What's the news?
Peugeot has taken its popular and stylish RCZ model back to the drawing board; and it now returns with a new face and more optional equipment.
Exterior
From the outside, the most noticeable change is at the front of the car. The new model sports Peugeot's latest signature grille, which is featured on the company's new 208. LED daytime running lights have been fitted inside the bottom grille too, alongside a refreshed headlight design. The RCZ retains its double-bubble roof. Two trim levels are offered on launch, with base-level 'Sport' models fitted with 18-inch 'Original' alloy wheels and the top-spec 'GT' version getting 19-inch 'Technical' rims. Options include different alloy wheel designs, and a matte black finish to the car's roof arches.
Interior
Standard goodies on entry-level cars include dual-zone air conditioning, rear parking sensors, automatic lights and wipers and USB/Bluetooth connectivity. Move higher up the ladder to the GT spec and you'll gain a sports steering wheel and gearstick and black or brown leather seats that are both heated and electrically adjusted. Satellite navigation can also be had as an optional extra.
Mechanicals
We haven't had any word regarding mechanical changes for the RCZ's facelift, so we can only assume that the 1.6-litre petrol unit, in naturally aspirated and turbocharged forms and the 2.0-litre HDi diesel engine have been carried forward from the first generation car. The turbo petrol unit develops 200hp at 6000rpm; while the HDi engine manages a respectable 52.3mpg on the combined cycle.
Anything else?
Prices for the RCZ Sport start at £21,595 and £23,995 for the RCZ GT. Order books are open across the Peugeot dealership network now.
For those who feel the RCZ isn't hot enough, Peugeot intends to release the 260hp RCZ R towards the end of 2013.
James Giddings - 26 Nov 2012