At the recent 84th Geneva Motor Show, the new Peugeot 308 was crowned with the prestigious title of 2014 Car of the Year. Reflecting the interests and tastes of 58 journalists from 22 European countries, the jury delivered its verdict on the strong line-up of seven finalist pre-selected models.

The new 308 is the fourth Peugeot model to be distinguished by the Car of the Year award. It comes after the 307 (2002), the 405 (1988) and the 504 (1969).

The 2014 Car of the Year title represents the most prestigious recognition for the 308, which embodies the brand’s values of excellence in terms of its design, elegant and dynamic, efficient concept based on an advanced approach to weight reduction, and driving experience with its innovative instruments and controls playing a part.

Sales success has already been achieved: the new 308 is also contributing towards the brand’s move upmarket, confirmed by the mix of the orders, 48 per cent of which are for the upper trim levels three and four in its range.

The new 308 range is now also expanded by the introduction of a second body style: the 308 SW, a classy and spacious estate which, like the hatchback, takes its name from its predecessor. To the nine engines available at launch, Peugeot has added the exceptional PureTech 3-cylinder 1.2 e-THP 130hp turbo petrol engine as well as three BlueHDi engines, including the new BlueHDi 1.6 litre 120 hp version with CO2 emissions of just 82g/km, a record in the segment.

Peugeot is represented in Malta by Michael Attard Limited. Established in 1949, the company is now one of the oldest fran-chises representing Automobiles Peugeot outside France.