Peugeot has confirmed that the iconic GTi badge will return – and it’s heading straight for the electric 208.
The French brand’s new boss, Alain Favey, says a sporty version of the current e-208 is officially in the works, marking the return of the GTi name for the first time since the 308 GTi went off sale in 2021.
“We will reintroduce the GTi on the e-208 as soon as possible,” Favey told the press. “It’s a signal that we want to reconnect with our past.”
Electric Power, Hot Hatch Vibes
Details are still under wraps, but we know the new 208 GTi will be based on the current electric version of the 208, not a future model. That means we’re likely to see upgraded versions of the existing 134bhp or 154bhp motors – or possibly something closer to the 200bhp mark.
There’s a chance Peugeot could use the same electric motor found in sportier Stellantis cousins like the Abarth 600e or Alfa Romeo Junior Veloce, which push power closer to 287bhp. That would give the GTi some proper punch to match its sporty looks.
What to Expect: Styling and Features
True to GTi tradition, the new model isn’t expected to look too over-the-top. Expect sporty tweaks like red detailing around the grille and wheels, a more aggressive front bumper, and possibly a lower stance with bigger alloys. Think hot hatch, but not boy-racer.
Inside, there could be bucket seats borrowed from Alfa’s performance cars, more red accents, and a reworked version of Peugeot’s i-Cockpit – their unique digital driver display.
And for younger buyers, Peugeot might add digital extras like lap-time trackers, g-force meters, and launch control. Nothing confirmed yet, but it would help set the GTi apart in a growing crowd of fast EVs.
A Step Away from Peugeot Sport Engineered
The decision to bring back GTi also means Peugeot is moving away from its more recent 'Peugeot Sport Engineered' (PSE) badge. The last PSE model – the 508 PSE plug-in hybrid – ended production in late 2024. The GTi name carries more history, and Peugeot’s hoping that emotional connection still matters.
Competition Is Heating Up
The e-208 GTi won’t be alone. Other brands in the Stellantis family are already playing in this space – the Lancia Ypsilon HF, Alfa Romeo Junior Veloce, and Abarth 600e all share similar bones. Outside the family, there’s the Alpine A290 and upcoming electric MINI JCW, too.
So expect the new GTi to go beyond just adding more power. It’ll likely get handling upgrades like stiffer suspension, better brakes, and possibly even a mechanical limited-slip differential to help it grip through corners.
When Can We Expect It?
No official date yet, but the car will arrive before the all-new 208 lands in 2026. That gives Peugeot time to fine-tune it and hopefully deliver something that feels every bit as fun as the GTi badge suggests.
