Peugeot 208 receives eye-catching makeover

Peugeot 208 receives eye-catching makeover

Following the successful launch of the Peugeot 208 in July, the French manufacturer has added to its Supermini range with a GTi edition.

With an exceptional exterior design and an equally eye-catching interior, the vehicle is sure to appeal to many drivers and help build on the success achieved by the original 208 model.

Released just two months ago, the car has already chalked up 9,000 requests since the order books opened in the UK alone. Marie Beaumont, 208 GTi dynamics manager, is hoping to build on this triumph.

She explained: "The 208 was an excellent base for developing a sports hatchback. We have worked with particular attention on the steering response, the chassis dynamics and the rigidity of the suspension. The 208 GTi successfully combines performance, safety and driving pleasure."

Have a glimpse at the Peugeot 208 GTi's exterior and car lovers will know exactly what Ms Beaumont is talking about.

Its front bumper exhumes style and sophistication, as new halogen headlamps form a rectangular internal structure which work in sleek tandem with the design of the special 208 grille. Bright chrome inserts also form along this gloss black grille to create a 3D sport chequered flag effect.

Step inside the car and even more standout features will take the driver's breath away.

A dark colour scheme interrupted only by striking red highlights is a joy to behold, as is a passenger compartment which blends interior ambiance across its vents, the side decorations of the touchscreen, the dashboard design, the steering wheel insert, the seat belt and the front and rear door crossbars.

Then there is the 1.6-litre THP petrol engine under the bonnet, which partners up with a reworked exhaust system to achieve maximum torque of 275Nm and maximum power of 200bhp.

All this power is achieved without damaging the environment either, as the Peugeot 208 GTi emits CO2 at just 145g/km.

The production model of the 208 GTi is set to roll into car dealerships across Britain in spring 2013.

Posted by Craig Salter