The beefed-up hatch...
The beefed-up hatch uses the Espace"s 3.5-litre V6 engine. However, it has been modified to offer 320bhp - an increase from 245bhp in the MPV - and is mated to a semi-auto gearbox. A tubular chassis and performance brakes complete the changes.
French giant Peugeot...
French giant Peugeot is set to axe its trademark hard-top on a new cabriolet. An insider has revealed that a convertible version of the stunning RC Z is on the way ò€“ but it will shun a removable metal lid in favour of a lighter fabric roof.
Bosses want the drop-top to deliver similar pace to the coupé, and although heavy chassis strengthening is still needed to retain rigidity in a soft-top, the reinforcement wonò€™t be to the same extent as a coupé-cabrio. That will enable the flagship 200bhp 1.6-litre turbo version of the new open-air RC Z to sprint from 0-60mph in less than eight seconds, and hit 140mph.
At launch in early 2011, this petrol model will appear alongside a 163bhp 2.0 HDi diesel, giving 52.3mpg fuel economy and 139g/km emissions.
All versions will get a six-speed manual gearbox, with a six-ratio auto optional.
Our sources have suggested that a diesel-electric car, featuring the same powertrain as the forthcoming 3008 hybrid, will be introduced at a later date.
The RC Z shows Peugeotò€™s desire to recapture its design flair, as well as the performance credentials established by the likes of the 205 GTi ò€“ a huge hit as a hatch and cabrio.
The open-air RC Z is likely to carry a premium of Ò£5,000 over the coupé, so prices should start from Ò£25,000.