Peugeot 308 GTI set for Goodwood

Good News for hot hatch fans with long memories: Peugeot will bring a brand new 308 "performance model" to this year's Goodwood Festival of Speed.

Yep, following the company's recent run of actually-rather-good performance cars - stuff like the 208 GTI 30th and RCZ R - which succeeded a run of not-actually-rather-good performance cars, Peugeot has confirmed to TopGear.com that next month will see the debut of a harder, faster 308.

This is great for anybody who remembers the 205 GTI and 306 GTI-6, though less great for those who remember the 207 and 307 fast hatches.

Sadly, this new performance 308 won't be the 308 R: though a Megane RS-rivalling range-topper has been all but confirmed - complete with input from Peugeot Sport and packing the RCZ R's 270bhp turbo'd four-cylinder - the new car at Goodwood will slot under that, and above the 308 GT.

First drive: the Peugeot 308 GT

Peugeot hasn't released any information on the upcoming 308 GTI, but expect a 1.6-litre turbo engine, likely making something in the region of 240-250bhp, leaving space above it for that 308 R.

A while back, we spoke to Peugeot about the potential for a new 308 GTI, with Christophe Valet, the company's ride and handling expert, explaining what alterations would have to be made to the standard car.

"For a GTI," he said, "we'd reduce suspension travel, lower it, and introduce stiffer springs and dampers to have better body control." Predictable perhaps, but also welcome, as was mention of bigger brakes and quicker, weightier steering.

Valet was quick to point out the shortcomings of the previous 308 GTI (which we never got in Britain) too. "It was, in my opinion, not a very sporty car, it was a bit more comfort-orientated," he said.

Reckon Peugeot can crank out a genuine Golf GTI/Focus ST rival in the shape of a new 308 GTI? Or is the ‘R' the one you're really waiting for?

Peugeot's 308 R Hybrid concept is a 500bhp hot hatch

Pictured: current Peugeot 308 GT