Peugot Gets All Sporty With The RCZ
September 9th, 2009
Peugeot is well known for producing stylish yet practical family hatches but now it is set to rediscover sportiness by unveiling its exciting new RCZ coupe which could hit NZ roads next year.
The new RCZ is designed to take on Audi’s popular TT coupe but at a lower price. Based on the same platform as the 308, the new coupe will certainly turn heads. It has curvaceous styling which includes an unusual “double bubble” roof and aluminium roof arches which can be personalised in either black, chrome or ‘satin.’
To deliver more dynamic handling than the hatch it is based on, the RCZ boasts a 20mm-lower ride height, 40mm-lower centre of gravity, and significantly wider front and rear tracks. Bulging wheelarches will also be filled with large tyres, ranging from 18 to 19 inches, which in turn are fitted with big brakes.
Three powerplants will be offered. Top of the line is a 1.6-litre turbocharged four-cylinder with 147kW and 255Nm (275Nm with overboost). Mated to a six-speed manual, the range-topping RCZ sprints from 0-100km/h in a claimed 7.6 seconds.
There is also a detuned version of the same turbo petrol engine – with outputs of 115kW and 240Nm – and a 2.0-litre diesel offering 120kW and 340Nm. The diesel and lesser-powered petrol engines are available with a choice of either manual or automatic transmissions with six gear ratios.
Boot capacity is a respectable 384 litres and includes additional storage spaces under the floor. The rear seats also fold down to expand cargo space. Prices are likely to start at between $60,000 and $70,000.
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