Peugeot takes the wraps off 308 GTi

Having recently announced the demise of the its 207 GTi, Peugeot has revealed details of its newest model to wear the famous sporting moniker, the 308 GTi.

It's the first time in more than 10 years Peugeot has released a GTi in this vehicle class, and with an exciting driveline package sourced directly from the sexy RCZ coupe model, the 308 is certain to woo more than a few Francophiles back to the brand.

The new 308 GTi goes on sale in France from June 10 with prices starting at €26,900 but locally, it's a case of wait and see. Peugeot Australia's Events and Promotions Manager, Kirin Tipping, telling the Carsales Network:

"The 308 GTi hasn't been confirmed yet, but it's on the wish-list. If we do manage to secure the car (for Australia), we won't see it until next year, if at all."

Featuring a 1.6-litre THP four-cylinder unit, the 308 GTi will develop 147kW (available from 5500 to 6800rpm), a figure that will see it become competitive against segment benchmark, the Volkswagen Golf GTI. The THP engine uses twin-scroll turbocharging technology and a high pressure direct-injection system coupled to variable valve timing to extract 275Nm of torque (between 1700 and 4500rpm).

Peugeot says the figures will see the 308 GTi manage 0-100km/h times of 7.7 seconds, almost a second slower the Golf GTI benchmark (6.9 seconds). Mated to a six-speed manual gearbox, the 308 GTi manages a fuel consumption figure of 6.9L/100km. CO2 emissions are just 159g/km.

Making certain the sports car experience isn't diluted, sound engineers have been put to task developing an engine and exhaust rumble specially tuned for GTi customers who Peugeot say have "particular demands in terms of acoustics". The exhaust system is finished by dual chrome exhaust pipes.

Importantly, the 308 GTi boasts lowered suspension (-10mm) specifically tuned for spirited cornering with its front MacPherson struts gaining larger bearings and stiffer shock absorber settings. Front stabiliser bars are also thicker at 22mm (20mm in regular models). Up back, the sporty Pug's torsion beam arrangement also scores stiffer dampers.

Rolling on 18-inch 'Lincancabur' alloy wheels, the 308 GTi is shod with 225/40 R18 tyres and picks up larger diameter disc brakes: 340x30mm at the front and 290x12mm up back.

Aesthetically, the sports-oriented 308 gains a rear spoiler and diffuser set in a lowered rear bumper, while at the front, the smiling assassin adds a lowering panel with carbon style insert, similar to that found on the 308 CC. Obligatory GTi badges are also stuck to the 308's front guards and hatch.

Interior highlights include an alloy foot rest and gear knob (a-la 207 GTi) and a sporty leather-wrapped flat bottom steering wheel. Safety features shared with the 308's derivative models -- including stability control, traction control and anti-lock brakes -- see it score a maximum possible five-star EuroNCAP rating.

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