THE 1.6-litre THP (Turbo High Pressure) turbocharged petrol engine which powers Peugeot's 207 CC, GT and soon-to-be-released GTi models won the 2007 International Engine of the Year Award in the 1.4-litre to 1.8-litre category.

Judged by a panel of 62 renowned motoring journalists from around the world, the International Engine of the Year Awards are some of the automotive industry's most sought-after accolades.

To determine the winning engine the judges drive all the nominated power plants in the latest cars and assess the engine's driveability, performance, economy, and refinement.

With no fewer than 71 engines nominated, the 1.4-litre to 1.8-litre category is a key battleground as the compact and super mini sectors continue to grow. The final result, however, saw the 207's THP engine come away as a clear winner with a total of 273 points. The THP engine is a joint development between PSA Peugeot Citroën and the BMW Group.