PEUGEOT'S new fleet favourite, the 307 (pictured left), has won the title of European Car of the Year 2002, beating the Renault Laguna into second place and Fiat Stilo in third.

The 307 was the overall favourite of the 55 judges, all motoring writers from 21 countries across Europe, and also beat four other finalists - the Citroen C5, Jaguar X-type, Honda Civic and MINI - from a total of 29 nominated cars.

Peugeot UK managing director Tod Evans said: 'When we developed the 307, we knew that great things would be expected of it. We are thrilled that it has not merely fulfilled, but exceeded those expectations, and are very proud that it has been awarded this title.'