Hot Peugeot takes cue from 70s

Peugeot 20 GTi. Photo / Supplied

Peugeot is preparing to unleash a hot GTi version of its new 208 hatch and the ingredients are right for it to be one of the most exciting Peugeots since the 205 GTi of the 1970s. The picture of the 208 GTi is a computer rendition of spy shots taken last month of prototype testing in Sweden.

Like the 205 GTi, which was offered with 78kW 1.6-litre and 95W 1.9-litre engines, the 208 will come with a choice of power outputs. The tamer version will feature a 125kW version of the 147kW 1.6-litre turbocharged engine under the bonnet of the Peugeot RCZ coupe.

Expect a 0-100km/h sprint time of about seven seconds and a best fuel economy of 5 litres/100km.

The quicker car is likely to be badged "GTi Racing" and run the full 147kW RCZ Coupe engine.

Expect a sprint time of six seconds and a top speed of 230km/h.

The interior will get sports seats and GTi badges, while the exterior will feature bigger alloys, a pumped-up bodykit and larger foglights. At the back, a roof spoiler and twin exhausts finish off the makeover.

Peugeot boss Jean-Marc Gales told reporters at last year's Frankfurt motor show that the GTi will return to the model's roots, focusing on "precision, allure, style, driver control and excellence".

The 208 GTi will have plenty of rivals, as the Ford Fiesta ST is expected before the end of the year, and there's an all-new Renaultsport Clio arriving in early 2013.

There's no official release date for the 208 GTi, although it it likely to be unveiled at the Paris motor show in September.

The three-door car was spotted during cold weather development work. It didn't sport the aggressive rear wing or bespoke front grille that is expected to feature on the final GTI version.

The telltale signs that it was the hot version of Peugeot's 208 include the twin exhausts and the low-profile suspension.

The final GTi will have its own wheel designs and tyre sizes, sports seats and special interior decor.