At this year’s Goodwood Festival of Speed, Peugeot will unveil the RCZ R, a super-performance version of its popular Sports Coupé, evolved from the expertise of the brand in terms of design and driving experience.
Its new THP engine produces 270bhp from its 1.6-litre displacement and CO2 at only 145g/km places the RCZ R with performance and unprecedented efficiency. To harness this considerable power RCZ R is equipped with a Torsen®differential for the promise of grip efficiency and dynamic sensations at a very high level. RCZ R will take its formal reveal at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September 2013 and will be on sale early in 2014.
With 270bhp (199kW) RCZ R is the most powerful production model in Peugeot’s long and illustrious history. The RCZ R accelerates from 0 to 62mph in less than six-seconds and demonstrates the expertise of the brand with CO2 contained at only 145g/km, which leads the category of performance Sports Coupés. This is achieved by utilising the downsizing capacity of the engine, saving weight and ensuring aerodynamic optimisation.
Matt black roof arches distinguish and adorn the RCZ R. Its suspension is lowered by 10mm and the alloy wheels are 19 inches in diameter to optimise grip and give the RCZ R an expressive posture. Its bespoke alloys have a two-tone diamond / black matt, technical and sporty finish with an ‘R’ monogram milled directly onto a visible part of the alloy wheel. They have been designed to accommodate and optimise the cooling of new larger brakes, the red calipers at the front are signed ‘Peugeot Sport’.
The perfectly integrated large fixed rear spoiler, ensures better downforce while stretching the silhouette’s rear profile view. A specific rear diffuser meets the smooth effect that characterises the back of RCZ and includes two chromed exhaust pipes, located symmetrically, and a reworked exhaust system for performance and sound.
A Peugeot monogrammed ‘R’ in red lettering is identified on the grille and also placed on the boot lid as a signature ‘RCZ R’.
Available in 4 colours: Moroccan Red, Nera Black, Mercury Grey and Opal White, RCZ R also offers a range of custom made satin or gloss carbon roof treatments, decal designs and black mirror shells.
A high level of safety equipment and comfort is available on RCZ R with Xenon projector headlamps with washers. A full multimedia system WIP (World of Peugeot) Nav Plus is standard too.
Opening the door reveals a cockpit of purpose, dedicated to delighting the sensations of the driver it instantly immerses the ‘driver’ in a sporting, subtly elitist atmosphere.
From the ‘Peugeot Sport’ embossed sills, to the quality of detailing of the red stitching on the dashboard, and leather steering wheel, gear lever gaiter, door panels, armrests and seats – all contribute to an appealing and sporty interior ambience.
The seats are specifically of a new sports design, dressed in a mix of full grain Nappa leather and black Alcantara and branded with the monogram ‘R’. On the centre console a chrome plate confirms the character with a red inscribed ‘R’ emerging from a certification plate of brushed aluminium with four visible screw fixings. Inspired by aviation, it symbolises the hallmark of ‘Peugeot Sport’.
When entering the vehicle, the driver discovers an ergonomic driving position, ideal for enjoying the dynamic qualities of the RCZ R. The smaller steering wheel and short shift gear stick with a specific aluminium knob have red highlights which compliment the bespoke bucket seats developed by Peugeot Sport.
The exhaust system has an enhanced Sound System linked to the draw of the intake and amplifies the sports character of the new RCZ R engine.
The sporty nature of the RCZ R is reflected in its performance figures, with a maximum speed of 155mph (electronically limited), a 0 to 62mph (100kph) achieved in 5.9 seconds, the 400m standing start in 14.2 seconds and 1000m in 25.4 seconds. The times are also very low from 50 to 70mph, which takes just 6.8 seconds in (6th) top gear.
