The term GT has been used extensively in the auto industry. Originally coined for the use of Grand Tourer (Gran Turismo in Italian) styled vehicles, the term now identifies and highlights sportier aspects within a model range of vehicles.
The latest vehicle for going this category is the Peugeot 208 GT - the flagship of the 208 range. This includes the following extras for the little French featherweight;
- Key exterior and interior updates
- Assertive styling
- Efficient PureTech engines which benefit fuel economy and dynamics
- Innovative i-Cockpit enhances style and ergonomics
- Sporty inside and out
- Five-star safety and sophisticated technology
- Updated headlights with daytime LEDs
There are also updates to the bumpers, giving the car a sharper, more aggressive look. There are also splatters of red paint highlighting key design features of bumpers and grills.
The interior is dominated by the innovative the i-Cockpit concept, which arranges instruments in the driver's line of sight, and acts as mission control by providing access and fingertip control of all the car's settings has become a Peugeot hallmark.
The little, dynamic 208 is powered by a 1.2-litre PureTech turbo three-cylinder engine which punches 81kW and 200Nm through the front wheels. This makes the little car efficient and nimble.
Although this car might be really efficient, luxurious and economical, is it a GT? Personally, I feel that Peugeot has missed the opportunity to stand out and give this little car the original identity that it deserves. The original meaning of GT - Grand tourer, originally meant a type of car for travelling long distance very fast in high style with the passengers' luggage.
The above definition is meant for a different category and class of vehicle, the Ferrari 250 GTO, Maserati 3500 GT, Mercedes-Benz 300SL and the Aston Martin DB5.
No disrespect to the little 208, but by no means does it stand toe to toe with the class of exotic classics listed above. If only Peugeot's marketing and brand team would spend as much time as their R&D team, they may lead the class that this car was initially intended for.
Also worth a look: the Enduring Legacy of Peugeot in South Africa: A Historical Jou and the PEUGEOT E-3008: European Car of the Year 2024 Finalist.
FAQ
Q: What does the Peugeot 208 GT cost in South Africa?
The Peugeot 208 GT typically starts around R380,000 to R420,000 depending on dealer pricing and current promotions, making it one of the pricier options in the compact hatchback segment.
Q: Is the Peugeot 208 GT worth buying?
The 208 GT offers excellent build quality, efficient performance with its 81kW turbo engine, and premium features like the i-Cockpit, but whether it's worth the premium over rivals like the Polo GTI depends on your priorities for style versus outright performance.
Q: What engine does the Peugeot 208 GT have?
The 208 GT is powered by a 1.2-litre PureTech turbocharged three-cylinder engine that produces 81kW of power and 200Nm of torque, driving the front wheels through a manual or automatic transmission.
Q: How fuel efficient is the Peugeot 208 GT?
The 208 GT's efficient PureTech engine delivers impressive fuel consumption figures of around 5.5 to 6.2 litres per 100km depending on driving conditions and transmission choice, making it economical for daily use.
Q: Is the Peugeot 208 GT a true GT car?
Whilst Peugeot calls it a GT, the 208 is more of a sporty hatchback than a traditional Grand Tourer, lacking the long-distance cruising comfort and performance heritage associated with classic GT cars like the Ferrari 250 GTO or Aston Martin DB5.
Should You Buy It?
The Peugeot 208 GT at around R400,000 sits in an awkward spot where it's too expensive to be the best value hot hatch and not quite thrilling enough to justify the GT badge. If you're after genuine driving excitement under R450,000, the Volkswagen Polo GTI or Ford Fiesta ST offer more bang for your buck. However, if you prioritise French flair, excellent build quality, and that distinctive i-Cockpit experience over outright performance, the 208 GT makes sense. It's a solid choice for buyers who want something different from the German norm, but don't expect it to set your pants on fire at the traffic lights.
