Fired Up Again: Peugeot's E-208 GTi Reinvents the Cult Classic Hot Hatch
Revitalized Peugeot E-208 GTi: Iconic Compact Vehicle Makes a Remarkable Return
Petrolheads have a soft spot for the legendary Peugeot 205 GTi, a cult classic hot hatch. Guess what? It's back, baby! But this time, it's all-electric and keeps the environment in mind.
With the current generation of the iconic Peugeot 208 reaching its end, Peugeot is going out with a bang, teasing us with the return of the GTi version, which will be based on the electric 208. Before the 2027 model debuts, this is the manufacturer's final shout-out.
The GTi badge is back, harking to the glory days of the 205 series that lasted over 12 years in the '80s and '90s. The last GTi from Peugeot was available from 2013 to 2018 in the first generation of the 208.
Redefining the Classic Look
Unlike the original three-door 205 GTi, the new 208 GTi comes as a five-door model. The design features a nod to the past with sporty accents but with some refreshed elements. The front and rear tracks have been widened by 6 cm and 3 cm respectively, and the vehicle sits 3 cm lower with some attention-grabbing 18-inch lightweight alloy wheels and Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires. Larger front brake discs measure 355 mm, emphasizing the car's performance intentions. At the rear, you'll notice a black diffuser integrated with an LED rear fog light, a striking contrast against the red body.
Under the hood, the E-208 GTi shares roots with the Abarth 600e Scorpionissima from the Stellantis conglomerate. This electric marvel delivers 280 kW (approximately 375 PS) and 345 Nm of torque to the front wheels, with a limited-slip differential thrown in for good measure. The vehicle sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.7 seconds, although it is electronically limited to 180 km/h.
A GTi-inspired Interior
Inside, the 208 GTi takes inspiration from its GTi ancestors with red accents, a flat-bottomed steering wheel bearing the GTi logo and Alcantara trim, and sports seats with a mix of perforated leather and Alcantara. Although the seats feature aggressive side bolsters, Peugeot guarantees everyday comfort.
While the battery capacity is the same 54 kWh as in the standard model, increased performance reduces the range to about 350 km. Peugeot has yet to reveal the price, but anticipate it to be slightly lower than the Abarth's current €49,000 tag. Look forward to the E-208 GTi to grace the roads sometime later this year.
Source: ntv.de, Mario Hommen, sp-x
- Peugeot Models
- Stellantis
- French Automakers
- Compact Cars
Enrichment Data:
Specifications
- Motor & Performance
- Power: 280 hp (375 PS)
- Torque: 345 Nm (255 lb-ft)
- Acceleration: 0–100 km/h (0–62 mph) in 5.7 seconds
- Top Speed: 180 km/h (112 mph)
- Battery & Range
- Battery Capacity: 54 kWh (gross, CATL cells)
- Range: Up to 350 km (approximately)
- Chassis & Handling
- Drivetrain: Single front-mounted motor, limited-slip differential
- Chassis Tweaks: Widened tracks, lowered ride, upgraded suspension with hydraulic bump stops, and a rear anti-roll bar for better cornering stability
- Tires: Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2
- Styling
- Exterior: Aggressive design with a widened stance, new spoiler, and rear diffuser
- GTi Badge: Return of the GTi badge, signaling sporty intentions and heritage
Pricing details are yet to be revealed, but the E-208 GTi promises to blend electric mobility with the flair of the hot hatch, offering brisk acceleration, agile handling, and a distinctive look.
- The French car manufacturer, Peugeot, is redefining the classic hot hatch with the E-208 GTi, an electric spin on the cult classic Peugeot 205 GTi.
- The automotive industry, particularly the transportation sector, is witnessing a shift towards electric vehicles, as demonstrated by Peugeot's E-208 GTi.
- The return of the GTi badge, harking back to the glory days of the 205 series, signifies a blend of finance and lifestyle choices for the peugeot enthusiasts in the industry.
- As technology advances, transportation is no longer just a means of movement. The E-208 GTi from Peugeot, with its sleek design and powerful performance, represents the intersection of automotive excellence and lifestyle preferences.
