Peugeot has unveiled full details on the new Peugeot RCZ 2+2 Coupe. Most people refer to this as a French take on the Audi TT, as it emulates the TT’s shape. If you notice the roof of the RCZ actually has some kind of recession in it in the middle, and Peugeot calls this a “double bubble” design.
Under the hood (at the front) is a version of the 1.6 litre BMW-PSA Prince engine, this time producing 200 horsepower at 5,800rpm, taking the car from 0 to 100km/h in 7.6 seconds thanks to its 255Nm of torque from 1,700rpm. That’s not a whole load of torque and 7.6 seconds isn’t exactly blistering speed, but because the RCZ is small with an interior thats designed to “wrap around” the driver cozily, the speeds might seem faster than they really are, so this will help add to the fun factor.
Of course less powerful engines are also available. A 156hp version of the 1.6 litre Prince engine is also available, and like the 200hp version it is mated to a 6-speed manual. But there will be a 6-speed auto coming soon in summer 2010 – a welcome addition to the Peugeot family as they’ve been making do with 4-speed automatics for a long time now, while BMW has been mating the Prince engine to 6-speed autos for a long time.
Of course there must be a diesel option – a 2.0 litre HDi FAP engine with 163hp, also mated to a 6-speed manual. This is the torqueiest engine option with 340Nm available at 2,000rpm. The diesel engine fuel consumption is rated at 52.3 mpg on the combined cycle.
The Peugoet RCZ rides on the same platform as the 308 and uses MacPherson struts at the front and a torsion beam at the rear. The platform has been modified to suit the RCZ’s sporty intentions – ride height has been lowered by 20mm, center of gravity lower by 40mm, front track widened by 54mm and rear track widened by 72mm. The 200hp engine version has an additional lower anti-roll bar to help with the handling. Peugeot did not use an electric power steering system on the RCZ – it sticks to a hydraulic system which usually offers better response.
The RCZ will go on sale in Spring 2010. You can probably expect Nasim to bring it in sometime in the future as a CBU model and in classic Nasim style, it will probably undercut the 2.0 TFSI Audi TT in terms of pricing, offering a nice alternative.
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AI-generated Summary ✨
Comments generally praise the Peugeot RCZ's stylish design, calling it one of Peugeot's most attractive models since earlier classics, with many noting its resemblance to the Audi TT and VW Scirocco. The "double bubble" roof design is a hot topic, with some critics finding it unappealing or reminiscent of body parts, while others find it distinctive. Enthusiasts express excitement about its potential to attract attention and challenge competitors like Audi TT, though concerns about affordability and market availability in Malaysia are raised. Several comments mention hoping for favorable pricing, improvements in interior quality, and acknowledgment that the car is more suited to European markets. Overall, reactions blend admiration for its looks with skepticism about its practicality, value, and design originality.