Fired-Up Rebirth: The Peugeot E-208 GTi - The Legendary Hot Hatch Rises Again, Raring to Go
Iconic Hot Hatchback Peugeot E-208 GTi Makes Triumphant Return as Electrified Performer
The Peugeot 205 GTi is a legendary hot hatch car and has a die-hard fanbase in the world of automotive enthusiasts. It's back with a bang, now in an electric avatar that boasts more power yet fewer emissions, all the while losing none of its emotional appeal.
Peugeot's compact car model, the 208, is nearing the end of its life cycle, and before it makes way for the 2027 model, Peugeot is making a bold statement with the return of a GTi version, electrified this time.
The GTi badge symbolizes a rich tradition at Peugeot, with the 205 series offered in various GTi versions for over a decade in the 80s and 90s. The last GTi from the French automaker was available between 2013 and 2018 in the first generation of the 208.
The Return of a Legend: The New Peugeot E-208 GTi
With its origins tracing back to the iconic 205 GTi, the new E-208 GTi is no less than a rebirth. Unlike its three-door predecessor, the new 208 GTi is a five-door offering. Visually, it retains the sporty characteristics of the historical model while incorporating subtle modifications.
The car sits 3 cm lower than its counterparts and boasts widened tracks and larger brake discs at the front to underscore its sporty aspirations. A set of 18-inch lightweight alloy wheels with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires lend it a racy look. The rear end sports a black diffuser with integrated LED rear fog light for added contrast.
Under the hood, the E-208 GTi shares DNA with the Abarth 600e Scorpionissima. The Peugeot derivative dishes out 207 kW/280 PS and 345 Nm of torque, and sends the power to the front wheels through a limited-slip differential. The sprint to 100 km/h takes 5.7 seconds, though the top speed is electronically governed to 180 km/h.
GTi Magic Inside
The interior of the E-208 GTi harks back to the glory days of GTi models with its red accents, flat-bottomed steering wheel adorned with the GTi logo, and sports seats covered in a combination of perforated leather and Alcantara. The side bolsters promise everyday comfort, despite their aggressive appearance.
The battery pack is identical to the standard model at 54 kWh. Owing to the higher power output, the range drops to approximately 350 km. Peugeot hasn't disclosed the pricing details yet, but considering the technologically related Abarth is priced around 49,000 euros, the E-208 GTi is expected to come in slightly cheaper while offering slightly less equipment.
Stay tuned for the official price and release date of the Peugeot E-208 GTi, a hot hatch that seamlessly blends the thrill of the 205 GTi with the eco-friendly ethos of zero-emission electric driving.
Sources: ntv.de, Mario Hommen, sp-x
- Peugeot Models
- Stellantis
- French Automobiles
- Compact Electric Cars
The new Peugeot E-208 GTi, rooted in the legacy of the iconic 205 GTi, is a small, electrified car from the French car manufacturer that fuses the joy of sports driving with minimal emissions. With its sporty features, including a lowered stance, widened tracks, and 18-inch lightweight alloy wheels, the E-208 GTi embodies the spirit of a hot hatch, offering a racy driving experience.
