Peugeot 308 GT Unveiled Ahead of Paris Motor Show
Peugeot has revealed the 308 GT in both hatchback and SW estate forms, offering buyers a choice of petrol and diesel engines and a sharper chassis tune.
Peugeot has officially revealed the 308 GT, a new performance-oriented variant of the 308 range, ahead of its public debut at the 2014 Paris Motor Show. The 308 GT will be offered in both five-door hatchback and SW estate body styles, positioned above the standard models but below the anticipated GTI in the line-up.
The new 308 GT is aimed at drivers seeking more performance and sharper handling than the regular 308, but who may not want the full hot hatch experience of the upcoming GTI. Peugeot is offering the GT with a choice of two engines: a 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol and a 2.0-litre BlueHDi diesel.
Engine choices and performance details
The 1.6-litre THP petrol engine produces 202 bhp and 210 lb-ft (285 Nm) of torque, delivered through a six-speed manual gearbox. Official figures put combined fuel consumption at 50.4 mpg (4.66 l/100 km) and CO2 emissions at 130 g/km. The diesel option, a 2.0-litre BlueHDi, develops 178 bhp and 295 lb-ft (400 Nm) of torque. This version is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, and claims an average of 70.6 mpg (3.33 l/100 km) with 103 g/km CO2 emissions.
| Engine | Power (bhp) | Torque (lb-ft/Nm) | Transmission | Fuel consumption (mpg/l/100km) | CO2 (g/km) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.6-litre THP petrol | 202 | 210/285 | 6-speed manual | 50.4/4.66 | 130 |
| 2.0-litre BlueHDi diesel | 178 | 295/400 | 6-speed auto | 70.6/3.33 | 103 |
While Peugeot has not released detailed performance figures such as 0–62 mph times or top speed, it has confirmed that both versions benefit from a retuned suspension setup. The car sits lower than the standard 308, by 7 mm at the front and 10 mm at the rear, aiming for improved dynamics and a more purposeful stance.
Design and equipment
The 308 GT receives a series of visual upgrades to set it apart from lesser models. These include unique alloy wheels, a more aggressive front grille, LED lighting, and subtle GT badging. Inside, buyers can expect sports seats, aluminium pedals, and bespoke trim details. Both hatch and SW estate versions are included in the launch, giving buyers a choice between practicality and a more compact profile.
Market context and rivals
Peugeot’s move follows a familiar pattern among European manufacturers, offering a sportier model below the full hot hatch. The 308 GT will compete with the likes of the Volkswagen Golf GT and Ford Focus ST-Line, targeting buyers who want more engagement without the running costs or insurance premiums of a GTI or RS model. For those interested in the most powerful 308, the true GTI version is still to come, with prototypes already spotted testing.
Public debut for the 308 GT is set for the Paris Motor Show in October 2014. Sales are expected to follow soon after, with full pricing and specification details to be announced at the show.
For more on the evolution of the 308 range, see our coverage of thePeugeot 308 GTI spotted undisguised ahead of Goodwood debut.
