Peugeot's Hot And Heavy 308R Concept Is Heading To Frankfurt And We Can't Wait

Peugeot has been making a number of statements of intent recently. With the domination of Pikes Peak and, in the 208 GTi, a genuinely decent return to the hot hatch fold, the Frenchmen must be feeling confident. That confidence is evident in this: the 308R Concept, a hot version of the new 308 hatchback that will debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show.

Developed by Peugeot Sport, the concept is powered by the same 270bhp, 1.6-litre engine that's in the RCZ R, which should see it do a 0-60mph time of around 6 seconds. Power is transferred to the front wheels through a 6-speed manual gearbox and Torsen mechanical limited slip differential. Uprated stopping power comes from Alcon brake discs - 380mm at the front, 330mm out back - grabbed by four-piston calipers.

The 308R Concept is very loosely based on the new standard model, sharing only the roof and tailgate. For everything else there are new panels made from carbon fibre which, along with the wider track, give the R a more aggressive stance. There are also massive air intakes out front, new LED headlights and a lairy two-tone paintjob.

Emphasising the sporty credentials, the 308R has been lowered by 26mm, and sits on 19" alloy wheels. The overhangs have been reduced and the cockpit has been designed with the driver in mind, so it should be a hoot to hoon.

Although currently only a concept, it seems like everything is in place to put this into production if the reception is positive. A production version would be pitched against the big boys of the hot hatch world such as the Ford Focus ST and VW Golf GTI, and with Peugeot's current form we wouldn't bet against the 308R becoming a giant killer.

With Toyota giving more details on the Yaris Hybrid R, the competition is set for a hot hatch showdown in Frankfurt next month.