As far as we're concerned the original Peugeot RCZ was one of the more gorgeous pieces of automotive art to come out of France, but it was a blemished beauty. Unless you actually liked that gaping mouth…
Now the facelifted version has reached South Africa and it matches the curvy body of its predecessor - complete with its distinctive 'double bubble' roof - to a more elegant face with a smaller grille that echoes the family look first seen on the new 508 sedan.
The smaller grille of the new model is flanked by reshaped Directional Xenon headlights that flow into a redesigned bonnet and bumper.
INFOTAINMENT
While the basic interior design will be familiar to existing RCZ owners, it has been spiced up with new high-gloss black lacquer and brushed alloy trim; it also comes with a brand new RT6 infotainment system linked to an 18cm colour screen.
Besides the CD/USB/Aux audio system, this command centre incorporates a navigation system and Bluetooth connectivity.
Entering the cabin, you'll sink into leather-covered high-backed bucket seats with integrated head rests and comfort amenities include dual-zone climate control, automatic headlights and windscreen wipers, cruise control and front/rear parking sensors.
TURBO BOOST
As before, the RCZ's front wheels are driven by a 1.6-litre turbopetrol engine that's offered in two states of tune.
If you go for the manual-gearbox option you get the gutsier of the two, with 147kW on tap at 5800rpm and 275Nm at 1700rpm; for this one Peugeot claims a 0-100km/h sprint time of 7.5 seconds.
The six-speed automatic model's engine is rated at 115kW at 6000rpm and 240Nm at 1400 and it should take 8.4 seconds to get to 100.
PRICES
1.6 THP Automatic - R423 500
1.6 THP Manual - R434 900
Included is a three-year/100 000km warranty and five-year/100 000km full maintenance plan.
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