Peugeot confirms hybrid performance model

The French marque says it will develop “a new range of electrified sports vehicles” set to go on sale in coming years.

The models will be developed in conjunction with Peugeot Sport, which is currently responsible for the 308 GTi and 208 GTi duo.

Peugeot has flirted with the notion of a high-performance hybrid hot hatch in the past, unveiling an electrified 308 R Hybrid concept car (pictured) in 2015.

That car combined the regular 308 GTi’s 200kW, 330Nm 1.6-litre four-four-cylinder turbo engine with electric motors on the front and rear axle. Capable of pitching in an additional 86kW and 200Nm each, those electric motors took peak power to a remarkable 373kW and 770Nm - enough to hit 100km/h in four seconds before maxing out at 250km/h.

While that combination was a little too wild for production, Peugeot chief executive Jean-Phillipe Imparato promises the new machines will bring “driving pleasure”.

“Electrification is a new opportunity to offer new high-performance versions to our customers looking for low-emission sports sensations,” he says.

“Driving sensations will be amplified by the performance provided by electrification.

“New territories to be explored, new challenges to be met, the adventure of the Peugeot brand continues for an exciting future. Boredom will never be part of our DNA.”

The new models may debut on next-gen versions of the 308 and 208 hatchbacks. Peugeot’s current duo first went on sale in 2013 and 2012, suggesting they will be ready for replacement by the time hybrid performance models reach the public in 2020.

Peugeot's confirmation of a hybrid performance future came alongside news it will pull out of World Rallycross competition at the end of this season, citing frustrations with the series' delayed progress toward electric power.