Peugeot continues to refrain from bringing back the GTI and Rallye badges to its new models; however, this has not stopped Stellantis Motorsport from developing a new competition version of the 208.
This is the 208 Racing, which benefits from an upgraded turbocharged engine, as well as a more refined chassis configuration and the high safety standards typical of this type of model.
Designed to participate in the FR6 Trophy, a new trophy organized by the French Federation of Motor Sports that will be part of the French Rally Cup starting next year, this 208 Racing is based on the “normal” 208 and is equipped with white wheels, lime green details in the daytime running lights, and a white body paint with specific decorations.
Inside, there is a safety roll cage and an automatic fire extinguishing system, which are mandatory according to Rally4 regulations. Additionally, the dashboard has been optimized to avoid reflections and features a multifunction display, a kill switch, and specific controls on the central console.
Stellantis Motorsport also revealed that the specific competition electronic architecture facilitates data collection and analysis of sporting performance.
Under the hood, this 208 features an evolution of Stellantis’s 1.2-liter three-cylinder turbo gasoline engine, which produces 145 hp, meaning it has 45 hp more than the production Peugeot 208. The power is transmitted to the front axle via a short-ratio six-speed manual transmission.
The engine runs exclusively on superethanol-E85 fuel, which reduces CO2 emissions by about 30% compared to gasoline. Stellantis Motorsport engineers also adjusted the suspension and braking systems using feedback from professional race drivers. Finally, the standard Michelin Pilot Sport PS5 tires help to lower maintenance costs.
Stellantis Motorsport announced that the 208 Racing costs €38,900 and that the ordering period has already started, with the first deliveries expected in February 2025.
