Peugeot 208 Type R5. A Winning Formula?

Given the astronomic rise of Citroen, the timeless links of both Subaru and Mitsubishi, the esteemed success of Toyota, and the iconography of Lancia, it’s sometimes easy (albeit unfair) to forget the role Peugeot has played over the years in the World Rally Championship.

This is a marque, after all, that has won three WRC Championships (and a further two Group B Championships), more than 43 WRC series rallies, and counts among its list of previous drivers former-WRC Champions Marcus Gronholm, Richard Burns and Stig Blomqvist. It seems rather appropriate then that the first image of Peugeot’s new 208 Type R5 rally car is shrouded in shadow.

So far only this solitary pic of the Type R5 – which will make its debut at this month’s Paris Motor Show – has slipped through the French firm’s grip, though they have been very generous with regards specs. Boasting an 1.6-litre turbo EP6 DCT powerplant and 280bhp, this new model runs to S2000 specifications, meaning four-wheel drive, a five-speed sequential gearbox, and two self locking differentials.

After a few banker events next year, the Type R5 will take on the national and international stage in 2014, the most prolific events of which be on the Intercontinental Rally Challenge circuit. Though not set to hit the gravel before next year, new pics of Peugeot’s latest will at least hit the internet on 27 September.