Peugeot’s 308 GTi Hatchback Arrives in Argentina

SAO PAULO – Peugeot launches sales of its 308 GTi 5-door hatchback in Argentina.

A sport version of the Peugeot 308 jointly developed with BMW, the GTi features a 1.6L 4-cyl. engine producing 200 hp at 5,800 rpm and 203 lb.-ft. (275 Nm) of torque. Mated to a 6-speed manual transmission, the GTi can accelerate from 0-60 mph (0-100 km/h) in 7.7 seconds and has a top speed of 147 mph (237 km/h).

The French import is priced at 197,000 Argentine pesos ($45,000).

The launch comes as industry officials announce car sales in Argentina could reach an estimated 800,000 units this year, up 18% from 2011.

Meanwhile, Volkswagen Brazil produces its 7 millionth Gol small hatchback. Launched in 1980 as the successor to the VW Beetle, the Gol was the country’s best-selling car for 25 years. More than 1 million models have been exported to 66 countries, the auto maker says.