Peugeot 208 GTi Concept debuts ahead of Geneva Motor Show

Peugeot has released its new GTi Concept, based on the 208 supermini, which is set to be revealed at next month’s Geneva Motor Show. Although the concept is being revealed at the motor show, the model has already been approved for production, and is expected to be released later this year at the Paris Motor Show, to go on sale in 2013.

The 208 GTi is a three-door hatch back with exterior features like a set of five-spoke alloy wheels, and an aero kit with wheel arch extensions, side skirts, a mesh grill, roof spoiler, and rear diffuser housing dual chrome tailpipes.

Inside, the model comes with a leather steering wheel with a flat bottom, Alcantara trim on the dash, with a cloth panel stretching thought the center, aluminum pedals and sport seats with Nappa leather trim.

Power is made by a 1.6-liter turbo four-banger putting out 200 hp at 5,000 rpm and 188 lb-ft of torque, 203 lb-ft including overboost. The front wheel drive model comes with a 6-speed manual gearbox, as well.

Additional modifications add 36mm to width on the front and rear tracks, a new break system, and a re-tuned suspension.

The concept is an attractive one both inside and out, so hopefully when the production model debuts little will be changed.

– By: Alexandra Koken