Peugeot 208 GTi hatchback (2013-2018) - Interior & comfort
The Peugeot 208 GTi is a very usable car, but the slow touchscreen system will frustrate
Given that the Peugeot 208 GTi is a performance car, it’s actually quite relaxed on the move. The suspension delivers a good compromise: it’s firm enough to deliver a bit of excitement when you want to but damped enough to remain comfortable when you don’t. All of the controls, whether it’s the clutch, steering wheel or gearshift, are light, which is a great combination for a performance model. The sports seats are supportive, too, but the lower bolsters for your legs can dig in, which can grate on longer journeys.
The 208 GTi’s usability factor impresses too. If you’re willing to overlook the higher running costs compared to a standard 208 model, the hot hatchback is pretty easy to live with.
Peugeot 208 GTi dashboard
The GTi model has the same dashboard setup as the rest of the 208 range, which mainly consists of a small steering wheel, a high instrument cluster and a large central touchscreen. The screen controls a lot of the car’s functions, like infotainment and the satellite navigation, but it’s slow and a little unresponsive to use.
There are some subtle GTi touches like red trim pieces, sports seats and a metal gearknob. It does have a more upmarket interior than the Ford Fiesta ST, but if you’re looking for a racy and outlandish cabin, the 208 GTi doesn’t really fit the bill. Still, it’s neatly organised inside and most of the plastics used are of a decent quality, too.
Equipment
The GTi is available in two levels of trim. The GTi Prestige has 17-inch alloy wheels, rear parking sensors, a panoramic sunroof, sat nav, heated front seats and a suitably sporty bodykit.
Go for the GTi by Peugeot Sport edition and you get some unique design features, Peugeot Sport branding on the Alcantara sports seats and exterior inserts, and 18-inch alloy wheels. To save weight, there’s no spare wheel – you have to make do with a tyre inflation kit.
Options
The Peugeot Sport edition can be finished in a unique ‘Coupe Franche’ two-tone paint and all GTi models have textured and pearlescent finishes available. We recommend specifying autonomous emergency braking (AEB) for around £250, though this isn't available for the GTi Prestige. Another quirk of the GTi range is the fact you have to pay extra for sat nav on the Peugeot Sport model, despite it being standard with the cheaper Prestige car.
