A pointer to future Peugeot models at the Geneva Motor Show next month when the French giant unveils two new 208-based concepts – the sporty GTi and plush XY. Technically both are ‘concepts’ but you can take it as read they’re both slated for production.
Hot hatch fans will be buoyed by the news of the Peugeot 208 GTi. Powered by the same 147kW/275Nm turbocharged 1.6-litre powerplant employed by Pegueot’s RCZ sports car and driving through a six-speed manual transmission, the newcomer rekindles memories of the excellent 205GTi with brushed aluminium GTi badges on the front grille and rear three-quarter panels.
Underneath, the 208GTi enjoys 36mm wider front and rear tracks, lowered, sports suspension and 302mm/249mm brake discs with red-painted calipers.
At the front, the grille mesh also carries the French tri-colour or Union Jack. There are also side skirts, spoilers front and rear and chrome-tipped exhausts.
Inside the Peugeot 208 GTi gets the usual treatment – perforated leather steering wheel, aluminium pedals, alcantara fascia, leather-wrapped sports steering wheel, LED back-lighting for the instruments and Nappa leather, double-stitched sports seats with embossed tartan inserts and aluminium rim highlights.
On the other hand, style and luxury are the hallmarks of the Peugeot XY – although the 86kW 1.6-litre e-HDI diesel and six-speed manual transmission will supply zippy performance for this city-based vehicle.
‘Crimson’ is the Peugeot XY’s preferred colour shceme and the special 16-coat ‘Pulsion’ paint appears to change colour as the car moves.
Inside, the crimson colour is combined with pearl grey pleated leather seats to provide a luxury style. Leather features throughout including dashboard, armrest, gear-lever and even the floor-mats and edging for the panoramic glass roof. Trim highlights are coloured in gunmetal and there is white ambient lighting.
