PEUGEOT 308 GTI ANNOUNCED

It’s not just Volkswagen who boast the GTI moniker. Even Peugeot, the French automaker, has a relatively proud history with the famous badge. Of course it’s not as proud as VW’s but it certainly has its place. And that place is being renewed with the announcement of a new 308 GTI performance hatch.

The 308 GTI is powered by the BMW-developed, Peugeot/Citroen-manufactured 1.6-litre THP turbo petrol engine with four cylinders. It’s a Euro-5 engine, which means it’s very fuel efficient. The bare figures read thus: 147kW between 5800rpm and 6800rpm, and 275Nm of torque between 1700rpm and 4500rpm. Peugeot claims a 7.7 second 0 – 100km/h sprint time, which is in the ball park area for such a car. Average fuel consumption is claimed at 6.9 litres per 100km, with corresponding C02 emissions at 159g/km. For the latter it means a C02 tax penalty of R3 334.50 over the listed price.

A short-shift 6-speed manual is fitted for changes, and if it’s anything like the one I experienced with the 308 CC and the new RCZ, then we are in for a real treat as far as the fun-o-metre goes. The front wheels do the pulling. Top speed is rated at 237km/h.

From a visual point of view, the GTI differentiates itself by using a lower front bumper, a restyled rear apron with a rear diffuser, a rear roof spoiler and two chromed tailpipes. Running shoes are 18-inch wheels with 225/40 R18 tyres.

Inside the changes will include a fascia with piano black inserts, an aluminium foot rest, an aluminium gearshift knob, a leather-trimmed sports steering wheel with a squared-off lower rim and aluminium detailing. Interior features include a USB and auxiliary ports, half-leather upholstery with contoured seats, cruise control, park sensors and rain sensors.

ESP stability control is standard, and includes dynamic stability control (CDS), electronic brake force distribution (EBD) and emergency brake assist (EBA). The CDS, ASR (traction control) and EBA functions can be switched off simultaneously to allow demanding and experienced drivers to fully enjoy the car’s capacities.

The Peugeot 308 GTI is available immediately at Peugeot dealers nationwide. Price includes a five-year/90 000 km service plan, and a three-year/100 000 km warranty.

Peugeot 308 GTI Pricing

308 GTI 5-door (R293 335 including C02 tax)