Peugeot’s 500PS 308 R Hot Hybrid Makes Its European Debut

The monster that spawned the 270 PS Peugeot 308 GTi is present at Frankfurt.

Boasting a super-aggressive lines, a wide stance and a gorgeous blue color – complemented by a questionable matte-black livery – the 308 GTi’s madder, angrier brother is on display at Frankfurt.

Called the 308 R HYbrid, it’s nothing short of a monster. Ok, maybe the term is overused, but how else could you describe a 500 PS (that’s 493 HP), all-wheel-drive hatchback that can sprint from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 4 seconds and can cover 1 kilometer from a standstill in 22 seconds? How?

Its state-of-the-art powertrain consists of a 1.6-litre, 4-cylinder petrol engine (the 270PS/266hp unit found on the “regular 308 GTi) and two 85kW (115PS/114hp) electric motors, one on each axle. That makes for a 60 percent front and 40 percent rear weight distribution, but that’s because the front section of the vehicle bears the 6-speed transmission, the standard engine and the electric motor. Still, with a power-to-weight ratio of 3.1kg/PS, the weight distribution shouldn’t… matter, especially as the Pug offers multiple power and torque settings at the driver’s disposal.

Aesthetically, the 308 R Hybrid is one of Peugeot’s most meanest-looking cars ever, shadowing even the 205 T16. It has scoops, louvers, creases, 80mm (3.15in) widen tracks and a set of beefy 235/35 R19 wheels and tires combo. Of course, the massive air scoops located in the front and rear bumpers are there to draw in cold air for the electric units and battery pack.

Even though Peugeot isn’t associated with high-performance hybrid automobiles, the French car maker’s maddest hour is astonishing, to say the least, and we’re still hoping the 308 R HYbrid will make into production.