The iconic 24h of Le Mans circuit was the venue of choice last weekend for Peugeot to reveal the new E-208 GTi, the French company’s first ever electric hot hatch.
Forty years ago, Peugeot made automotive history by introducing the 205 GTi. In its 1.6l version (1984 ) and then in 1.9l (1986 ), the 205 GTi pioneered a new concept of the small sporty hatchback.
Over four decades, the Peugeot GTi label has marked the history of sports cars with several production models acclaimed for their performance and dynamic qualities – 306, 206, 207, 208 – and the history of motorsport with numerous victories, particularly in rallies and rally raids.
Now, Peugeot is continuing this legacy with the launch of the E-208 GTi. Equipped with a 54 kWh battery and an M4+ electric motor that develops 280 hp and offers torque of 345 Nm, the E-208 GTi accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.7 seconds and has a top speed of 180 km/h.
Like all GTi models for 40 years, the E-208 GTi is distinguished first by its strong stance on the road thanks to a body lowered by 30 mm and tracks widened by 56 mm at the front and 27 mm at the rear. The large 18-inch wheels, signed ‘Peugeot GTi’ contribute to the powerful stance.
The wheel arches have been widened to accommodate the increased tracks and highlighted with an elegant and sporty red line – another nod to the 205 GTi. Their lower part is flared to clear the tyres, which helps accentuate the sporty style of the car. A spoiler has been added to the bottom of the front bumper, while the specific aerodynamic diffuser located under the rear bumper integrates new small LED fog light, which has been tinted in glossy black for more elegance and discretion.
Finally the E-208 GTi receives an exclusive bright red body colour in yet another nod to the iconic red paint popularised on the first 205 GTI.
“This model represents a fusion of our rich heritage with cutting-edge technology, offering unparalleled performance and driving sensations, because at Peugeot we are serious about driving pleasure. With this new GTi, we set new standards within the hot hatch market,” said Peugeot CEO Alain Falvey.
