If you liked the Peugeot RCZ but felt it was underpowered, you weren’t alone. Luckily, the RCZ R is going to make amends. Under the bonnet of this new flagship lies the same 1.6-litre turbocharged THP engine found in the current RCZ and the 208 GTi but it has been tuned to provide a more grin-inducing 260bhp, making it the fastest production Pug ever.
The Peugeot RCZ R boasts an impressive 160 ponies for every per litre, yet its CO2 emissions are the same as of the THP 200 model. That said, the extra 60bhp is probably going to dent the 42.1mpg figure somewhat.
Unfortunately Peugeot is keeping performance figures under lock and key, but we can speculate that sizeable dollop of power will significantly reduce the 0 to 62mph time of 7.6 seconds with the 6-speed manual equipped.
Peugeot is keeping most of the specs close to its chest, but we do know the RCZ R will have a bespoke suspension setup, unique wheels and a Torsen limited slip differential to ensure the 260bhp goes where it needs to.
This is a top-of-the-range Pug so expect automatic headlamps and wipers, a 7-inch infotainment system with navigation and, presumably, lots of RCZ R branding and unique detailing throughout.
The RCZ R sounds like a winner and it looks fantastic – those alluring bronze roof arches and the matt black paint job nod towards the Onyx concept supercar – but it does have tough competitors to beat in the form of the VW Scirocco R and the Audi TT.
Peugeot will be showing off two red RCZ R cars at the Goodwood Festival of Speed. Expect to hear more details, when you can buy one and the price nearer the event in July. Stay tuned.
Peugoet RCZ R Pictures
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