Peugeot 308 GT: Fast Francais

Motoring Channel Staff - 21/February/2008

Paris, France — Only a few weeks after Peugeot launched the new 308 European hatch in Australia, priced from $25,990, and the sporty version broken cover.

French automaker Peugeot has taken the covers off the new 308 GT, the first hot hatch in the new 308 range. 

It is being shown at the 2008 Geneva Motor Show, and will go on sale in Europe from April. 

Like the 207 range, this new 308 model is also likely to be followed by an even more powerful 308 GTi version, which will get an engine with even more grunt.

The new 308 GT is powered by a 1.6-litre turbo 4-cylinder petrol engine that drives the front wheels. It outputs 130kW (175hp) @ 6000rpm and 240Nm of torque @ 1600rpm. 

The engine can also squeeze out more torque for short periods of acceleration using the overboost feature, which takes maximum twist to 260Nm. This feature helps when overtaking or improving standing starts.

Peugeot claims that the turbo engine "provides excellent in-gear acceleration and levels of driveability normally associated with a larger capacity engine."

Peugeot hasn't said how fast the 308 GT will be from zero to 100km/h, but it is expected to be around 8.5 seconds, making the vehicle more a mid-level performance hatch than a full blown hot hatch.

As well as a performance boost, Peugeot has given the 308 GT a sportier, more suitable design to reflect its power increase. It sits on 18-inch alloy wheels with high performance tyres and the new model has also been lowered to give a sportier look.

The new front apron has a more aggressive design than standard 308 models, while the rear end gets new bumper treatments with greyed-out sections and a stubby roof spoiler. 

It is strange that no exhaust pipe is showing at the rear, as this aspect is often used a performance-enhancing design cue.

Standard equipment will include 6-speed manual gearboxes, a strong compliment of airbags, stability control and a number of sporty items such asan aluminium gear knob, alloy foot pedals and a trendy new steering wheel.

The new GT model is expected to compliment the current Peugeot 308 range, but may not be coming to Australia until later in the year.

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