Peugeot has surged ahead in the electric hot hatch segment with the unveiling of the E-208 GTi, becoming the first manufacturer to bring a fully electric performance hatchback to market, outpacing rivals like Volkswagen, who have so far only revealed a concept. Reviving the GTi legacy in a bold new form, Peugeot’s latest creation represents the brand’s inaugural all-electric vehicle, developed by Peugeot Sport.
The E-208 GTi carries the torch from where the petrol-powered 308 GTi left off in 2020, marking a new chapter in the storied GTi lineage. While Peugeot continues to spell “GTi” with a lowercase “i,” the essence remains unmistakably performance-focused. Following the release of the hybrid 508 PSE, this electric model becomes the company’s next performance milestone.
Powering the E-208 GTi is a significantly enhanced electric motor producing 280hp and 345Nm of torque. This represents an impressive increase of 124hp and 85Nm over the standard E-208, delivering the kind of thrust expected from a true hot hatch. The result is a 0–100km/h sprint in just 5.7 seconds, with a top speed of 180km/h.
In prioritising dynamic performance, Peugeot has accepted a trade-off in efficiency. While the standard E-208 boasts a WLTP range of up to 433 km, the GTi version sees this reduced to 350 km due to its performance-focused tuning. The battery remains the same 54-kWh pack used in other E-208 models, and it supports DC fast charging at up to 100 kW, allowing a 10 to 80 per cent recharge in around 30 minutes.
Underneath, the GTi has undergone a comprehensive chassis upgrade. Peugeot has installed a sports-tuned suspension system that lowers the ride height by 30 mm. The front and rear tracks have been widened by 56 mm and 25 mm, respectively, giving the hatchback a more planted, aggressive posture. Completing the stance are model-specific 18-inch alloy wheels inspired by those on the original 208 GTi, wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres sized 215/40 R18.
Performance enhancements continue with a self-locking differential integrated into the gearbox, a new rear anti-roll bar, and larger 355-mm front brake discs gripped by four-piston calipers. Peugeot has also made it possible to switch off all driver assistance systems instantly via the dedicated Sport driving mode, giving enthusiasts full control when desired.
The visual design is equally performance-driven. Aerodynamic tweaks include a front splitter and a rear diffuser featuring an integrated LED fog lamp. The car is available in a striking red finish that pays homage to the legendary 205 GTi, one of the brand’s most iconic performance models.
Inside, the cabin has been meticulously reworked to evoke nostalgia while meeting modern expectations. Redesigned front seats with integrated headrests reference both the 205 GTi 1.6 and 1.9, featuring a red central stripe and heritage-inspired seat fabric on the passenger side. Alcantara upholstery, unique floor mats, and a red GTi badge on the compact steering wheel round out the sport-focused interior.
Peugeot has chosen the Le Mans 24 Hours weekend to debut the E-208 GTi, a fitting venue for a vehicle that seeks to fuse the brand’s rich performance heritage with the future of electric mobility.
