Peugeot e-208 GTi: the GTi badge returns

For everyone who still remembers the hot hatches of the 1980s and 1990s, GTi is one of those badges that remains “tattooed” on the heart of enthusiasts across the motoring world. Volkswagen has never abandoned it, and now Peugeot is set to revive it.

The last Peugeot to wear the GTi badge was the previous-generation 308, which bowed out in 2021.

It was supposed to be replaced by the PSE (Peugeot Sport Engineering) designation, but that decision produced just one model: the 508 PSE plug-in hybrid.

Now, in comments to the press today, Alain Favey, the brand’s new chief executive, has confirmed the return of this historically important Peugeot badge, saying that he wants to “cultivate the brand’s reputation for driving sensations”.

GTi returns, with one caveat…

Favey says the new model will arrive “as soon as possible”. However, there is a catch: it will not be all about petrol power.

The legendary Peugeot badge will return on the 208, more precisely on a fully electric version of the current model. Its unveiling is expected as early as next summer.

“We decided that the GTi will return with the e-208. It is a clear signal of our desire to reconnect with our history and with our involvement in motorsport.”

• Alain Favey, Peugeot CEO

For the time being, Favey has not confirmed whether the e-208 GTi will be a one-off or the first of a wider range of models. He acknowledged that the badge’s future will depend on the brand’s customers. “We will start with the e-208 and listen to what our customers have to say. We are not ruling out other versions [including combustion-engined ones], but for now, nothing else is planned,” he clarified.

What we know about the Peugeot e-208 GTi

This new Peugeot e-208 GTi is expected to share its main ingredients with the Abarth 600e and Alfa Romeo Junior Veloce.

That means the e-208 GTi should feature a 240 hp or 280 hp electric motor, a limited-slip differential and a bespoke chassis.

Electric power and expected performance

We know that the electric nature of this Peugeot GTi may disappoint many people, but the Italian models have proved themselves to be genuinely exciting cars to drive:

In the Abarth 600e, 0–100 km/h takes around six seconds. However, as the e-208 is more compact and could be lighter - the 600e weighs 1,625 kg - this new Peugeot e-208 GTi may be able to better that figure.

It seems the new Alpine A290 - which we have already tested on video - has just gained one of its most serious rivals in the Peugeot e-208 GTi.