PEUGEOT'S latest 307 has scooped the European motor industry's top award Car of the Year for 2002.

The 307 was the overall favourite of the 55 judges, from 21 countries across Europe, who evaluated the cars over several months.

From 29 nominations, the Peugeot was chosen from a shortlist of six finalists.

The judges considered performance, comfort and convenience, safety, build quality, design and handling.

The 307 range starts with a 1.4-litre petrol model at £10,860, rising to £16,660 for the diesel Dturbo 2.0-litre.