Peugeot’s recently-launched 307 has scooped the European automotive industry’s most prestigious award - the title of ‘Car of the Year 2002’.

The 307 was the overall favourite of the 55 specialist judges, all senior motoring journalists from 21 countries across Europe. It took the title in the face of stiff opposition from six other finalists short-listed from 29 initial nominations.

The judges were given extensive access to each car, driving them on roads and test tracks over a period of several months. All aspects of the cars were evaluated, including performance, comfort and convenience, safety, build quality, design and handling.

The Peugeot 307 is one of the most technologically-advanced and highly-specified cars in its class, and boasts exceptional standards of safety and security combined with class-leading levels of space and equipment. Its sleek lines disguise the fact that it is actually one of the biggest cars in its class, with outstanding head and leg-room. The 307 is also Peugeot’s most environmentally-friendly car ever. Recycling and ease and safety of dismantling were prime considerations in the choice of materials and the construction of the vehicle.

The Car of the Year competition is now in its 39^th year, and is internationally recognised as one of the most prestigious events in the automotive calendar. Previous Peugeot cars to have won include the 504 in 1969, and the 405 in 1988.

Tod Evans, Managing Director of Peugeot said: "When we developed the 307, we knew that great things would be expected of it, as the successor to the best-selling 306. We are thrilled that it has not merely fulfilled, but exceeded those expectations, and are very proud that it has been awarded this significant title."

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For further information, please contact Maureen Barnes in the Peugeot Press Office on 024 7688 4212 or visit our press website at www.peugeotpress.co.uk

Notes to the Editor:

• The Peugeot 307 went on sale across Europe in mid 2001, and is now available in 90 countries worldwide.
• To date, 270,000 have been built at the company’s Mulhouse and Sochaux production facilities in France.
• It achieved a UK market share of 2.01% in October, just four months after its launch. 20,000 units have been sold.
• In 2002 the 307 will continue to increase sales with the introduction of further model derivatives and will aim for 550,000 sales internationally, far exceeding the best results obtained by the marque so far.
• Prices for the Peugeot 307 range from £10,860 for the Style 1.4 litre petrol model to £16,660 for the 5 door Dturbo 2.0 litre HDi 110 with FAP.

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