Peugeot Revives the GTi Badge, With Electric Badging
Peugeot E-208 finds itself to be the first electric GTi, beating Volkswagen who had previously unveiled a concept back in 2023. The E-208 marks a return of the GTi in Peugeot portfolio.

New Delhi: After five years of the GTI badge’s absence from Peugeot’s catalogue, the French car company have brought it back now in the shape of E-208. In 2020, the 308 GTI became the last of the Peugeot lot. While Volkswagen had unveiled a concept in 2023 and have been in talks about putting it into production, it is Peugeot who have launched into the GTi template.
It is the first complete electric model from Peugeot Sport and follows the 508 hybrid launched a few years back. A front-wheel-drive like a typical hot hatchback, the e-208 GTi gets an upgraded motor producing 280 bhp and 345 Nm of torque, which is the same output as the Abarth 600e.
Peugeot e-208 numbers and features
It is a significant surge from the standard version that gets 124 bhp and 85 Nm, the electric hatchback goes from 0-100kph in 5.7 seconds and flat out goes as far as 180 kph. The performance means that the WLTP combined cycle rating goes down to 350 km, down from 433 km. The GTi gets the standard 54-kWh battery and, in half an hour, can be charged from 10 per cent to 80 per cent.
The GTi gets a more muscular motor, with a stronger sports suspension fitted by Peugeot reduces the ride height by 1.1 inches (30 mm). For a more aggressive attitude, the front and rear tracks are enlarged by 2.2 in (56 mm) and 1 in (25 mm), respectively. The flared fenders are complemented by unique 18-inch wheels that resemble the alloys used on the 208 GTi. Paying tribute to the original 205 GTi, the car comes with a red paint job, with subtle aerodynamic touches including front spoiler lip and rear diffuser integrated LED fog lamp.
A redesigned rear anti-roll bar, a self-locking differential integrated into the gearbox, and Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires (215/40/18) are examples of performance hardware. Braking is handled by larger 355-mm front discs with four-piston callipers.
On the inside, the E-208 GTi has redesigned front seats with integrated headrests, which again pays tribute to the 205 GTi with central red stripes. The E-208 GTi makes its debut in the Le Mans 24 Hours weekend. While it isn’t the first of the EV hot hatches, the E-208 GTi for sure has made a segment for itself.
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