When Peugeot announced that the GTi version of its new 208 would make its production debut at the Paris Motor Show we all assumed it would be the centrepiece of the French manufacturer's stand. The GTi stands a chance of looking tame beside the just announced 208 Type R5 though.
Packing a 280hp turbocharged 1.6-litre petrol engine, five-speed sequential transmission and four-wheel drive, the Type R5 would genuinely eclipse the GTi were it not a motorsport model.
Built to replace the 207 Super 2000 the 208 Type R5 has been designed for use on tarmac and gravel stages in the FIA's new R5 category for production derived models. To qualify for the class Peugeot must build 25,000 examples of the 208, so the R5 is slated to go on sale in the second half of 2013.
The R5 has a lot to live up to, as its predecessor won six intercontinental rally titles, many crowns in national championships and numerous victories worldwide including San Remo, the Tour de Corse and the Monte Carlo. It does benefit from a lower kerb weight and longer wheelbase than the 207, attributes that Peugeot Sport says should make the car more agile, efficient and with better road holding abilities.
The R5 category has been devised by the FIA to reduce costs for competitors. The maximum price for cars has been set at €180,000 (excluding taxes) with all cars featuring four-wheel drive, a five-speed sequential gearbox, no central differential and long travel suspension, widened tracks, a spoiler, an increase in wheel arches to fit 18-inch wheels and minimum weight set at 1,200kg for both gravel and tarmac versions.