Ah well, this is good news. Following the announcement of a
208 GTI 30th
anniversary, Peugeot has confirmed the car's spec. And having worried that it would simply be a new paint job, it's pleasing to report some interesting mechanical changes too.
Paint scheme optional. Phew
As well as another 8hp and 18lb ft over the
GTI
(up quite intentionally to 208hp and 221lb ft), the 30th anniversary comes with plenty of modifications from Peugeot Sport to take it beyond the standard car. The Torsen LSD and six-speed 'box from the
RCZ R
are added, the tracks are wider (22mm front, 16mm at the back) the suspension geometry is altered and the driver aids are 'less intrusive'. All good news as far as PH is concerned. 'Comprehensive' probably best describes the changes from GTI to 30th anniversary, as we've not even mentioned recalibrated springs and dampers, revised steering system or bigger brakes (323mm fronts with Brembo four-pot calipers) yet...
That power gain actually comes from a new 1.6-litre THP engine, meaning CO2 is down to just 125g/km but 0-62 takes 6.5 seconds. And it's got stop start. Take that Fiesta ST.
And fear not, the 30th anniversary doesn't have to be painted in the 308 R-aping paint job. The textured black/lacquered red combo can be replaced with either Pearl White and Ruby Red thankfully. All 30th anniversary GTIs come with new 18-inch wheels on Michelin Pilot Super Sports and matt black accents replace the chrome on the standard GTI. There are the obligatory badges adorning inside and out too.
So well done Peugeot for proving the doubters wrong and (hopefully) delivering a car fit to mark the 205 GTI's 30th birthday. After a Goodwood reveal the 208 will make its full public debut at the Paris show before sales begin in November. Somewhere near £20K and Peugeot could well be onto a winner.