Oh Yes the GTi is back

Just like anything the French design, it is sexy and stylish and so totally adorable. Designed for the young at heart, the new Peugeot 208 GTi is spacious and comfortable but forget about putting the kids in the back seat. This ride is your own, and the kids stay at home.

The new Peugeot 208 GTi is designed for those enthusiasts with an appetite for elegance, originality and performance, but also the individual who recognises the need for efficient, economical and eco-responsible motoring.

"The arrival of the 208 GTi is the next chapter in the unfolding story of the Peugeot 208's success, both globally and here in South Africa," says Francis Harnie, managing director of Peugeot South Africa. "Not since the legendary 205 GTi, has a small performance hatchback created so much interest, and offered such a convincing mix of attributes."

Harnie believes the arrival of the 208 flagship will not only broaden the nameplate's reach, but will also serve to underline the specific appeal of the entire range.

'It's our image builder in this segment, but many of the GTi's stand-out talents, including its low kerb mass, excellent chassis, tactile quality levels and drivetrain efficiency, are shared by the entire model range."

The new Peugeot 208 GTi, with its 147 kW turbocharged engine, is the latest in a long line of compact performance hatchbacks, the most famous of which is the legendary 205 GTi, which was originally launched in 1984 with a 77 kW 1,6-litre engine.

So enthralling was the 205 GTi that its reputation for exceptional dynamics continues to this day, and also served as the inspiration for the all-new, 208 GTi.

The new Peugeot 208 GTi is the flagship of the range; it offers a comprehensive array of standard features. The standard specification includes remote central locking, dual-zone climate control, electrically operated windows and exterior mirrors, auto-activating headlights and windscreen wipers, cruise control, speed limiter, and front and rear parking sensors.

The cool ground-breaking feature on the 208 GTi is the Park Assistance system, which allows for automated parallel parking. A further improvement is the full-colour touchscreen display, which also serves as the key interface infotainment system. Ergonomically located within easy reach of both front occupants, the touchscreen offers intuitive operation.

The new Peugeot 208 GTi is designed for fast efficient cruising. It is young and fresh and so responsiveperfect for anyone who appreciates sophisticated driving experience. Test drive one today at Peugeot Umhlanga, 190 Ridge Road, and tell us what you think.