IT MUST be tough to be the quiet achiever, otherwise Peugeot wouldn’t be trying so hard to get people to notice its 308 GTi 270.

A couple years back it dropped the less powerful and grippy 250 horsepower variant to focus solely on its halo steed. We didn’t mind, because a recent spin in the newly updated 270 reveals how much of a force it is on the road.

Big brakes with floating discs retard speed at an alarming rate and its Michelin Super Sports hold on to roads with claw-like tenacity. That teeny-weeny turbo inline-four belies its 1.6-litre capacity and pulls as if the car weighs a feather. And at 1176kg, it might as well be.

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Yes, there are typical French quirks like its ridiculous augmented engine sound and the low steering wheel position. But that shouldn’t distract you from its hushed cabin with Volkswagen-rivalling finish and build quality.

To get more people interested, Peugeot has just slashed its RRP by $4000, driving it down to $45,990. It’s also updated its front and rear LED lights, along with bumper designs, and embellished its infotainment with phone-friendly Apple CarPlay tech.

MORE 308 GTi 270 vs Megane RS275

Anyone in the market for a Golf GTI should drive the GTi, it stands as a proper hot-hatch with a premium feel and a pinch of French flair that might be all difference.

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2018 PEUGEOT 308 GTI 270 SPECS:

Engine: 1598cc inline-4, DOHC, 16v, turbo Power: 200kW @ 6000rpm Torque: 330Nm @ 1900rpm Drive: front-wheel Weight: 1178kg Price: $46,990