This Legendary Hot Hatchback Returns As An EV

The Peugeot 205 GTI was a performance icon. Now its modern successor is here, trading a turbocharged engine for batteries.

Peugeot E-208 GTi (2025)

Photo by: Peugeot

By: Roland Hildebrandt

Translated by: Patrick George

Jun 13, 2025 at 11:53am ET

Add InsideEVs as a preferred source in Google

Comment

When they think about the famous 205 GTI, Peugeot fans still lick their chops even today. But for many years, the French automaker had refrained from using the high-performance nameplate. Now it's making a comeback in the form of an electric hot hatchback, and fans should be excited.

The new Peugeot 208 E-GTi was unveiled during the 24 Hours of Le Mans. It is the first 100% electric GTi. Or as the manufacturer puts it: "The E-208 GTi embodies the spirit of the classic GTi in a contemporary, all-electric form, taking the GTi experience to a new level."

Peugeot 208 GTi 2025

Photo by: Peugeot

Forty years ago, Peugeot made automotive history with the introduction of the 205 GTi. In its 1.6-liter version (1984) and later in the 1.9-liter version (1986), the 205 GTi paved the way for a new hot hatch concept.

Over four decades, the GTi label has shaped Peugeot's history with several production models known for their performance and dynamic qualities—306, 206 (UK), 207 (UK), 205—and the history of motorsports with numerous victories, especially in rallies and rally raids.

Peugeot 208 GTi 2025

Photos by: Peugeot

Like all GTi models over the last four decades, the E-208 GTi is characterized by its strong road presence—lower and wider than its more pedestrian counterpart.

The Peugeot E-208 GTi features an exclusive, bright red body color, a nod to the iconic red paintwork popular with the first 205 GTi. The bright red floor, floor mats, and seat belts create a sporty atmosphere in the interior.

Peugeot E-208 GTi (2025)

Photo by: Peugeot

The design of the specific front seats with integrated headrests is a tribute to the seat design of the 205 GTi 1.9, with a central red decorative stripe stretching across the seat and backrest. The red mesh on the right side of the seats is reminiscent of that in the 205 GTi 1.6.

The compact steering wheel is adorned with perforated red leather in combination with Alcantara and a central red emblem. Alcantara is also found on the sides of the center console.

On the powertrain side, there is no real surprise. The key figures are also found in the electric Alfa Romeo Junior Veloce and the Abarth 600e, to name just two examples. The Peugeot E-208 GTi is equipped with the M4+ electric motor, delivering 206 kW (280 hp) and 345 Nm (255 lb-ft) of torque. The result: acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.7 seconds and a top speed of 180 km/h.

Peugeot 208 GTi 2025

Photo by: Peugeot

The 54 kWh CATL-sourced electric battery benefits from optimized management to protect it during sporty use and a specific cooling system adapted to the high performance. This gives the GTi version a range of 350 km (217 miles) in Europe's WLTP cycle, which is subject to final certification.

The E-208 GTi can be charged in four hours and 40 minutes using a 7.4 kW Level 2 charger. It can also be charged from 20% to 80% in less than 30 minutes using a 100 kW charging station.

Peugeot 208 GTi 2025, the interiors

Photo by: Peugeot

According to Peugeot, the E-208 GTi offers the best power-to-weight ratio in its segment. The chassis, widened by 56 mm at the front and 27 mm at the rear, and the body lowered by 30 mm, together with the springs and shock absorbers with special hydraulic stops, the Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires, and the rear stabilizer bar, offer an ideal compromise between sporty efficiency and everyday comfort.

What do you think?

View

Comments

The ESP system of the E-208 GTi has a special Sport mode that switches off the driver assistance systems to optimize the driving experience, like on the racetrack. The steering sensitivity of the E-208 GTi has been specially calibrated to provide particularly direct response during dynamic driving. Together with the special compact steering wheel, it should contribute to a unique driving experience.

The E-208 GTi's price and launch date haven’t been revealed yet, but it's expected to be on sale before the end of 2025.

More EV Hot Hatches

This Battery Swapping EV Hatchback Is Coming For Mini And Fiat

The Renault 5 Turbo 3E ‘Mini Supercar’ Gets In-Wheel Motors

Upcoming Kia EV1 Will Be Even Smaller And More Affordable

Mini Aceman Review: Why You Should Care If It's U.S.-Bound Or Not

VW Confirms New Electric Golf GTI Will Be FWD-Only

Volkswagen Is Working On A Bunch Of Electric GTI 'Monsters'

We want your opinion!

What would you like to see on Insideevs.com?

Take our 3 minute survey.

- The InsideEVs team