The Peugeot 208 GTi is a capable little hot hatch, as we found out. However, while the consensus more than a decade ago was that a front-wheel drive car should not have more than 200 hp, nowadays you get that (or close to it) in any number of regular cars. The idea is that even with its turbocharged 1.6-liter engine pumping out 197 hp, it’s still not really special.
Now, since it’s very likely that Renault may start making more hardcore models bearing the Gordini badge, and the Clio RS which is the 208 GTi’s main rival, would be getting this treatment, it is quite possible that Peugeot may want to put more powerful versions of the familiar turbocharged unit that we know is good for close to 270 hp.
However, as this report published by French magazine Auto-Journal suggests, the more racy version would only get 20 – 30 more horsepower, and a few other modifications to help it handle the extra go.
To me that really sounds like a plan, and has the potential to spawn a more hardcore car, more in-tune with its spiritual roots, and a more worthy successor to the 205 GTi that they paraded around at the press event.
If it does get made, expect it to be considerably more expensive, and only available in limited examples – a numbered plaque will definitely be placed somewhere visible, as dictated by the French tradition of limited edition hot hatch making.
By Andrei Nedelea
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