This Peugeot RCZ test drive by Autocar takes us through some of the more interesting design features of the 2+2 coupe, including the stunning aluminium arches and double bubble roof, as well as a brief introduction on just what this car means for Peugeot.
The RCZ is set to mark the start of a new era for the company, not only as it branches out into new segments, but also as it redefines itself in the market.
Autocar reveals that the RCZ is based on the Peugeot 308, but with a totally revamped suspension system and wider and lower wheelbase, all to give the RCZ a more precise driving feel.
This particular model of the Peugeot RCZ is equipped with the 1.
6-litre THP petrol engine with 200 hp, which will be available at a later date to the launch model engines: the 1.
6-litre with 156 hp and the 2.
0-litre HDi with 163 hp.
Unfortunately Autocar says that its a smooth ride, but that the modest performance is not going to ’set your hair on fire’.
This is a disappointing revelation for me, as I was hoping that Peugeot had managed to transfer some of its rally performance onto the RCZ to make this a competitive coupe model.
On the positive side, though, this is pegged as the only Peugeot this side of the year 2000 that is any fun to drive.
Returning to my question mark about whether any of the past Peugeot grunt of the great GTi models is apparent on the RCZ, the answer is apparently no.
It’s a good car, it’s a fun car, but it’s not a great Peugeot that will go down in the history books.
We weren’t necessarily expecting a groundbreaking Peugeot that would bring back that rally feeling, but we can’t help feeling that Peugeot has missed an opportunity with the RCZ to build something worthy of that tradition.
It’s like the brand relaunch is ignoring the positive parts of Peugeot tradition in light of more recent disappointments, and won’t be looking at anything from the past in its attempt to produce something that drives well, but that doesn’t really speak the old-school Peugeot language.
Autocar differs, saying that the Peugeot RCZ is a step in the right direction.
Peugeot is back with a good-looking drivers’ car which is fun and easy to drive and that can only be a positive thing.
The model that will bring us back to the Peugeot tradition could be further down the track after this respectable effort at a car that could prove competitive in its segment.
We’ll just have to wait and see.
Watch the video and see what you think of the RCZ now that it’s actually out on the road.