Peugeot 308 GTi

Sportiness to the maximum in a utility vehicle and even with a marked sense of family. That is what can be found in the Peugeot 308 GTi.

The model is designed by Peugeot Sport, the French-flag automaker’s rally car division. The same one that has won five constructors ‘titles and four drivers’ titles in the World Rally Championship. Therefore, its sporty spirit and design stands out.

It has been mounted on the same platform as its “normal” 5-door brother (the Citroën C4 Picasso), with only slight touches on its bodywork and interior details.

But what really makes this car special is its powerful engine.

Motorization and mechanics made to fly

There is only one option regarding this machine that the Peugeot 308 GTi offers. And given its characteristics, nothing else is needed.

It is a model known as THP of 1.6 liters of capacity, gasoline and with a modest power of 270 Horsepower. Going from 0 to 100 km / h is an action that can be done in just 6 seconds.

For some time there was rumor about a slightly less pretentious starter or access motor, with about 250 horsepower. However, the engineers of the French house dispensed with this and finally  opted only for the maximum power without mitigating.

It is accompanied by a six-speed manual gearbox. It can also be combined with the new automatic transmission that accompanies some of the latest Peugeot models, such as the 308 five-door or the 308 SW. It is the EAT8, a device that, as its name indicates, works with 8 relationships.

The Peugeot 308 GTi: details that make the difference

Few, but significant changes offers the GTi version of the Peugeot 308, compared to the “current” hatchback versions.

The front keeps the grille above the bumper and the lion, the company’s unmistakable emblem, right in the middle. The lights have integrated LED technology, and include daytime running lights. On the other hand, the air intakes are now crowned by a chrome trim on the top.

At the rear there is a double exhaust pipe that does double duty. On the one hand, it contributes to the overall performance of the machine. On the other hand, it is another example of sportsmanship and in a certain sense, even aggressiveness.

For those looking for a car outside of ordinary patterns, this model can come out from the dealerships with a two-tone mosaic. Black on the tail (from the middle of the two rear passenger doors). And red or blue in the front area.

A sportier body

The Peugeot 308 GTi body is 11 millimeters closer to the ground. Made with the purpose of reducing resistance and facilitating the “leisurely” walk of this unique machine. This is not an appropriate vehicle for certain types of uneven floors or road surfaces.

In its internal aspect, we find a carefully lined steering wheel in leather. In addition, it bears the initials GTi in red or blue, depending on the body tones. This is a synthesis of the sporting spirit of the car and of all its drivers. For the seats, the same pattern (upholstered in black leather with blue or red details).

As we can see, there is ergonomics and sportiness at maximum power, following a bit in the style of some models of chairs for gamers. Remember that sporty driving is not incompatible with road safety. Some aspects are very important to take into account. This is the case of the position of the hands on the steering wheel, or that of the feet.

Technology and finishes

Being the highest-end of the entire current generation of the Peugeot 308, the GTi model does not overlook important details, such as:

• The driver’s seat, in addition to its aggressive design, also has a massage function.
• 8 ”capacitive touch screen, with connected 3D Navigation. It indicates from the possible places to park, to the areas with external dangers. It also offers the Mirror Screen mode, to enjoy all the options of the Smartphone in hands-free mode. Compatible with Android, iOS and Windows Phone.
• Peugeot SOS Connect and Peugeot Services. Both are systems that ensure the safety of the driver and other crew members. They also operate to communicate to the company about the general condition of the machine and even automatically put a review by an authorized agent on the agenda.