Peugeot 208 GTi Review: A Hot Pug You Can Be Proud Of
Pros
Cons
Is it fast?
The new 208 GTi is as fast as the competition – Fiesta ST and Renault Clio RS included – so yes, it has a decent turn of speed. The GTi’s blown 1.6-litre THP engine makes 197bhp, which equates to a 0-62mph time of 6.8sec and a top speed of 143mph.
Is it sexy?
We'd be lying if we said the standard 208 was Amber Heard hot, but Susan Boyle it certainly isn't. The addition of GTi butchness has made this car more appealing to the eye, however. Highlights include 17-inch wheels, red brake calipers (tasty), front and rear spoilers and twin chrome exhausts. You’ll also find GTi badges on the rear-quarter panels (like on the 205 GTi), which is a cool touch.
What’s it like to drive?
It’s been a few years since anyone's sincerely been able to say: “I fancy going for a drive in my Peugeot”. But you know what? This Pug is a driver's car.
The 208 GTi is a well-sorted pocket rocket, with great balance, decent feedback through the steering wheel and plenty of power. While it’s not quite as poised and willing to dance on the limit as the Fiesta ST, the GTi feels light (which it is at just 1160kg) and darty, which is exactly what we were hoping for but never expected.
The 1.6-litre engine – the same you get in the drop-dead gorgeous RCZ – is strong and rev-happy, and the 6-speed manual gearbox good to use. Grip levels are decent (thanks in part to its specific Michelin boots) and turn in rapid. The GTi’s tweaked suspension is also comfortable and sporty.
How about the inside?
It’s a great place to be. The seats are comfortable and pretty supportive, there are nice flashes of colour on the dashboard and door inserts and the quality of materials is high. The steering wheel is go-kart-like small, and while people often complain about "not being able to see the speedo," just jack the seat up a notch and move on. Simples.
Will my mates rate it?
The 208’s an attractive three-door hot hatch with strong performance and a nice interior so yes, it will find favour with your mates. Shock horror.
Can I afford it?
A fiver under £19k bags you the car you see here, so it’s not the cheapest out of the hot hatch trio. It is the most comfortable, however, so if that’s your criterion then you’ll be hard pushed to find a better alternative. Purists among you will save £2k large, however, and go with the Ford.
Show me three used alternatives
If cheap thrills are your bag, go for the VTS. Its 1.6 kicks out 117bhp, which is good for 0-62mph in 7.8sec. It’s a car that loves to be chucked into a corner and parts are dirt cheap to source too. Just watch those stupid mods and check the tyres for scrubbing and suspension for dodgy knocks. An unmolested one comes in at £1650.
It’s the granddaddy of hot hatches and an absolute icon. The 205 GTi offers bucket-loads of fun, great performance – with both the 1.6 and 1.9-litre engines – and impossibly cool retro looks. Prices for 205 GTis are on the increase so now’s the time to strike. This mint condition car’s up for £3k.
Ask anyone to name a hot hatch, this is the car they’ll allude to. The 182 is the best second hand hoon mobile on sale, offering dynamic handling, sublime performance and amazing value for money. A good condition 2005 Cup version is yours for £3500.
Comments
No comments found.