[6][7][8] In December 2001, the Storia/Sirion/Duet was facelifted; the front grille and bumper were changed for a sportier appearance and in some markets the silver accents on the sides were removed (retained for the GTvi model in Australia).

The dash and interior were redesigned, incorporating more storage spaces, easier to use controls and higher quality trim.

The trim levels in the European market were the standard Sirion and the Sirion+ which added air conditioning, central locking and other equipment.

At the time, the GTvi model had the most powerful naturally aspirated engine available in its class, developing 75 kW (101 hp; 102 PS) at 7,500 rpm.

This was an electronically controlled 4-speed automatic transmission with sequential mode activated by a dashboard switch, then gear selection by buttons on the steering wheel.

This model has a four-wheel drive layout with front and rear limited-slip differentials and is powered by a JC-DET 713 cc engine producing 88 kW (118 hp; 120 PS).