Peugeot 208 GTi by Peugeot Sport tops renewed 208 range

There was little doubt that the Peugeot 208 GTi 30th Anniversary’s changes would eventually spawn a permanent model in the range. The Peugeot 208 GTi by Peugeot Sport features all the changes you’ll find in the sold-out 30th Anniversary cars, now sitting as a range-topper above the regular GTi and new GTi Prestige models.

Peugeot Sport alterations include a lowered ride height, wider track, 18-inch alloy wheels, and matt black exterior detailing on the two-tone paintwork, adding a welcome dose of aggression to the standard 208 shape.

Other 30th Anniversary touches included to enhance the GTi’s driving characteristics include Brembo brakes, a Torsen differential, tuned suspension and steering, and a set of Michelin Pilot Super Sport tyres.

Inside, the GTi by Peugeot Sport also gets a set of wildly-bolstered bucket seats and some red floor mats. The rest of the interior – including Peugeot’s unusual ‘i-Cockpit’ with its raised dials and tiny steering wheel – is as you’ll find on the regular GTi.

The 208 GTi 30th Anniversary featured a host of small engine tweaks over the regular GTi. While some of these allow the upgraded 1.6 THP engine to slip into the Euro 6 emissions band, they also liberated a little more power – 205bhp at 5800rpm and 221lb ft at 1750rpm, up from 197bhp and 201lb ft. Naturally, these changes will carry over to the new car.

For those seeking a little pizzazz in their Pug without committing to the new range-topper, Peugeot has also introduced GT Line trim to the 208 range.

Engine choice consists of a 108bhp, 1.2-litre PureTec petrol, and 97bhp or 118bhp 1.6-litre diesels. You can opt for a three- or five-door shell, while specification builds upon existing Allure trim.

There’s a new grille and front fog light finishers, 17-inch alloy wheels, black door mirror caps, chrome window surrounds and a chrome exhaust finisher. GT Line badging completes the exterior alterations, while black and red sports seats and similarly-coloured interior trimmings define the GT Line’s cabin.

All new 208s receive small exterior alterations, new LED signatures in the front and rear lights and a host of new alloy wheel and exterior finish options. One of those is textured paint, as found on the 30th Anniversary GTis. It costs the same £645 as you'll pay for pearlescent finishes.

The refreshed 208 range starts from £11,695 for a 1-litre Access-badged model, while the GTi range now begins at £19,145. You'll pay £19,995 for a GTi Prestige, while the Peugeot Sport-fettled GTi sits at £21,995. All are available to order now.