First drive: Peugeot 308 GT
* First drive of 175bhp warm hatch * Power from turbocharged 1.6 petrol engine * Prices start from £18,995 for three-door...
If the letters G and T make you think of a cooling drink rather than a hot hatchback, you probably won't see the appeal of the latest fast Peugeot.
However, if a chic French hatchback with some extra fizz sounds refreshing, the 308 GT might be just the tonic you're after.
Performance
The extra sparkle comes from the same turbocharged 1.6-litre petrol engine found in the 207 GTI. This effervescent engine serves up 175bhp, helped with a large does of low-down pulling power.
Okay, the performance isn't quite of the 40-per-cent-proof variety you expect from a hot hatch - the 0-62mph dash happens in 8.3sec.
However, it's still got enough of a kick to give you the giggles, because it's responsive and eager to rev.
Ride and handling
It's a shame the handling isn't quite so intoxicating.
The 308's suspension has been lowered and stiffened for the GT, which means terrific grip and solid body control. Hit a bump mid-corner, though, and you feel shockwaves shooting through the car.
The same bumps ricochet viciously through the steering, even though it offers you little feedback. The ride is bone-jarring, too.
Styling
Still, at least you won't need beer-goggles to find your GT attractive.
A lowered front bumper gives the nose an aggressive look, while a rear spoiler, 18-inch alloys, bi-xenon headlamps and lowered ride height complete the sporty effect.
Inside, you'll find aluminium finishes on the pedals and gearstick to give the plushly trimmed cabin a sportier feel.
What do you get for your money?
At £18,995 for the three-door and £19,595 for the five, the GT certainly isn't cheap.
However, your cash buys you goodies such as dual-zone climate control, Bluetooth phone connection, stability control and parking sensors.
Peugeot 308 GT
Price from £18,995
Power 175bhp
0-62mph 8.3sec Top speed 140mph
Economy 37.1mpg CO2 g/km/tax 180/24%
Insurance group TBC Airbags 7
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