Peugeot e-208 GTi officially unveiled with 281 hp and up to 233 miles range

The long-anticipated Peugeot e-208 GTi high-performance hot hatch has finally been announced and offers a familiar, but slightly different design compared to the regular e-208. The GTi version, of course, comes with GTi-intrinsic red accents around the exterior, a 208 GTi C-pillar badge, rear spoiler and 18-inch perforated wheels that reference the iconic "holed" wheels found on the Peugeot 205 GTi.

Peugeot e-208 GTi

When it comes to actual hardware, the hatch runs on a 281-hp M4+ electric motor developed at the Tremery production plant in France, previously known for engine manufacturing, but now specializing in electric powertrains. It's part of the E motors joint venture between Stellantis and Nidec Leroy Somer.

Peugeot is particularly proud of the motor as it offers the best-in-class power-to-weight ratio - 5.5kg/hp and can make the e-208 GTi accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.5 seconds.

Peugeot e-208 GTi

The motor is paired with the same 54 kWh battery as the standard e-208, but an improved cooling system maintains a more appropriate temperature for optimal performance. It's also enough to keep the wheels spinning for up to 233 miles as per WLTP data. But that depends on the tires. You get the 233 miles range with the Hankook Ventus S1 Evo3 tires, while the Michelin Pilot Sport 4S performance tires, which come as standard, bring down the total range to 219 miles.

Peugeot e-208 GTi

You can charge the battery from 20% to 80% in under 30 minutes when plugged into a 100 kW DC charger. The vehicle also supports the V2L (Vehicle-to-Load) feature to power external devices.

Peugeot e-208 GTi

To improve dynamics and stability, Peugeot made some adjustments to the chassis and suspension. Engineers lowered the clearance by 0.98 inches, widened the tracks by 2.2 inches at the front and by 1.1 inches at the rear. They also installed an additional 1.22 inches rear anti-roll bar in addition to the 0.67 inches already present front one.

The e-208 GTi also gets specific springs and dampers with hydraulic bump stops used by Peugeot Sport in WEC.

The interior is equipped with red-accented carpets, floor mats, seatbelts and front seats akin to the Peugeot 205 GTi 1.9 and a red mesh detail that reminds of the 205 GTi 1.6. The front seats are supportive yet comfortable with integrated headrests.

Peugeot e-208 GTi

Even the digital displays offer a red theme along with the ambient lighting. Of course, you can change the ambient lighting to seven other colors.

Orders are now open, and the new Peugeot e-208 GTi starts at €42,900 in France and £34,995 in the UK.

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