Earlier this year we took delivery of a 207 GT, a fleet-friendly warm-hatch powered by a 150PS version of the 1.6-litre turbo petrol engine, which also appears in the Mini Cooper S but in 175PS form.
Now Peugeot has put the 175PS version in the 207 and badged the car GTI. But, unfortunately, the GTI has lost one of the key ingredients that makes the GT such a good car – its all-round ability. The suspension has been stiffened to the point of discomfort, and while the car is substantially faster, sportier looking thanks to a new front spoiler and rear wing, and has excellent seats, we’re glad we’re running the GT in long-term test and not a GTI.
Verdict: Not the hot-hatch we had hoped for