Ford has announced an average price rise of 2.7% across its range - the fourth time it has raised prices this year.

The manufacturer puts the blame for the increase on the strength of the pound against the euro - the latter being the currency it buys its cars, vans and components from Ford of Europe in.

The average rise of 2.7% applies to all orders received after November 30. Ka, Fiesta, Focus, C-Max and Kuga models go up in price by between £250 and £500, while S-Max and Galaxy models increase by £600. On the commercial vehicle front, Fiestavan increases by £400, Transit Connect and Ranger by £500 and the one-tonne Transit models go up by £600. Prices for two-tonne Transits remain unchanged.

Ford of Britain managing director Nigel sharp said: "To combat the continuing weakness of the pound against the euro, Ford has reduced costs across its entire UK business, including personnel reductions in its central operations and across its dealer network.

"However, price increases are still required to maintain a viable business and to recover relative cost increases caused by the weakness of the pound over an extended period."