Road test: Peugeot RCZ R

When Peugeot’s RCZ roadster first appeared, its looks seemed to owe much to its rival sports coupé the Audi TT. Once you get used to the Peugeot’s design, the differences are more pronounced, and it is only the profile of the low roofline which still looks much like the Audi.

The French car squeezed good performance from its 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine but now there is a new version. Badged the RCZ R, the engine is still only a 1.6, but power is up from 200 to 270hp, giving a top speed of 155mph and 0-62mph in just 5.9 seconds.

Peugeot has shaved 17kg off the weight, which at 1,280kg makes it a flyweight, and externally it is distinguished from the lesser RCZ by matt black roof arches and Zenon headlamps with a Titanium tint. It also sits lower on wider wheels.

It certainly feels quick, but power isn’t always delivered smoothly. There is a lot of exhaust and mechanical noise and the ride is harsh, even though you are grateful for the tenacious grip its suspension helps to provide.

The leather-clad cabin is attractive, and even though the price looks a bit steep, by sacrificing about a second off the 0-62mph time, you have saved almost £20,000 on the cost of Audi’s high performance Audi TT rival, the RS Quattro.

Peugeot RCZ R
Top speed: 155mph;
MPG: 44.8;
Emissions: 145g/km;
Price: £32,000