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Peugeot Just Beat VW to the Electric GTI – Meet the E-208 GTi

Peugeot Just Beat VW to the Electric GTI – Meet the E-208 GTi

Peugeot has officially entered the hot hatch electric scene, and they did it before Volkswagen could get their electric GTI out the door. The new Peugeot E-208 GTi is not just an evolution—it is a revolution for the brand’s performance lineup. Peugeot Sport is going fully electric for the first time, and this small but mighty hatchback is leading the charge.

This is not just a styling exercise. The E-208 GTi uses a front-wheel-drive layout and is powered by a significantly upgraded electric motor. It produces 280 horsepower and 345 Newton-meters of torque, giving it enough punch to go from 0 to 62 miles per hour in 5.7 seconds. That kind of performance puts it right in the ring with the Abarth 600e, which offers similar figures. Top speed is 112 miles per hour, making it more than capable on twisty roads or highway stretches.

Of course, when you crank up the power, range usually takes a hit. The E-208 GTi still uses the standard 54 kilowatt-hour battery, but range drops from 269 to 217 miles on the WLTP cycle. On the plus side, it supports 100 kilowatt DC fast charging and can go from 10 percent to 80 percent in just 30 minutes.

Peugeot did not stop at power. They overhauled the suspension setup, lowering the car by 1.1 inches. The front and rear tracks are widened by 2.2 inches and 1 inch respectively, giving the car a more planted, aggressive look. The new 18-inch wheels and red paint scheme are a nod to the legendary 205 GTi, with a modern twist. Subtle aero tweaks, like a front splitter and a diffuser housing an LED fog light, complete the sporty look.

Underneath, there is even more performance gear. Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires wrap the alloys, while a self-locking differential integrated into the gearbox helps maintain traction. The braking setup includes larger 355-millimeter front discs with four-piston calipers. Drivers can quickly disable all assistance systems by activating the Sport mode.

Inside, the cabin gets meaningful upgrades. Peugeot installed sporty seats with integrated headrests, decorated with red accents inspired by the 205 GTi. Alcantara trim, custom floor mats, and a red GTi badge on the steering wheel finish off the interior with a performance vibe.

The E-208 GTi made its debut during the Le Mans 24 Hours weekend, proving Peugeot still knows how to honor its motorsport roots. And with competitors like the Mini John Cooper Works Electric, Abarth 500e, Cupra Born VZ, Alpine A290, and MG4 XPower, this new GTi brings heat to a segment that is only just warming up.

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