Peugeot has turned up the GTi heat
bursts in from just 1,750. It is also extremely quick, with a top speed of 146mph.
Despite the power available, official fuel consumption is over 50mpg – I managed just over 36 - and CO2 emissions are just 130g/km.
In many ways, the GT is much like other well specced versions of the 308. However, nudge the ‘Sport’ button on the centre console and its engine sound, piped through the car’s speakers, is electronically manipulated to be beefier and gruffer. It also turns the dials red, tightens up the steering and sharpens the throttle response.
The instrument panel also changes to display the power and torque delivered, turbo pressure, longitudinal and transverse acceleration and other completely unnecessary ‘sporting’ data. The GT is good but it’s not a track day car.
So, so far, so good. It’s got the looks and the power, but can it provide GTI levels of excitement behind the wheel?
Peugeot say the GT’s suspension set-up has been given specific settings to suit the engines and the spirit of the car. The focus was on a performance-orientated and dynamic drive with excellent body control while still maintaining a high level of comfort.
To achieve this, engineers worked on all the settings to provide precise control on the extremes of road conditions, providing secure driving and avoiding unwanted over or under-steer.
For example, the passive dampers react instantly to adapt to the type of driving.
So, the answer to that question is ‘Yes, sort of.’ It is admirably quick, the gearshift is light and slick, and the variable electric power steering is remarkably accurate and wellweighted, putting those grippy Michelin Pilots exactly where you want them.
Its purposefully-soft suspension sometimes struggles to cope with the GT’s extra horsepower and a proper hot hatch would no doubt provide more initial excitement. But, where it scores extra points is that very suspension which, on rough country roads, keeps the GT composed and comfortable, cushioning the lumps and bumps felt so much more keenly through stiffer set ups.
Peugeot have come up with a remarkable balancing act with the GT – with a price tage of £24.095 a car which is fast and slightly furious but also stylish and comfortable.