Peugeot has released “The Saga of Peugeot GTi”, a book covering more than four decades of the brand’s compact performance cars. It ties in with the launch of the new E-208 GTi and the 40th anniversary of the 205 GTI 1.9. The 132-page book costs €35 and is available in English and French.

Peugeot is marking two milestones with one book. “The Saga of Peugeot GTi” is published by Sofia Editions and sold through the Peugeot Lifestyle online shop. It arrives as the brand launches the all-electric E-208 GTi and as the 205 GTI 1.9 turns 40.

From 105 hp to 281 hp

The book follows Peugeot’s small performance cars from the original 205 GTI to the new E-208 GTi. In that time, peak output has grown from 105 hp to 281 hp. According to the manufacturer, the aim has stayed the same throughout: driving pleasure.

Peugeot has used the GTi name on the 205, 309, 308, 208 and now the E-208. The book also covers models that shared the same idea under different badges. Depending on the market and the era, the 106, 306, 206 and 207 were sold as RC, S16, GT or GTi versions.

Road cars and rally cars

The book covers both the road cars and their competition versions. The best known of these is the 205 Turbo 16, the Group B car that won the World Rally Championship in 1985 and 1986. Peugeot says it inspired the E-T16 Concept, which appeared alongside the E-208 GTi at the 2026 Paris Motor Show. At that show, Peugeot gave the E-208 GTi its own day on the brand’s stand on 17 October.

The publisher says the book includes historical documents and first-hand accounts from people involved in the GTi story.

Foreword from the CEO, preface from an F1 commentator

Peugeot CEO Alain Favey wrote the book’s editorial. He links the new electric model directly to the GTi badge’s history:

“Today, this PEUGEOT GTi legacy commits us, compels us… and excites us! What a pleasure it is to launch the PEUGEOT E-208 GTi! And what a powerful symbol it is to reinvent the GTi legend with the E-208, the latest iteration of a PEUGEOT 2-series that, ever since the 205, has remained the beating heart of our brand.”

The preface is by Julien Fébreau, Formula 1 commentator for Canal+ in France. He describes himself as part of the “GTi generation”:

“If the GTi continues to make the hearts of so many enthusiasts race, it is because it is about more than just technical specifications or raw performance. For many of us, it evokes unique memories, intense emotions and, in deep, a certain vision of what the automobile is all about.”

What it means

It is common for carmakers to use their history when launching a new model. Here the timing is deliberate. By linking the electric E-208 GTi to the 205 GTI, Peugeot presents the new car as the next chapter of a well-known name rather than as a new direction. Whether buyers accept a battery-powered GTi will be decided on the road. The book makes clear how Peugeot wants the car to be seen.

Facts: The Saga of Peugeot GTi

  • Publisher: Sofia Editions
  • Length: 132 pages, 132 pictures
  • Languages: English or French
  • Price: €35
  • Where to buy: Peugeot Lifestyle website shop

The book is on sale now through the Peugeot Lifestyle online shop.

Source: boutique.peugeot.fr