Peugeot e-208 GTi brings back the iconic GTI badge

For anyone who still remembers the hot hatches of the 1980s and 1990s, the GTi badge remains ‘tattooed’ on the hearts of motoring enthusiasts worldwide. Volkswagen has never abandoned it, and Peugeot is now set to revive it.

The last Peugeot to wear the GTI nameplate was the previous-generation 308, which left the range in 2021.

It was expected to be replaced by the PSE (Peugeot Sport Engineering) designation, yet that decision produced only one model: the 508 PSE plug-in hybrid.

Peugeot’s new chief executive, Alain Favey, has now confirmed to the press that the historic badge will return. He said he wants to “build on the brand’s reputation for driving sensations”.

GTI returns, with one caveat

Favey says the new model will arrive “as quickly as possible”. There is, however, a catch: this comeback will not be fuelled by octane.

The famous Peugeot badge will return on the 208, specifically in a fully electric version of the current model. Its unveiling is expected as early as next summer.

“We have decided that the GTi will return with the e-208. It is a clear sign of our desire to reconnect with our history and our involvement in motorsport.”

• Alain Favey, Peugeot CEO

For now, Favey has not confirmed whether the e-208 GTi will be a one-off or the first in a wider line of models, acknowledging that the badge’s future will depend on the brand’s customers. “We will begin with the e-208 and listen to what our customers have to say. We do not rule out other versions (including combustion), but for now, nothing else is planned,” he explained.

Peugeot e-208 GTi: what we know so far

This new Peugeot e-208 GTi is expected to use the same ingredients already seen in the Abarth 600e and Alfa Romeo Junior Veloce.

That means the e-208 GTI should feature a 240 hp or 280 hp electric motor, a limited-slip differential and a bespoke chassis.

Electric performance and expected rivals

The fact that this Peugeot GTI will be electric may disappoint many people, but the Italian models have proved themselves to be genuinely exciting cars to drive.

In the Abarth 600e, 0–100 km/h takes around six seconds. However, as the e-208 is smaller and could be lighter - the 600e weighs 1,625 kg - this new Peugeot e-208 GTi may be able to better that figure.

It appears the new Alpine A290 - which we have already tested on video - has just gained one of its most serious rivals in the Peugeot e-208 GTI.