Peugeot RCZ R revealed

Peugeot has whipped the covers off its RCZ R coupe, the most powerful production car yet from the French car-maker. The aggressively styled two-door sports car pumps out 52kW more than the regular model -- it's 1.6-litre turbo-petrol engine good for 199kW/320Nm.

First seen at the 2012 Paris motor show as a concept, a small shipment of the go-fast Pugs will arrive in Australia in March 2014. It will be priced at around $75,000. But with a sprint time of 5.9 seconds, considerably faster than the regular car's 7.5 second sprint, the RCZ R should have no trouble finding interested buyers.

The power boost from 147 to 199kW at 6000rpm is courtesy of several engine tweaks and new components including a steel exhaust manifold, polymer-coated piston bearings and forged alloy pistons.

Chassis updates designed to sharpen the car's handling include a 10mm lower ride height and larger 380mm front disc brakes. New 19-inch alloy wheels are shod with 235/45 aspect ratio Goodyear Eagle F1 tyres.

A large fixed rear spoiler and a large rear diffuser and bold twin exhausts are also in evidence, and the vehicle is also fitted with a Torsen mechanical limited-slip differential to improve cornering acceleration.

We've tested the regular RCZ on the race track several times before and we're impressed with its balance, so the RCZ R should raise the bar.

Due to be revealed to the public at the Goodwood Festival of Speed this weekend ahead of its motor show debut at Frankfurt in September, the Peugeot RCZ R has a top speed of 250km/h and weighs 17kg less than the regular RCZ at 1280kg. Fuel consumption is rated at a very respectable 6.3L/100km.

Interested buyers will also note the interior has been upgraded with lashings of Nappa leather and Alcantara, covering new sports bucket seats and dashpad. A smaller steering wheel is fitted, and red stitching abounds while an aluminium gearknob and certification plate add a primo look and feel to the cabin.

Xavier Nicolas, Product Manager for the RCZ line, said the goal was to develop “a frugal but vociferous sports car” that doesn't skimp on niceties.

"Our brief was ambitious; develop a top-specification, high-performance version of the RCZ, preserving the qualities of comfort and convenience for everyday use, all with low fuel consumption and CO2 emissions," said Nicolas.

Available in four colours (Moroccan red, Nera black, Mercury grey and Opal white), the Peugeot RCZ R's roof arches can also be tailored with gloss carbon, matte or satin finishes. Peugeot will also offer sticker kits.

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