Peugeot Gives Its 301 Budget Sedan a Mid-Cycle Makeover

The least desirable Peugeot just became a little more desirable

The Peugeot 301 and its Citroën C-Elysée alter ego have been around since 2012, so the time is right for a refresh.

Four years and 360,000 units later, the 301 is the first of the two models to get a styling and equipment upgrade.

The makeover consists of applying the brand's latest design cues to the B-segment sedan, with updates including refreshed headlights and taillights inspired by those on the 3008 and 4008, LED daytime running lights, a new grille, restyled bumpers, as well as a more muscular bonnet.

Peugeot has rejuvenated the 301's interior as well, adding a large 7-inch touch screen the automaker describes as fast and accurate. The display shows images from the reversing camera and the 3D TomTom navigation system. It also has Mirror Screen triple play connectivity.

The engine lineup remains the same and includes a 72 PS 1.2-liter PureTech turbocharged three-cylinder gasoline engine, a 115 PS 1.6-liter VTi four-cylinder gasoline unit, as well as 92 PS 1.6-liter e-HDi and 1.6-liter 100 PS BlueHDi diesels. The only new addition is the availability of the latest generation EAT6 automatic transmission for the 1.6L VTi unit.