Though a new car can never be judged solely on spec, the vitals released today by Peugeot on the
RCZ R
certainly appear impressive: 270hp, 211hp per tonne, 0-62 in 5.9 seconds, 155mph and 145g/km aren't to be sniffed at.
Still a pretty car, now pretty quick too
already known
, the source of the RCZ R's power is a tweaked version of the standard car's 1.6-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine. Modifications include forged aluminium pistons, new conrods and a redesigned twin-scroll turbo. Peak torque is rated at 243lb ft and is delivered between 1,900 and 5,500rpm, dispelling any notion that 168hp per litre would make for a peaky engine. It's further evidence that downsizing is compatible with high performance demands; here's hoping
Cosworth
can make its 1.6-litre turbo work too.
And don't think the engine has been prioritised ahead of the other dynamic components. Weight is down over the RCZ 200 by 17kg to 1,280kg for a start. Not a lot, admittedly, but if Lotus can advertise a similar weight loss as a Club Racer package, Peugeot is probably justified in advertising the fact. Moreover, the front brakes use four-pot calipers (powder-coated red, natch) and massive 380mm discs, mounted on aluminium hubs.
Front brakes are 380mm (!) diameter
The R sits 10mm lower than the standard RCZ on 19-inch wheels to give 'an expressive posture'. The wheels are described as 'two-tone diamond/black items' but appear far less chintzy in the pictures than that wording suggests.
Peugeot's visual overhaul for the R, as with the 208 GTI, has been fairly restrained; however, it's arguably more effective at conveying its sporting intentions than the hatch. The matt black roof arches, rear spoiler and shoutier exhaust tips (exiting a reworked exhaust system) all lend the RCZ R some aesthetic menace without losing the appeal of the standard shape. Four colours (Moroccan Red, Nera Black, Mercury Grey and Opal White) are available and the list of 'personalisation' options is refreshingly short, being limited to satin or carbon roof treatments and some decals. A smattering of R badges should further prevent any confusion with a diesel RCZ.
Red stitching and 'R' logos abound here
The interior receives some heavily bolstered leather/Alcantara sports seats, red stitching, leather contact points and further 'R' signatures. A brushed aluminium 'certification plate' also makes an appearance, despite the flagship RCZ not being a limited-edition.
However, gratuitous 'sporting' trinkets aside, the RCZ R is eagerly anticipated at PH. All of the above combined with a Torsen differential should make for an exciting car given the ability of the standard version and the promise shown by the 208. After its moving debut at Goodwood this weekend, the RCZ R will get a show reveal at Frankfurt before going on sale early in 2014. No price has yet been confirmed so the initial £30K or so estimate will remain for now. And after that, who knows? A 208 R/T16 with this drivetrain to mark the Pikes Peak victory? Go on Peugeot, you know you want to...