Would you look at that? Peugeot is beating Volkswagen to the electric GTI punch. Although the Germans unveiled a concept in 2023 and have been talking about a production version ever since, the French are launching to market first. As before, the company with the lion badge writes it “GTi” with a lowercase “i,” but the idea remains the same. The combustion-powered lineage ended in 2020 with the 308 GTi, and now the new E-208 GTi marks the beginning of the electric chapter.
It’s the first fully electric model from Peugeot Sport and follows the hot 508 hybrid launched a few years back. Still a front-wheel-drive affair, like any respectable hot hatch, the E-208 GTi features an upgraded motor producing 280 horsepower and 345 Newton-meters (245 pound-feet) of torque. If that sounds familiar, it’s the same output as the Abarth 600e.
Photo by: Peugeot
That’s a significant bump: 124 hp and 85 Nm (63 lb-ft) more than the standard version of the subcompact electric hatchback. The added electric muscle helps the E-208 GTi sprint from 0 to 62 mph (100 km/h) in just 5.7 seconds. Flat out, it tops 112 mph (180 km/h).
Unsurprisingly, performance comes at the cost of efficiency. Prioritizing speed over range drops the WLTP combined cycle rating from 269 to 217 miles (433 to 350 kilometers). The GTi keeps the standard 54-kWh battery and can charge from 10% to 80% in about half an hour using a 100 kW DC fast charger.
But the GTi is more than just a beefed-up motor. Peugeot fits it with a stiffer sports suspension that lowers the ride height by 1.1 inches (30 mm). The front and rear tracks are widened by 2.2 in (56 mm) and 1 in (25 mm), respectively, for a more aggressive stance. Exclusive 18-inch wheels, reminiscent of the 208 GTi’s alloys, fill out the flared fenders. A bold red paint job pays homage to the original 205 GTi, while subtle aerodynamic touches, such as a front spoiler lip and a rear diffuser with an integrated LED fog lamp, complete the look.
Performance hardware includes Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires (215/40/18), a self-locking differential built into the gearbox, and a new rear anti-roll bar. Larger 355-mm front discs with four-piston calipers handle braking. Want to disable all the driver assistance tech with a single press? Hit the dedicated Sport driving mode.
Photo by: Peugeot
Inside, the E-208 GTi sets itself apart from its more modest siblings. Redesigned front seats with integrated headrests pay homage to the 205 GTi 1.9, thanks to a central red stripe, while the right-side seat pattern echoes the 205 GTi 1.6. Alcantara accents, custom floor mats, and a red badge on the compact steering wheel complete the cabin upgrades.
The E-208 GTi debuts today during the Le Mans 24 Hours weekend, and we’re hoping it’s just the start of more GTi-badged models, even if they’re electric. It’s not the first EV hot hatch on the scene. Relevant examples include the Abarth 500e, Cupra Born VZ, Mini John Cooper Works Electric, Alpine A290, and the lesser-known MG4 XPower. We’re still waiting on VW’s own electric GTI to finally arrive.
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Source: Peugeot
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