This is the facelifted Peugeot 301 sedan, which the French automaker says has been developed for markets that yearn for “a status-enhancing three-box saloon” with an array of features and engine options. In reality, it shares much with the Citroën C-Elysee.
And, no, the 301 is not likely to come to South Africa any time soon, seeing as it’s currently built in left-hand-drive form only.
A couple of years back, Peugeot Citroën SA admitted that it was searching for a partner for local production of a right-hand-drive 301, but these plans have clearly fallen through.
In terms of design, the refreshed 301 falls in line with the current 308, although it takes somewhat more of a basic approach. LED headlamps and fog-lamps are present and correct up front, while 16-inch alloys sit on either end of the 2,65 m wheelbase.
The interior is similarly basic, and the model pictured here does without a multi-function steering wheel. That said, an optional infotainment system is available, bringing a 7,0-inch touchscreen to the party. All four windows, too, are electrically powered. The boot, meanwhile, measures a hefty 506 dm3.
There are four engine options on offer (two petrol and two diesel) and two transmissions (five-speed manual and six-speed auto). Petrol models include a 1,2-litre PureTech 82, a 1,6-litre VTi 115 and the same 1,6-litre VTi 115 but fitted with a six-speed EAT6 automatic gearbox.
Diesel derivatives include a 1,6-litre BlueHDi 100 and 1,6-litre HDi 92, both mated to five-speed manual transmissions.
The Peugeot 301 is assembled in Vigo, Spain. ABS, ESP, EBA, a tyre-pressure monitoring system and IsoFix are all fitted as standard.
