What's the news?
Twofold - Peugeot has announced that the RCZ is going to get a facelift, and in 2013 we can expect the arrival of a hot R version with 264hp. The range is to offer even more personalisation options to buyers and it'll all be on display at the forthcoming Paris Motor Show.
Exterior
So the RCZ is going to get a new face, with a revised central air intake and redesigned headlights with six LEDs in the shape of claws - something of a signature mark for the firm. There's a range of new options as well, to make the coupé more bespoke for buyers. On top of the new paint colours you can choose matt black roof arches, a black pack that adds black grille bars, brake callipers and mirror housings to the above, different decals and two 19-inch wheel sets.
Interior
There are more colour choices for the cabin as well, and all models get a lacquered black gear lever surround. GT models come with leather door trims and aluminium dash inlays, while all models benefit from an acoustic windscreen and visibility pack (automatic wipers, headlamps and guide-me-home lighting) as standard. The boot's larger as well, the extra 30 litres of under-floor storage making for a total of 384 litres. Updates to the satnav and audio system complete the interior updates.
Mechanicals
There are no real changes to the range of RCZ models on offer - save for the introduction of the more-powerful version of the 1.6-litre THP engine.
Anything else?
The RCZ R is the most exciting announcement - shown in Paris as a concept it'll match its Onyx supercar sister with its matt black and copper finish. When it hits the showrooms in 2013 the 'R' will extract 264hp from its 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine, making it the most powerful model in Peugeot's production car history. It'll combine with the excellent standard chassis and a Torsen limited slip differential to potentially make for the most exciting production Peugeot as well.
Graeme Lambert - 12 Sep 2012