The 308 GTi is a small to medium-sized family hatchback produced by Peugeot, and one thing it knows how to do is turn heads! It was initially launched in mid 2007 as part of the X08 generation of cars to usher the French auto giant into the 21st century.
A Series Two 308 GTi was launched at the Geneva Motor Show in late 2011. The first thing everyone noticed is that it was given an almost entirely new exterior makeover, taking in a new back matt grille, tailgate spoiler, oversized LED headlights, sleeker front and rear bumpers, chrome embellishments all around and LED rear lights. As a finishing touch, all these outstanding improvements were topped off by stunning alloy wheels on 225/40 R18 all-season tires. All of these were changes were designed and assembled to succeed in providing the GTi with a particular sporty flair, but in an attractively subdued way.
The Peugeot 308 GTi Hatchback is powered by a 1.6-liter four-cylinder direct-injection turbo engine that is paired up with a six-speed manual transmission to delivers an impressive 200 horsepower and 203 pound-feet of torque. If you have familiar with the Peugeot line, then you know that thiss is substantial power compared to others in the line.
To ensure a smooth ride, the 2012 Peugeot 308 GTi Hatchback has been fitted with Macpherson struts in the front and torsion beam suspension in the rear, which is paired up with front and rear stabilizer bars. This allows the vehicle to absorb bumps and holes in the road and deliver a pleasant ride to all passengers. The 308 GTi's ride height is around 4 inches lower than the standard hatchback, measuring at 52.5 inches. By lowering the center of gravity proportionally, it makes for an ideal front wheel drive set up. This is a vehicle that is responsive, handles turns beautifully and does not deliver a ton of body roll.
At 168.3 inches long and 71.5 inches wide, the 308 GTi seats three back seat passengers in comfort, on a 60/40 split folding rear seat, and it manages to provide more than enough leg room for all. Carrying luggage will present little problems for this nippy Peugeot as it offers around 25 cubic feet of space, with the back seats up. However, if you need a little more space, 70 cubic feet becomes available if you bold the back seats down, which is incredibly easy to do within seconds.