Peugeot has released its first images of the all-new 208 GTI, the car it believes will “regenerate the legend” of the iconic 205 GTI. The car is expected to arrive in the UK next Spring, with prices around £21,000.
Lower and wider than the standard three-door on which it is based, the new 208 GTI is powered by a 197bhp 1.6-litre turbo petrol engine.
Peugeot says the engine, mated to a six-speed, close-ratio manual gearbox, will be capable of covering the 0-62mph sprint in less than 7.0sec.
Due to be officially unveiled at the Paris Motor Show later this month, it’s expected the car will have a top speed close to 140mph, though Peugeot has yet to confirm that. We do know CO2 emissions will be 145g/km.
The chassis has undergone subtle tweaks: for instance, its tracks are 10mm wider at the front and 20mm wider at the rear. Plus Peugeot has tuned the exhaust to make what it calls an “appealing sound”.
And while the car is also fitted with new sports springs, recalibrated dampers, revised anti-roll bars, it’s also fitted with 17in ‘Diamond Carbon’ alloy wheels that are painted and finished in a matt varnish.
“We have worked with particular attention on the steering response, the chassis dynamics and rigidity of the suspension,” the 208 GTI’s dynamics manager, Marie Beaumont, said.
The new 208 GTI also gets a number of cosmetic changes. There’s a bodykit with flared wheel arches and wider side sills, new LED daytime running lights and a bespoke finish for the grille.
There’s also special red and chrome trim and a GTI logo on each C-pillar that pays homage to the 205 GTI.
Inside the cabin, the door handles, centre console, instrument panel and leather-wrapped steering wheel feature trim that matches the exterior colour. Plus there’s aluminium pedals, part-leather sports seats and an aluminium gearknob.
About Jim McGill
Jim McGill is an award-winning motoring and motorsport journalist with more than 25 years' industry experience. He contributes to a number of newspapers and magazines, including The Times, Telegraph, Daily Mail, Scotsman, Sunday Herald and AA Magazine.
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