Peugeot 308 GT returns with 165kW

Peugeot is about to reintroduce the warmed-over GT badge back not seen in its 308 small car range since 2015, carsales has learned.

However, while the previous Peugeot 308 GT hatch offered 151kW and a six-speed manual for $41,990, the new 2019 Peugeot 308 GT will be more powerful and fitted with an automatic transmission.

What’s more, we expect the new GT hatch will be positioned between the current 308 Allure and GTi with a sub-$40,000 price tag.

That will make the born-again Peugeot 308 GT a tasty alternative to the likes of the Kia Cerato GT Turbo 1.6 auto ($32,990 plus ORCs), Renault Megane GT auto ($38,990), Subaru WRX (from $39,690) and Volkswagen’s auto-only Golf GTi (from $46,190).

Apart from the 165kW/auto powertrain, expect standard features -- over and above those offered in the base 308 Allure -- to include a sports body kit including a chequerboard grille with red Peugweot lettering, 10mm lower and firmer suspension, 18-inch alloys, black Alcantara sports seat trim with red stitching and GT badging.

According to official homologation documents, Peugeot Australia has received approval to introduce the 308 GT Touring and hatch, powered by a 165kW THP 1.6-litre turbo-petrol four-cylinder engine matched to an eight-speed automatic transmission – likely to be the first application of Aisin’s all-new 8A.

Peugeot’s circa-200kW 308 GTi ($43,990) lacks an auto gearbox and remains a special order only model. Unfortunately, we understand the new 308 GT warm hatch will be a limited-edition model.

“Peugeot will introduce a special-edition 308 sports hatch later this month, however, full details of this model will be revealed closer to launch,” confirmed Peugeot Australia spokesman Tyson Bowen.

“What I can say is that this is a sporty hatch, with all of the safety features drivers need, paired with the performance they desire.”