Peugeot has confirmed it intends to launch a GTi version of its lightweight 208 supermini in the Spring of 2013, following a concept making a successful appearance at the Geneva Motor Show earlier this year.
The French carmaker has a fine history of hot hatches, with its 205 GTi a legend of the 1980s and 1990s, and with this new model the carmaker is hoping to return to the pinnacle of the segment.
"The 208 was an excellent base for developing a sports hatchback. We have worked with particular attention on the steering response, the chassis dynamics and the rigidity of the suspension. The 208 GTi successfully combines performance, safety and driving pleasure." Marie Beaumont, 208 GTi Dynamics Manager.
Thanks to an economical engine and lightweight design (just 1160kg) the latest GTi is also the cleanest ever – emitting just 145g/km of CO2. Power is provided by a 1.6-litre THP 200bhp petrol engine, with a reworked exhaust system. The new model takes less than 7 seconds in its 0-62mph sprint test. While in-gear acceleration is equally impressive, with the 208 GTi accelerating from 50 to 75mph in less than 7.0 seconds in 5th gear.
Compared to the previous Peugeot GTi hot hatch, the stats make for impressive reading. The old 207 GTi had a 173bhp 1.6-litre petrol engine which emitted 171g/km of CO2 and averaged 39.2mpg on the combined cycle.
To ensure that all 200bhp hits the road smoothly, the Peugeot engineers have revised steering, firmed up the front suspension, alternated the chassis dynamics, and recalibrated the shock absorbers from the standard 208.
Expect to see the new Peugeot 208 GTi at this month’s Paris Motor Show.
Richard has been writing about cars since 2008. His favourite motoring topics include the latest fuel-saving technology but also high performance cars – he's conflicted like that. When he doesn't have his writing (or marketing) hat on, he can be found traipsing around the British countryside. Or drinking a skinny latté.
Richard Lawton
September 03, 2012
Filed under: Peugeot
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