Peugeot e-208 GTi: Electric Hot Hatch Aims to Recapture Legendary Badge
Peugeot's first all-electric hot hatch, the e-208 GTi, aims to blend performance thrills with electric power, carrying the legacy of the iconic 205 GTi into a new era.
Peugeot is venturing into the electric hot hatch segment with the launch of the e-208 GTi, a model intended to uphold the performance heritage associated with the GTi badge.
A Legacy Reimagined
The GTi designation has a storied history with Peugeot, dating back to the 1984 205 GTi, a car widely regarded as a benchmark for hot hatches due to its lightweight construction and spirited performance. Subsequent models like the 106 GTi, 306 GTi-6, and the 208 GTi launched in 2012 have carried the torch. The e-208 GTi seeks to bridge this legacy with contemporary electric vehicle technology. At a price point just under £34,000, it enters a competitive space, aligning with rivals such as Alpine's A290, which offers a comparable range.
The new e-208 GTi boasts 281hp and is touted by Peugeot to have the best power-to-weight ratio in its class, promising a no-compromise approach to sportiness. This electric iteration retains the muscular, compact styling of the standard e-208 but features a lowered body and widened track for a more aggressive stance. Design cues include Peugeot's signature three-claw lighting, 18-inch alloy wheels, widened wheel arches, a front spoiler, and a gloss-black diffuser. Distinctive red accents are present on the grille, brake calipers, and pillar badges, extending to the interior.
Interior and Practicality
Inside, the e-208 GTi adopts a performance-oriented aesthetic, characterized by black upholstery contrasted with prominent red detailing, including carpets, floor mats, seatbelts, stitching, and ambient lighting. Sport bucket seats are designed for support and comfort. However, the cabin's usability faces scrutiny, with a 10-inch touchscreen experiencing slow response times and dated graphics. Connectivity issues with Apple CarPlay were noted, leading to reliance on an Android phone. Physical controls offer a retro feel, with features like a 0-60mph timer and G-force meter adding character. Ergonomic challenges include awkwardly angled haptic dashboard controls and a drive mode selector that is difficult to reach safely. Rear passenger space is limited, with adult passengers of average height likely to find legroom and headroom constrained, and the 309-liter boot space is moderate compared to some competitors like the Alpine A290 (326 liters) but more generous than the Vauxhall Corsa GSe (267 liters).
Driving Dynamics
On the road, particularly on winding mountain passes, the e-208 GTi demonstrated keen performance, described as aggressive, composed, and fast. The 281hp output provides substantial acceleration, managed effectively by its planted handling. Peugeot has implemented upgrades including a widened track (56mm front, 28mm rear), bespoke suspension, a rear anti-roll bar, and a mechanical limited-slip differential to enhance grip and cornering stability. The steering wheel, though small and contributing to a feeling of agility, can obstruct the instrument display for some drivers. Regenerative braking can be deactivated in Sport mode. Despite these advancements, the ride quality is noted as firm, potentially becoming unsettled on uneven road surfaces. The brake pedal's high position can lead to knee contact with the steering column for shorter drivers, and the braking feel is described as somewhat vague. The car accelerates from 0-62mph in 5.5 seconds and has a top speed of 112mph.
Range and Charging
The e-208 GTi achieves a WLTP-certified range of 233 miles on a full charge, placing it in close competition with its electric hot hatch rivals. Charging from 20% to 80% can be accomplished in under 30 minutes using a 100kW DC fast charger, while a 7.4kW home wallbox will take approximately four hours and 40 minutes.
Pricing and Verdict
Available in a single trim, the Peugeot e-208 GTi is priced at £34,995 before incentives. It qualifies for the UK Government's £1,500 Electric Car Grant, reducing the on-the-road price to £33,495. This positions it slightly above the Vauxhall Corsa GSe and significantly above the Alpine A290. Peugeot offers an eight-year or 100,000-mile warranty for both the vehicle and its battery. The e-208 GTi is presented as a theatrical and compelling interpretation of the electric hot hatch, suggesting that enthusiasts will continue to have engaging options as the automotive market shifts towards electrification.
