200ps Maximum Output, 28.0kgm Maximum Torque

The engine powering the newly announced 308 GTi is the same 1.6-liter twin-turbo unit found in the already released RCZ.

This unit combines direct injection, a twin-scroll turbocharger, and VTi (Variable Valve Lift and Timing) to produce a maximum output of 200ps and a maximum torque of 28.0kgm.

With its 6-speed manual transmission, it achieves a 0-100 km/h time of 7.7 seconds. Furthermore, a key feature of this model is its excellent environmental performance, with a European combined cycle fuel economy of 14.5 km/ℓ and CO2 emissions of 159g/km.

Exterior highlights include a rear spoiler, chrome exhaust pipes, and 18-inch wheels. The interior features an aluminum footrest, shift knob, and a leather-wrapped sports steering wheel, contributing to a sporty finish befitting a hot hatch.

The new 308 GTi is scheduled to go on sale in France on June 10th, with a price set at 26,900 euros (approximately 3.05 million yen).

BRAND HISTORY
Peugeot, one of France's leading brands, also owns Citroën. As a full-line manufacturer that produces everything from mass-market cars to presidential limousines, Peugeot is also actively involved in the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the World Rally Championship.

Peugeot began manufacturing automobiles in 1890. Ten years after Gottlieb Daimler developed the world's first internal combustion engine automobile (the precursor to the Mercedes-Benz), Peugeot began receiving engines from him, demonstrating an early commitment to automotive manufacturing.

Peugeot is also characterized by its solid product development, consistently creating orthodox models without resorting to eccentric designs. Its close relationship with the Italian design house Pininfarina contributes to the elegant styling that is a hallmark of Peugeot cars.

In Japan, due to a smaller dealer network and its relatively understated, orthodox design, Peugeot was once a brand known only to enthusiasts. However, the sporty hatchback 205 GTI, introduced in 1986, ignited its popularity. Subsequently, with the 306 and 307 models targeting the VW Golf, the brand significantly expanded its market share, gaining particular attention as an urban vehicle popular among women.

Product planning prowess is another hallmark of Peugeot. The brand was also an early adopter of the CC (Coupe Cabriolet) concept, featuring retractable hardtops for open-top driving.

Another factor contributing to Peugeot's market growth has been its active involvement in motorsports and its consistent success. The brand secured World Rally Championship titles in 1985, 1986, 2000, 2001, and 2002. It achieved overall victories at the 24 Hours of Le Mans twice in the 1990s and again in 2009 with a diesel-powered machine.

As of June 2010, the Japanese lineup included the 207 (hatchback, station wagon, coupe cabriolet), 308 (hatchback, station wagon, coupe cabriolet), and 407 (sedan, station wagon, coupe). In June, the crossover concept 3008 was added, followed by the sporty compact coupe RCZ in the autumn.