The Peugeot 208 was unveiled nearly seven years ago and now we’re finally getting a good glimpse at the next-generation model.
Snapped undergoing testing in Southern Europe, the redesigned 208 GTi looks pretty promising despite being covered by extensive camouflage. A large part of this is due to the fact that the hatchback will adopt the same design language which debuted on the stylish 508 and 508 SW earlier this year.
Starting up front, the car has a slender grille which is flanked by distinctive lighting units that feature three vertical elements. Further below, there’s a large lower air intake and fang-like LED daytime running lights.
The model has a pronounced front overhang, but it appears the car will have streamlined bodywork and a stylish shoulder line. The hatchback also adopts a more rakish windscreen and a traditional greenhouse.
The rear end is more evolutionary and we can see the 208 will have a large spoiler and 508-inspired taillights. The car also has a dual exhaust system and a license plate area which has been relocated to the bumper.
Peugeot has been tight-lipped about specifications, but the 208 will ride on the new EMP1 architecture which will debut on the DS3 Crossback. Engine options could be shared between the models, but there’s no word on specifics as the DS3 Crossback won’t be unveiled until the Paris Motor Show this fall.
While engine options remain a mystery, Peugeot has already confirmed plans for an electric model which will ride on the e-CMP architecture. The model is expected to have a 50 kWh lithium-ion battery pack and an electric motor that produces around 113 hp (84 kW / 115 PS). This setup may enable the hatchback to travel more than 279 miles (450 km) between recharges.
Peugeot styling guru Gilles Vidal has suggested the electric variant will closely resemble the standard model as he previously stated “We do not need to shout about the fact that this car is the electric version.” He added the upcoming 208 EV will “complement the 208 range, rather than become its own version.”
There have been rumors that the 208 GTi will also be offered in electric guise. That’s unconfirmed at the moment, but it would be interesting to see a small electric performance hatchback.