2012 Peugeot 208 GTI Concept. Peugeot released the information and the 208 GTi Concept will he show in the exhibition. GTi engine equipped with a 1.6-liter turbo-powered 197 hp and 275 Nm of torque.
The machine was coupled with 6-speed manual transmission is capable of generating acceleration from 0 to 100 km / h in a matter of less than 7 seconds.
Peugeot itself is heavily encouraging such behaviour; its press release happily namechecks the 1980s hot hatch icon, while the ‘GTI’ badge on the 208’s rear quarter panel is an unashamed nod to its ancestor. The 208 is also significantly lighter than its 207 predecessor, helping edge the hatch back to its roots.
And after the underwhelming 206 and 207 GTIs, the new 208 could be the return to form we’ve been waiting for. The front wheels are powered by the same 1.6-litre turbo engine as Peugeot’s top-spec RCZ coupe. Maximum outputs of 197bhp and 202lb ft should help hustle the wee 208 to 60mph in under seven seconds, keeping it competitive with its rivals – the Mini Cooper S, Vauxhall Corsa VXR and new Ford Fiesta ST and Renaultsport Clio – which will all boast similar 1.6 turbo fours by the time the GTI’s on sale.
There’s a six-speed manual gearbox – no mention of a paddleshift automatic just yet – while the brushed aluminium interior is said to be very driver focused, possessing Peugeot’s smallest steering wheel in years. Here’s hoping its rack has more feel than the RCZ’s. There’s also Nappa leather sports seats plus plenty of Alcantara and LED detailing, though some of this might not make it from concept to production.
Chassis-wise, the GTI’s track widths are up 36mm over the standard 208’s, while there are 302mm brake discs up front, 249mm rear. Exterior highlights include twin chrome exhaust pipes, red trimmed alloy wheels and a subtle bodykit with a rear roof spoiler.
Pricing and spec details will likely be saved for the production car’s reveal, but an £18,000 starting point will keep the 208 GTI competitive in class.
Also on Peugeot’s Geneva show stand will be the 208 XY (pictured, purple), which gets trick ‘pulsion’ paintwork whose appearance changes as you walk around it. The interior is also strikingly clad and gets an ambient lighting setup. It previews a Citroen DS3-like personalisation scheme that could help take Peugeot’s supermini more upmarket.
The exterior carries such modest improvements in the bottom of the spoiler, sill extensions skirt, aluminum Concept GTI emblem on the grille and rear pillar panel. Because this concept is a pre-production format, it is natural that there is nothing horrendous.
In the cabin has a fresh look with LED backlighting that gives a feel for the rider ambient. This vehicle is equipped with leather-covered steering wheel
Although Peugeot has not revealed his plans when these vehicles will be produced, seems to glide in the 208 GTi will end this year
