The 208 Inherits the Glorious "GTI" Badge

Peugeot, once renowned for its excellent practicality and durability, was able to project a bright, agile, and sporty image thanks to the 205, which debuted in 1983. The following year, 1984, saw the debut of the "205 GTI" equipped with a powerful engine.

In the same year, Peugeot began participating in the World Rally Championship (WRC) with the "205T16," based on the 205 (though only its exterior resembled the 205, its internals employed cutting-edge technology like a mid-ship layout and full-time 4WD), and achieved overwhelming victories, winning the titles in 1985 and 1986.

The 208 is a Model Packed with Peugeot's Full Commitment

In fact, even without the GTi designation, the 208 itself can be considered a model packed with Peugeot's full commitment. According to the materials they released, the aforementioned "205" recorded sales of 5 million units worldwide, and the subsequent "206" approached 6 million units. However, the sales figures for the following "207" are not specified.207" are not specified.



This is purely speculation, but perhaps the 207 was not as successful as the 205 or 206. Otherwise, there is no explanation for why the 207's sales figures were not listed alongside those of the 205 and 206.




The 207 was not a bad car in itself. It drove well and had a comfortable ride. Therefore, if its sales were sluggish, the only conceivable reason is that its body size, which was more than 20 cm longer than its predecessor, was not well-received.



Nevertheless, Peugeot humbly accepted the message from the market and crafted the 208 into a new model with a particularly rich substance.





It goes without saying that the 208 GTi, which joins this ambitious 208 series, is a special model. Furthermore, while maximizing its available technology to enhance performance, Peugeot has not only created a spirited hot hatch but also imbued it with a level of sophistication suitable for adult drivers.

This sense of style, or perhaps planning ability, might be the most crucial aspect of the 208 GTi.

Tough Yet Refined

The 208 GTi is powered by a 1.6-liter direct-injection inline-4 gasoline engine with a twin-scroll turbocharger, delivering a series-topping 200ps.

Given that the lightweight 208 body, which performs well even with the 1.2-liter engine producing 82ps, is now equipped with a powerful 200ps engine, it's only natural that the 208 GTi sprints with such verve. However, the engine's remarkably easy-to-handle nature, despite its output of 125ps per liter, is another feature that cannot be overlooked.



In fact, even when pressing the accelerator pedal deeper when exiting tight corners, the car accelerated smoothly without the traction control intervening.

This performance is likely a result of the appropriate front-rear weight distribution, meticulously designed suspension geometry, and clever engine mount configuration. Additionally, the suspension setting, which allows for relatively soft initial travel, also contributes. The tires consistently gripped the road, even over uneven surfaces, providing effective traction, likely due to this setup.

Another benefit of this suspension setting is the comfortable ride, without transmitting harsh shocks. In fact, the 208 GTi offers a smoother and surprisingly composed ride for this type of hot hatch. It's a tuning that suits a discerning adult more than a boisterous youngster.



Of course, if the handling were sluggish, it would just be a family car. However, the 208 GTi is by no means sluggish; it navigates winding roads with a pleasing agility and ample stability. The fact that it achieves this level of responsiveness while maintaining solid rear grip demonstrates that Peugeot's renowned chassis tuning expertise is still very much alive.

The gearbox is a 6-speed manual only, and its operation is excellent. The clutch is not unduly heavy, so it should be perfectly usable for daily driving.

Furthermore, while the interior and exterior feature GTi-specific embellishments, it's commendable that they create a sporty atmosphere without resorting to a "childish" aesthetic. Much like the 205 GTI, it seems to effectively express a worldview that is both "tough and refined."

Finally, let us share one particularly appealing point about the 208 GTi. Despite its 200ps engine and comprehensive equipment, the price is a mere 2.99 million yen, just 1 million yen more than the basic grade.

For those who admired the 205 GTI but found it out of reach, this can truly be called a bargain price.


Peugeot 208 GTi | プジョー 208 GTi

Body Size | Length 3,960 x Width 1,740 x Height 1,470 mm

Wheelbase | 2,540 mm

Tread Front/Rear | 1,480 / 1,490 mm

Minimum Ground Clearance | 120 mm

Minimum Turning Radius | 5.4 meters

Weight | 1,200 kg

Engine | 1,598cc Inline-4 DOHC Turbo

Compression Ratio | 10.5 : 1

Bore x Stroke | 77 x 85.8 mm

Maximum Output | 147kW (200ps) / 6,000 rpm

Maximum Torque | 275Nm / 1,700 rpm

Transmission | 6-speed Manual

Gear Ratio | 1st 3.538

2nd 2.041

3rd 1.433

4th 1.102

5th 0.880

6th 0.744

Final Drive Ratio | 3.562

Drivetrain | FF

Front Suspension | MacPherson Strut

Rear Suspension | Torsion Beam

Tires | 205/45R17

Brakes Front/Rear | Ventilated Disc / Disc

Fuel Economy (JC08 Mode) | 13.8 km/ℓ

Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 ℓ

Price | 2.99 million yen