Peugeot 208 GTI review

The good thing is, it’s a far more convincing hot hatch than either the 206 or 207 GTI. It feels like Peugeot has actually put some effort into this one and the result isn’t too bad at all. Not perfect, mind you, because if we were being picky we’d like it to have more handling sparkle and a zingier engine. But if you’re driving it every day there’s a lot to be said for a car that’s torquey, well mannered and has enough edge to its handling to be engaging when you want. It’ll even pick a rear wheel high up into the air should you find a suitably tight corner.

More steering feel would be good, though, and while the ride is supple most of the time, it doesn’t feel so professional at low speeds. But this is a rapid, flexible hot hatch that copes well with broken British roads, and for Peugeot that’s a big step forward.