Peugeot descended at the Paris Auto Show with the new 308 GT sports models available with both diesel and petrol engines in sedan and estate body styles.

The GT is no GTi successor, with that role to be handed over to the 266hp 308 R model if Peugeot gives the green light for production, and instead tries to give consumers an alternative to the likes of Seat’s Leon FR models with more power and style.

Two engines are available, a 205PS (202hp) and 285Nm 1.6-liter THP turbocharged four petrol with which the GT reaches 100km/h (62mph) in 7.5 sec and tops out at 235km/h (146mph), and a 180PS (178hp) and 400Nm 2.0-liter BlueHDi diesel that gets the car to 100km/h in 8.4 sec and on to a top velocity of 219km/h (136mph).

The petrol engine is hooked up to a 6-speed manual, while the diesel is offered with a six-speed automatic.

Handling is improved through a re-tuned suspension and a lowered ride height (7mm at the front and 10mm at the rear), while the 308 GT also gets bigger brakes and 18-inch alloy wheels on beefier rubber.

Elsewhere, the GT sports some subtle aerodynamic and styling tweaks, including resculpted side skirts, black lacquered door mirrors, a chequered flag motif background for the instrument panel and sport seats.

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