Step Aside VW, Stellantis Is Developing Its Own GTi | Carscoops

Step Aside VW, Stellantis Is Developing Its Own GTi | Carscoops

      Peugeot will consider developing a combustion engine version if there is enough demand from customers.

      Peugeot is set to bring back the GTi name with a more performance-oriented variant of the E-208 hatchback.

      This model may take inspiration from elements found in the Abarth 600e and Opel Mokka GSE SUVs.

      The company has not offered a GTi in its lineup since previous versions of the 208 and 308.

      There remains interest in the hot hatch market, and Peugeot aims to maintain an edge amid the shift to electrification. The brand is reintroducing the GTi badge, this time on an electric vehicle.

      Peugeot has announced that it will release a GTi variant of the fully electric E-208, signaling the return of its renowned performance lineage. This new hot hatch is expected to debut at the 24 Hours of Le Mans on June 13, potentially leading to more GTi variants within the French automaker's offerings.

      The E-208 GTI will be the company's first performance-driven electric vehicle, catering to those looking for a dynamic driving experience. Peugeot CEO Alain Favey remarked that reintroducing the GTi brand will help the company "reconnect" with its heritage while also linking its road cars to its participation in the World Endurance Championship.

      Favey told Autocar, “I’m in a position to confirm that we will reintroduce the GTi on the E-208 as soon as possible. We’ve decided to bring back Peugeot GTi. We aim to continue enhancing the brand's reputation for driving enjoyment and the unique sensations our cars offer, whether for the driver or passengers.”

      The revival of the GTi will essentially replace the brief Peugeot Sport Engineered (PSE) label, which was only used on the 508 in both sedan and SW formats, despite initial ambitions for a full lineup of electrified performance models.

      The GTi variant of the E-208 may utilize powertrain components from the Abarth 600e, Alfa Romeo Junior Veloce, and the upcoming Opel Mokka GSE. These related SUVs produce between 237 hp (177 kW / 240 PS) and 278 hp (207 kW / 280 PS) from a single electric motor, with power directed to the front wheels using a limited-slip differential.

      Given that the Peugeot E-208 is somewhat smaller and lighter, it is expected to be quite agile, potentially reaching 60 mph (96 km/h) in under 6 seconds. The model will likely showcase styling and chassis enhancements that emphasize its sporty nature.

      Favey also mentioned that, in addition to the E-208, Peugeot may explore the possibility of introducing a new combustion engine GTi if customer interest warrants it.

      “We will start with the 208 and are definitely attentive to your feedback, as well as what our customers express,” he noted. “We do not rule out the possibility of other versions of the 208 GTi under the GTi label, but for now, there is nothing planned in that regard.”

      Thanos Pappas contributed to this article.

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Step Aside VW, Stellantis Is Developing Its Own GTi | Carscoops

Peugeot will contemplate a combustion version if there is enough interest from customers.