Making its first appearance on South African soil, the Peugeot RCZ-R turns heads like no other on the Peugeot stand at JIMS. Good news is the car will definitely be going on sale in 2014. It is Peugeot’s most powerful standard production car to date and has astounding specific power and power-to-weight ratio statistics.
Based on Peugeot’s RCZ sports coupé, the R version benefits from a mass reduction regimen, combined with a huge power injection. Already one of the most attractive two-seater sports cars in the world, the RCZ gains additional aggression in its RCZ-R iteration, thanks to large, fixed rear wing. This, together with a lot of detail work to the smooth, curved body of the two-door, has increased downforce without compromising overall aerodynamics.
A lower ride height, special 19-inch alloy wheels with an aerodynamic design to assist with brake cooling, as well as a pronounced rear diffuser further augment the visual presence of the RCZ. The result is a car that combines the striking, curved silhouette of the original with more pronounced, visual muscle.
The 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine employs high-pressure turbo technology to hoist maximum power output to an astounding 199 kW. The accompanying torque peaks at 330 Nm. With just 1 280 kg to propel, the turbo engine slingshots the RCZ-R from rest to 100 km/h in 5,9 seconds, while top speed remains limited to 250 km/h. It will cover the quarter-mile dash in 14,2 sec. To make the most of all that power, the RCZ-R is equipped with a Torsen limited-slip differential.
While the RCZ-R is a performance car first and foremost, the interior reflects a high degree of comfort and style. Luxurious finishes unique to this model include new, lightweight bucket seats, leather and Alcantara trim, and a long list of luxury and convenience equipment.
