Dynamics said that Ford's Fiesta model has ousted the VOLKSWAGEN Golf, topped the list of most popular cars in Europe. According to JATO, it is the first time in a year that the Golf has dropped from top of the most bought car list.

The survey found there has been a particular growth in car sales in Germany and Italy, where scrappage schemes have been introduced by the governments.

"Germany and Italy are big markets for new cars and we're really seeing the commercial benefits brought about by the new incentives," said David Di Girolamo, head of JATO.

He added: "We will track the markets with interest as it will be important to understand if this is a short-term reaction by consumers or if it will have a prolonged effect on the market."

The results could encourage more people to buy used cars from Ford. The company has recently revealed its used car sector is performing well.

A recent sale of its new Ka and Fiesta models in the used car market saw the vehicles sold for an average of 85 per cent of their original cost.

The Ford Fiesta picked up the Car of the Year for 2009 and the Best Supermini accolades at the What Car? awards recently.