Peugeot 205 (2025): The feared rival of the Renault 5

It would be an exciting rivalry... in the electric segment.

Peugeot 205 2025 regreso

Photo by: Peugeot

By: Fernando Moreno

Published by: Brian Potter

Jan 30, 2025 at 6:25am ET

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If there's one eighties classic that Peugeot should revive, it's undoubtedly the 205. We're convinced it would generate the kind of buzz that the Renault 5 E-Tech did, and would mark the return of an extraordinary rivalry between the two models... 40 years later.

Furthermore, Stellantis has enough ingredients to produce it at low cost. We are talking about the Smart Car and CMP platforms (or the future STLA Small) and electric motors ranging from 113 to 280 PS, which are already used in other zero-emission cars from the multinational.

The sketch that illustrates this article is a recreation of the modern 205 GTI, and we're really excited about it, because it retains the look of the original model, but is suitably modernised, and Peugeot would certainly have a backlog of orders!

Gallery: 1983 - Peugeot 205

1983 - Peugeot 205

Can you imagine a 205 T16 with 280 PS, front-wheel drive and special tuning? It would be powered by the same engine as the Alfa Romeo Junior Veloce or the forthcoming Lancia Ypsilon HF, capable of accelerating from 0-62 mph in 5.9 seconds (in the case of the Alfa).

And for those who do not wish to switch to electric mobility, and thus distance themselves from the R5, which does not have a partially electric option, we have also added the 136 PS light hybrid engine to the range.

Unfortunately, the Lion brand does not have a new 205 in mind, even though Renault's revival formula is working like a charm. Luca de Meo's project will continue this year with the new Renault 4 and in 2026 with the future Twingo.

The classics are back... (just a few)

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Resurrected Renault 5 now available at just £249 a month

What do you think?

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For the time being, Peugeot is relying on its existing range to create electric versions (E-208, E-308, E-3008, E-4008 and E-5008), so they are not particularly eye-catching. In fact, they are difficult to distinguish from the conventional versions.

If the Renault 5 succeeds in changing Europe's attitude to electric cars, the other brands should take note of the lesson and work on vehicles that are aesthetically exciting. With the 205, Peugeot would undoubtedly have a great opportunity to seize.

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