With its sights set mainly on emerging markets, Peugeot has introduced a new compact sedan named the 301 in advance of its world premiere at the Paris Auto Show in September.
The new 301 will be assembled in Peugeot’s factory in Vigo, Spain, and will go on sale from November in Turkey and then into Central and Eastern Europe, Russia, Ukraine, Greece, The Middle East, Gulf and African States, as well as in select Latin American markets.
The French firm says that the 301 has been designed to appeal to customers looking for an economical but modern compact saloon and that it was developed to adapt to all climates and conditions of use.
The 301 is 4,440mm long and rides on a 2,650 mm wheelbase offering a class-leading boot volume of 506 liters. Both the exterior and interior design of the saloon draw their inspiration from Peugeot’s latest models such as the mid-size 508 and the 208 supermini.
Peugeot’s rival to the upcoming Skoda Rapid and Seat Toledo models will become the second car in its range after the 208 to be offered with the brand’s new 1.2-liter VTi petrol engine delivering 70hp (71PS) and linked to either a manual gearbox or an automated manual transmission (EGC).
Other engine options include a 91hp (92PS) 1.6-liter HDi turbo diesel matched to a manual, and a 114hp (115PS) 1.6-liter petrol matched to either a manual or automated manual gearbox.
The French carmakers says that, even though the 301 is a budget car, it will offer many comfort equipment features (depending on the model), such as electronic air conditioning, MP3 audio system with Bluetooth hands-free kit and USB connection, remote opening of the boot and rear parking assistance.
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