Peugeot 308 GTi for Europe but not for UK – sort of

The Peugeot 308 GTi – but only for Europe

Peugeot has launched the 308 GTi as a Europe only model. The UK won’t get it because it’s not a real Peugeot GTi.

Well there’s a headline that will need some explaining. But let’s start with the easy bit – Peugeot is launching the Peugeot 308 GTi in to the European market. Which is nice and straightforward. A feisty, fun, chuck-about Peugeot GTi – just like we all remember and want. Not quite.

The Peugeot 308 GTi that’s being launched in Europe will come to the UK, but not as a 308 GTi. Why, you may ask? Because apparently “…it is not [going to be] called GTi as the car is not a GTi as we would know it”. And that’s from Peugeot UK. So what does the rest of Europe get as a GTi and we’ll get at some point – but with a different – and, we assume, less evocative –  badge?

Well, it’s a 5-door and only a 5-door and gets the 1.6 litre turbo MINI lump, which will be good for 0-60mph in around 7.5 seconds. There’s a new suspension and steering setup with a lower ride height and 18″ alloys. Cosmetically there’s a dash of a carbon-look across the front bumper, a spoiler on the roof, a rear diffuser and twin chrome tipped exhausts.

Inside sees a set of sports seats, flat-bottomed leather steering wheel, piano black trim and a dollop of ali for the gear knob.

Peugeot UK have told us they hope to let us know in the next couple of weeks what the 308 GTi is going to be called when it gets to the UK.

For now, it’s a Euro only car at €26,900.