A Peugeot icon returns at Geneva

Peugeot will reveal two concept cars in Geneva, which present two expressions of the Lion Brand's upmarket trend in the supermini segment, writes Trish Whelan.

The XY Concept is intended for city dwellers who love distinction and refinement, whereas the GTi Concept (pictured) re-generates an iconic legend.

The XY is full of urban chic and is powered by a 1.6 e'HDi engine developing 115bhp and equipped with a 6-speed manual gearbox. With a special 'pulsion' paintwork, the XY Concept appears to constantly change, depending on the distance and the position from which you view it. This is based on the very precise application of sixteen coats of paint and lacquer. The car rides on dual-effect 18-inch alloy wheels.

The GTi Concept, the performance icon of the 208, has exterior sporty features including chequered-flag motifs, double chromed exhaust tailpipes, aero lower bodywork spoilers and lower sill skirt extensions. On the inside, the cabin is a true GTi environment with sports seats trimmed with Nappa leather on the outer section and cloth in the centre with an embossed tartan motif, a leather head restraint as well as a red perforated leather steering wheel.

It takes its propulsion from the powerful RCZ THP 200 engine, combined with a 6-speed manual gearbox. It has a wider track at the front and at the rear, and a rear roof spoiler to generate down force at speed.