Introducing the hottest ever version of Peugeot’s stunning two-door sports coupe – the RCZ-R.

First launched back in 2010, the RCZ broke the mould with its sensual feline curves and sporty, individually designed interior.  Four trim levels make up the range – Sport, GT, Red Carbon and this new R.

Since launch, mainstream Peugeot petrol and diesel engines have been offered: a 156 bhp and 197 bhp 1.6-litre THP turbo and a more economical 163bhp 2.0 HDI diesel.  While the RCZ’s asthetic design has never been in question, its performance (depending on engine choice) has – a criticism being that it didn’t perhaps go as well as it looked.  Well, any doubts about performance have been well and truly quelled with this much more extreme R model. So extreme, it can lay claim to being the most powerful road-going car that Peugeot has ever sold. At its heart is a vast range of mechanical upgrades that wouldn’t look out of place in a racing car.

Inspired by the Peugeot RCZ Racing Cup track car and riding 10mm lower to the ground, the new range-topping two-seater sports coupé is powered by a heavily reworked version of the firm’s 1.6-litre THP turbocharged petrol engine, which now produces 270bhp at 6,000 rpm and 330Nm of torque from 1,900rpm to 5,500rpm.

In order for the car to cope with an additional 70 bhp, engineers at Peugeot Sport in Paris have reworked almost every component in the engine, including reinforced heat treatment, new stronger pistons and polymer coated con rods.

Also new is a specially strengthened six-speed manual transmission, uprated clutch, larger intercooler and new twin-scroll turbocharger. The exhaust has also been modified; linked to the draw of the engine’s air intake, featuring an enhanced ‘sound system’ to amplify the sporting character of the new RCZ R’s engine. It certainly works, providing an intoxicating growl when accelerating, although when just cruising on the motorway this slight ‘booming’ can become a bit wearing.

Other performance upgrades include a Torsen® differential for additional grip, while the front and rear track have been widened to increase traction. There’s also bespoke dampers and stiffer springs. This translates to significantly higher levels of grip and cornering speeds than with other RCZ’s, although as always, the payoff is ride comfort, with the R feeling pretty firm much of the time – especially around town.

The Peugeot RCZ R rides on unique two-tone 19-inch alloys shod with Goodyear Eagle F1 tyres for increased road-holding. There’s also new larger four-piston brakes which quickly bring the R to a hault.

It will sprint from 0-62mph in 5.9 seconds and accelerate on to an electronically limited top speed of 155mph. Despite the car’s performance credentials, efficiency (145g/km of CO2) and combined economy (44.8mpg) remains similar to that of the 197 bhp engine. Of course, that’s when driving gently – and it’s unlikely you’ll want to do that… such is the amount of entertainment on offer, unleashed by the mere prod of your right foot.

But you’ll need to be careful when you do this to avoid the front wheels spinning and the steering wheel tugging in your hand – the by-product of 270 bhp being channelled through the front wheels. However, torque steer can be avoided if you feed in the power progressively. It takes a bit of practice but once mastered, it actually becomes satisfying feeding in the power gradually and increases driver engagement with the car.

In the cabin sporty details separate the R from other RCZs, including red stitching, flat bottomed steering wheel and supportive leather and alcantara Recaro sports seats. It certainly meets the brief of luxurious sportiness.

Elsewhere the switchgear is identical to other Peugeot models and while perfectly functional and pleasant to look at, it does seem to lack the extra quality feel of some German rivals.

The Driving position is comfortable, with plenty of steering column adjustment, and space for front occupants is generous. The same can’t be said for the rear seats – which are only suitable for small kids or luggage. The boot is surprisingly big though and access good.

 

Verdict:

Any doubts over the RCZ’s performance credentials have been well and truly laid to rest – the R is a seriously quick machine.


Tech spec:

Peugeot RCZ-R
Price OTR: £32,000
Engine: 1.6 litre four-cylinder turbo
Transmission: Six-speed manual, front-wheel drive
Power/torque: 270bhp/330Nm
0-62mph: 5.9 seconds
Top speed: 155 mph
Economy/CO2: 44.8mpg/145g/km
Insurance group: 42E