MIAS 2016: Peugeot 308 GTi makes Philippine debut

Peugeot Philippines has introduced a sporty hatchback dubbed as the 308 GTi at the 2016 Manila International Auto Show (MIAS). Described to deliver a “thrilling driving experience.”

For the uninitiated, the 308 GTi was first previewed during the Goodwood Festival of Speed in June 2015. The vehicle was developed by Peugeot Sport and it’s basically the performance version of the standard 308 model which won the 2014 European Car of the Year.

Being the “sportier version,” the 308 GTi sits 11mm lower to the ground as compared to a standard 308. It’s also painted with a very eye-catching two-tone exterior paint.

Up front, the 308 GTi has sharp-looking LED headlights, large air intakes, corner splitters, and a glossy black grille. Turning at the side, the hatchback is characterized by sharp lines while the 308 GTi’s side skirt and 19-inch lightweight alloy wheels add to the overall sporty look of the vehicle. The rear, on the other hand, comes with distinctive taillights, a roof-mounted spoiler, a muscular bumper, and dual exhaust pipes.

Inside, the 308 GTi has a black interior theme that’s highlighted by red stitching and aluminium trims. It has a flat-bottom steering wheel featuring the GTi logo and a straightforward center console. The 308 GTi is also equipped with a driver oriented touchscreen placed at the center, as well as a push start button and an electronic parking brake.

What’s really matters, however, is what lies under the hood.

The Peugeot 308 GTi is powered by a 1.6-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine that delivers 270 hp and 330 Nm of torque. It’s then mated to a six-speed manual gearbox. With this, the French automaker claims that the 308 GTi can go from 0 to 100 km/h in 6 seconds before reaching an electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h.

For more information about Peugeot 308 GTi, visit AutoDeal Car Guide.