Peugeot 308 RC Z
By Steve Colquhoun | theage.com.au | 15 May
Is it an Audi TT? Is it a VW Beetle? No, it's a Peugeot, and it's had the green light for production and will be coming to Australia.
Code-named the 308 RC Z, the curvy 2+2 coupe will be unveiled in its final production guise at next year's Frankfurt Motor Show.
The concept version at the Detroit Auto Show this year had a 1.6-litre engine with a twin-scroll turbocharger capable of producing 160 kW and 280 Nm, and a top speed of 235 km/h.
The distinctive construction included a carbon-fibre roof panel framed by two polished aluminium rollover protection bars. A polycarbonate rear window with two curved sections improves aerodynamics, sloping down to chrome exhaust tips. The shape of the rear contributes to increased downforce to replace a spoiler.
Finely milled metallic particles on the grey exterior body creates the impression the vehicle has been formed from a single block of metal. However, this paint job is unlikely to make it to the production version.
The 308 RC Z concept car also has a lane-departure warning system, directional bi-xenon headlights, lightweight carbon-fibre body parts and an onboard telematics system.
First published by TheAge.com.au on May 15 2008
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