RCZ, the fun Peugeot

The fresh-looking 3008 and 5008 illustrate that Peugeot is determined to offer products other than correct, conventional cars. The 2+2 seat RCZ, that has passed from show concept to production model in two and a half years, follows the path, or perhaps it starts a new one in the style area. Compact at 4,29 m in length, it has looks, driving fun and good equipment, is reasonably practical and affordable too. The low, pleasant coupe silhouette has a chic ‘double bubble’ roof (no open version is expected) and a screen in the rear hatch made of real glass that extends such graceful shape; quite a construction feat.

Based in the same architecture than the popular 308, this front wheel drive coupe blends sports-car style, with details as a rear foil that automatically emerges in two positions depending on road speed, ride comfort and fuel economy as in any regular compact, and a generous cargo space that gets much bigger when the backrests of the tiny rear seats are folded. Petrol engine offer comprises two versions of the turbo 1.6, with 156 and 200 hp, each one coupled to a 6-gear manual box. A 6-gear automatic transmission for the first one will also be offered. The diesel alternative is a163 hp 2.0, lively and frugal (CO2 emissions under 140 g/km), which will be a base for the 4WD hybrid version expected for 2011.

To characterize the 200 hp RCZ, Peugeot has devised specific suspension settings that hardly affects ride comfort. A reinforcement bar in the front axle also contributes to better turn-in and sharper lines in bends.