PEUGEOT GTIS ARE BACK – STARTING WITH THE E-208

Hot electric supermini will have “typical GTi agility and steering feeling”

- CHARLIE MARTIN

Peugeot’s revered GTi badge has returned to appear on its first electric performance car, a hot hatch based on the e-208 that is aimed squarely at compatriot Alpine's A290.

Its launch at last week's 24 Hours of Le Mans marks the return of one of the most evocative badges in performance motoring, after the 308 GTi went off sale in 2021. It is also the first hot Peugeot since the 508 PSE was axed in late 2024.

Developed by Peugeot Sport and inspired by the widely admired 205 GTi, the new car represents a dramatic overhaul of the city-focused e-208.

The key to the package is a motor transplant from the Alfa Romeo Junior Veloce. Mounted up front and paired with a mechanical limited-slip differential, it puts out 278bhp and 254lb ft - a substantial increase from the regular e-208's 154bhp.

These reserves slingshot the 1596kg hatchback to 62mph in 5.7sec - 0.2sec quicker than the 255bhp Mini John Cooper Works Electric and 0.7sec ahead of the 217bhp Alpine A290 GT Performance. Its top speed is claimed to be 112mph.

Alongside that extra pace, it is fitted with hydraulic bump stops and a rear anti-roll bar. The steering is also said to have been tuned for more direct responses.

The new GTi gains a look that matches its performance billing. The hot hatch is 30mm lower than the standard car and the tracks have been widened by 56mm at the front and 27mm at the rear to create a muscular stance.