Peugeot has resurrected its iconic GTi line of hot hatchbacks after a five-year hiatus with the new E-208 GTi, marking the first time the GTi badge has been used on an electric vehicle. The E-208 GTi is the first all-new Peugeot hot hatch in a decade and is set to compete with rivals from Mini and Renault’s Alpine. However, it’s highly unlikely to be sold in Australia, following the regular E-208’s absence from local markets.
Key Specifications and Features
The E-208 GTi boasts a front electric motor producing 206kW and 345Nm, derived from the Alfa Romeo Junior Veloce. This represents a significant power increase over the standard E-208’s 115kW/260Nm output. Peugeot claims the E-208 GTi can accelerate from 0-100km/h in 5.7 seconds and reach a top speed of 180km/h. The performance is aided by a mechanical limited-slip front differential and a ‘Sport’ stability-control mode that disables driver assistance systems.
Design and Performance Enhancements
The E-208 GTi sits 30mm lower than the standard E-208, thanks to reworked suspension featuring new springs, dampers, and hydraulic bump stops, as well as a rear anti-roll bar. The track widths have been increased by 56mm at the front and 27mm at the rear, with the car riding on 18-inch wheels inspired by the 1980s Peugeot 205 GTi. These are wrapped in 215/40 R18 Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 track-day tyres. Other performance upgrades include more direct steering and enlarged 355mm front brake discs with four-piston calipers.
Battery and Charging
Energy is stored in a 54kWh (gross capacity) battery pack with a “specific cooling system”, allowing for a claimed driving range of 350km under European WLTP testing. DC fast charging remains limited to 100kW, enabling a 20 to 80 per cent recharge in 30 minutes. However, the battery pack adds significant weight, tipping the scales at around 1600kg – approximately 350kg more than a turbocharged Hyundai i20 N.
Interior and Design Elements
The E-208 GTi features new front sports seats with integrated headrests, featuring a red stripe inspired by the 205 GTi. The steering wheel is wrapped in leather and Alcantara, with red accents used throughout the cabin, including on the seatbelts. The instrument cluster and infotainment touchscreen graphics are coloured red, with the latter incorporating ‘performance pages’ displaying key driving data. The default ambient lighting colour is also red.
Unique Features and Availability
The E-208 GTi is distinguished by black wheel-arch flares with red highlights, a subtle front splitter, a new rear diffuser housing an LED fog light, and a rear spoiler. It’s also available in an exclusive shade of red paint. Peugeot promises a unique onboard sound experience derived from the motor’s performance, which can be activated or deactivated at the driver’s preference. The 2026 Peugeot E-208 GTi is expected to go on sale in Europe later this year, though Australian plans remain unannounced and are considered unlikely.
