Peugeot 208 GTI Adds Lightness As Well As Power
A hot hatch that’s up on power and 220 lbs lighter than the model it replaces? What a novel concept!
The Peugeot 208 GTI you see here is officially a “concept”, but the 208 itself is very real, and will replace the outgoing 207 model. The premium hot hatch segment is growing in Europe, with the Audi A1 and Citroen DS3 being the latest examples. Audi and Citroen both offer “hot” versions of their wares, but the 208’s 197 horsepower 1.6L turbo 4-cylinder and estimated 2535 lb curb weight , that puts it roughly in league with the Mini Cooper S in terms of power-to-weight ratio. Every Peugeot hot hatch has had to live in the shadow of the Peugeot 205 GTI, while Renault and Citroen’s latest entries have become critical favorites in Europe. The 208 GTI will get its debuted at March’s Geneva Auto Show.
More by Derek Kreindler
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I recall a TG UK episode where the super veloce and super leggera Italian cars added lightness by removing standard equipment such as radio and air con - but not installing those items actually cost money laughably. Wonder if its the same here.
Sure looks way better than the Peugeot that Lt. Columbo drove!!! BTW- loved the Cheech Marin commemnt, made my day!