Peugeot retires GTI badge, says no more hot hatches will appear
The hot hatchback market definitely has many members these days, from the Golf GTI to the Ford Focus RS or Honda Civic Type R. But an iconic series of models paved the way for these models in the hearts of many people: Peugeot’s GTI lineup.
Mostly remembered due to the fantastic 205 GTI, which made history not only on the streets but also in rallying, the brand has made many fans up until now. And it seems like they will be in for quite a disappointment, as the French carmaker announced that it will not be using the GTI badge for any other hatchback models.
“For us, the GTI concept is dead,” said Peugeot marketing director Christian Stein. “We will move away from hot hatches towards premium sports coupes. The GTI means a lot to English people but it is time to move on.”
Although Peugeot made lots of heads turn when it introduced the RCZ, in my mind they should still focus on the GTI badge and many other hot hatchback models. What do you think? Should the French carmaker revive the “dead” GTI badge? Leave a comment with your thoughts.
Source: Autocar
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I cannot believe they are stopping the GTi! I think this will lose a lot of money for the French car makers.
It will be a real shame as Peugeot was regarded as one of the best car manufacturers for the hot hatches.
“For us, the GTI concept is dead,” said Peugeot marketing director Christian Stein. “We will move away from hot hatches towards premium sports coupes. The GTI means a lot to English people but it is time to move on.”
It’s a bit like McDonalds deciding not to sell burgers…
“For us, the burger concept is dead,” said McD’s marketing director. “We will move away from burgers and fries towards escargot and foie grass. The burger means a lot to English people but it is time to move on.”
How do you say ‘D’oh’ in french?