It must be open season on hot hatches at the moment, because every marque seems to be souping-up their standard three-doors to win new customers. Peugeot is the latest to nose up to the lights with its update of the 206 GTi.
That car may have met with a lukewarm welcome, but Peugeot has been in the hot hatch game longer than most, setting the pace in 1984 with its super-quick 205 GTi - a car that could still give a few contemporary models a run for their money today.
Stylistically, the 207 GTi is pretty distinctive, with its huge 'grinning' front grille and sweeping headlamps framing Peugeot's lion badge, air intake and chrome-rimmed fog lamps. It looks the part of a GTi - with the intent of its expressive front aspect softened only marginally by its contoured hindquarters - and it does a good job of standing out from the crowd.
The GTi may share the same profile as a 207 hatchback, but Peugeot has made some subtle exterior enhancements. A high tailgate spoiler optimises aerodynamic performance; Bridgestone Potenza tyres on 17-inch, nine-spoke wheels help traction and grip; and dual exhausts add a sporting note to the engine.
There are plenty of useful interior features too: rear parking assistance, a speed limiter with cruise control, tyre-inflation sensors, automatic headlamps, rain-sensing windscreen wipers and large, folding door mirrors - useful for spotting overtaking taxis or rogue minibuses. Dual-zone air conditioning and a CD player complete the package.
Peugeot has given the cabin a sporty makeover, with bucket seats, an adjustable leather steering wheel, ergonomic, sculpted front seats and a racing-inspired instrument panel. Rear passengers have modelled seats - also offering excellent lateral support - with retractable, curved head restraints.