PEUGEOT has at last created a pocket-rocket which truly evokes some of that 205 GTi magic.

Bringng back the spirit of a legend isn't an easy task but the latest 208 GTi comes the nearest yet over the past three decades.

Visually, the hot-rods are worlds apart, but there are common links and both cars ooze discretion and sublety compared to some of their overt counterparts.

Sometimes less is more and that's proved the case here with the simplistic, bold and curvy contours embracing chunky wheel arches, chrome trim and double tail pipes that hint at the peformance in store.

It is interesting to compare the dynamics, engine output and capabilities of the latest GTi with that of the original 1984 supermini GTi.

For instance, the legend's 1,905cc engine developed 128bhp while the smaller, more efficient modern equivalent at 1,598cc punches out considerably more at 198bhp.

Acceleration to 60mph in 7.8 seconds back then in the 1980s was very quick and today's GTi is only a second quicker registering the 0-60mph dash in 6.8 seconds.

Of course, today's highly-tuned turbocharged petrol unit is a much greener and more efficient unit but has stricter safety and environmental guides to meet. Nevertheless, the 1.6-litre THP engine, mated to a six-speed gearbox, delivers lightning fast responses that evoke the spirit of the hallowed 205 GTi model.

The harder you work this engine the better it reacts. Basically, it thrives on being thrashed, but even the slightest dab on the gas pedal ensures a quickfire response. Despite its performance capability, the modern-day GTi still manages a cool fuel return - an average of 47.9mpg.

Lowered by 8mm and with wider front and rear tracks, the 208 feels more glued to the road than its immediate predecessor, the 207, and it handles superbly, creating confidence on fairly demanding switchback routes in the rural outback.

The car is confidence-inspiring and this comes partly from its agility and precise steering as much as from the low-slung chassis and general surefootedness. The high-performance brakes are spot on and what you expect from a hot-blooded hatch.

Steering is well-weighted but does quite make the mark on feedback. However, the close-ratio six-speed gearbox is light, slick and responsive and perfectly matched to the torquey 1.6 unit.

At all times, the 208 GTi feels beautifully balanced and controlled and despite its high-octane performance the ride isn't too firm and rigid.

On the contrary, the lowered 208 manages to dilute the effects of surface bumps and scrapes while ensuring driver and occupants travel comfortably without compromising its sporty edge.

Despite its compact dimensions, the three-door only 208 GTi can accommodate five in reasonable comfort, make it four on a long trip - and still offers a decent-sized boot at 285 litres.

Inside, the black part-leather, part-cloth upholstery and leather-clad dashboard immediately transport the GTi into the premium class. There's flashes of red and satin chrome everywhere. Details like the red stitching on black abound and make the cabin look really special.

Sports seating, embossed with GTi logo, both hug and support and the leather-clad steering wheel and gearknob, aluminium pedals and red lettering on the aluminium door sills look the business.

The classy performer, here in Prestige specification, also features a fabulous panoramic glass roof with ambient lighting, just in case all that black leather and red highlighting gets too much. There's also heated seats, sat-nav and 17-inch black alloy wheels.