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On the eve of its Australian debut, the Peugeot 307 has been voted European Car of the Year 2002. Scheduled for release in December, Australian buyers will soon be able to enjoy the 307 in thee model guises; a 1.6-litre, a 2.0-litre and a 2.0-litre Turbo Diesel.
The 307 features outstanding levels of equipment, such as six air-bags, ABS with an Electronic Brake Force Distributor, electric windows and mirrors, climate control, radio/CD, remote central locking and engine immobiliser to name a few.
Now in its 39th year, the judging panel for the award, comprised of 55 specialist motoring journalists representing 21 European countries, favoured the 307 over six other short listed models, chosen from an initial line-up of 29 new cars.
Peugeot feels the award is recognition of its boldness in creating a car with an innovative design and a strong personality, and with class leading levels of safety and standard equipment, it will set a new benchmark in its segment. It is the third such award for Peugeot, following the 504 in 1969 and the 405 in 1988.
Less than seven months after its European launch, customers have already taken to the 307s originality. To date, in hatchback form alone, 250,000 vehicles have been sold in more than 90 countries throughout the world.
The commercial success is supported by a successful manufacturing base which has produced nearly 270,000 cars in the French factories at Sochaux and Mulhouse. Daily production of the 307 is now at 2000 vehicles, following an increase in production in the first half of the year.
Managing Director of Peugeot Automobiles Australia, Mr. Rob Dommerson, has welcomed the news. "With the imminent Australian release of the 307, and pricing to be announced next week, we are thrilled by this acknowledgement from the European motoring press".
"At Peugeot we were always sure that the 307s dynamic character and quality finish would ensure its success. Like the European press, we are confident that our Australian customers will also be impressed by this new model".
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