RCZ
Launched in 2010, the Peugeot RCZ is a 2+2 coupe whose design stayed remarkably close to the 308 RC Z concept shown at Frankfurt in 2007. Its most distinctive features are the double-bubble roof, aluminium roof arches and low, wide stance, all carried over into the production car. Peugeot assigned the model’s development and manufacture to Magna Steyr in Graz, Austria, giving the RCZ an unusual place in the company’s modern history. The initial range combined turbocharged THP petrol engines with an HDi diesel, using front-wheel drive and six-speed manual transmissions on several versions. Rather than being a conventional derivative of Peugeot’s mainstream hatchbacks, the RCZ was positioned as an expressive sporting coupe with everyday usability. Its combination of concept-car styling, limited production and distinctive engineering makes it one of Peugeot’s most notable cars of the early 2010s.
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Variants by year
Make: Peugeot · Model: RCZ
1 / 1 versions shown
2010
Peugeot RCZ photos
Model summary
Data from the ScanRacer library, organized to compare versions quickly.
Model introduction
Launched in 2010, the Peugeot RCZ is a 2+2 coupe whose design stayed remarkably close to the 308 RC Z concept shown at Frankfurt in 2007. Its most distinctive features are the double-bubble roof, aluminium roof arches and low, wide stance, all carried over into the production car. Peugeot assigned the model’s development and manufacture to Magna Steyr in Graz, Austria, giving the RCZ an unusual place in the company’s modern history. The initial range combined turbocharged THP petrol engines with an HDi diesel, using front-wheel drive and six-speed manual transmissions on several versions. Rather than being a conventional derivative of Peugeot’s mainstream hatchbacks, the RCZ was positioned as an expressive sporting coupe with everyday usability. Its combination of concept-car styling, limited production and distinctive engineering makes it one of Peugeot’s most notable cars of the early 2010s.
History
The Peugeot RCZ story began in September 2007, when Peugeot revealed the 308 RC Z concept at the Frankfurt Motor Show. The study attracted strong public and media interest, thanks to its compact coupe proportions and unusual double-curved roof. At the Geneva Motor Show in March 2008, Peugeot confirmed that the concept would enter production. Magna Steyr was selected as the partner responsible for developing and assembling the complete vehicle. The production car was developed in roughly two years. Engineers in Graz made extensive use of virtual development before subjecting the finished design to a testing programme reported to cover more than one million kilometres. Production started at the end of 2009, with sales beginning in 2010. The RCZ followed a different path from Peugeot’s high-volume models: it was built at a specialist, low-volume facility while retaining most of the concept’s defining visual elements. A styling update arrived for the 2013 model year, bringing a redesigned front end and revised presentation. The model remained in production until 2015. During that period, Peugeot added special editions and introduced the RCZ R, a more focused derivative developed with Peugeot Sport. The result was a short-lived but clearly defined chapter in Peugeot’s sporting-car history.
Generations
The Peugeot RCZ does not split into several distinct generations. It is one model family produced from 2010 to 2015, with a styling update and progressive mechanical changes during its career. Early cars, sold from 2010, combined the Peugeot design language of the period with the concept’s defining features: a double-bubble roof, metallic roof arches and a 2+2 coupe body. The most significant evolution came in 2013. The RCZ received a redesigned front end that aligned it more closely with Peugeot’s newer styling direction. This update was not a new generation: the basic structure, silhouette and mechanical layout remained those of the original car. Changes were concentrated mainly on exterior presentation, equipment and selected powertrain specifications, which varied by market. The family also included several more distinctive derivatives. THP 200 versions and special editions gave the coupe a stronger sporting identity, while the RCZ R represented the performance peak of the range. Its 270 hp 1.6-litre engine, dedicated chassis settings and Torsen limited-slip differential set it apart from standard RCZ models. It should therefore be treated as a high-performance variant, not as a separate generation.
Key differences
Differences between RCZ models mainly concern the engine, transmission, equipment level and chassis tuning. Early cars could be fitted with a 1.6-litre THP petrol engine producing 156 hp, a more powerful THP 200, or a 2.0-litre 163 hp HDi diesel. The THP 156 was also offered with a six-speed automatic transmission in some markets, while the other configurations were generally paired with a six-speed manual gearbox. The THP 200 received additional chassis work compared with the entry-level model and carried a more performance-oriented specification. Asphalt editions added high-grade equipment and distinctive trim. The RCZ R was substantially more focused, with 270 hp, lowered suspension, a Torsen limited-slip differential, larger front brakes and Peugeot Sport-developed bucket seats. Cars updated from 2013 are most easily distinguished by their redesigned front end. Equipment names and engine availability varied by country, so identification should always be checked against the vehicle’s market documentation and build specification.
Photo recognition
The RCZ is easiest to recognise by its compact coupe shape and double-bubble roof. The two raised sections are more than a styling flourish: they extend the windscreen’s visual line and create the model’s most distinctive signature. The metal roof arches, positioned on either side of the roof panel, are another important clue. The car also has a high waistline, a steeply angled rear screen and a retractable active rear spoiler. The front end helps separate early cars from later examples. Pre-2013 models use the grille and bumper treatment associated with Peugeot’s design language of the early 2010s. Restyled cars have a cleaner front design, with LED daytime-running lights integrated according to specification. The RCZ R can be identified by its dedicated wheels, red brake calipers, specific badging and Peugeot Sport bucket seats. Trim details and equipment varied between markets, so visual identification should be confirmed with the vehicle’s VIN, factory documentation or original specification sheet.
Important versions
The key members of the RCZ family include the THP 156, one of the entry configurations, the THP 200, which placed greater emphasis on performance, and the 2.0 HDi 163, combining the coupe’s styling with a torquey diesel engine. Asphalt and Red Carbon special editions focused mainly on additional equipment, upgraded materials and distinctive exterior finishes. The most technically significant version is the RCZ R. Revealed in 2013 and introduced from 2014 depending on market, it used a 270 hp 1.6-litre petrol engine and a dedicated chassis specification. For a 2010 car, identification should always be based on the engine code, factory equipment and market documentation, because names, transmissions and available trims were not identical in every country.
The name “RCZ” follows Peugeot naming, with its rules and its exceptions. Decode a Peugeot name
References
- Der Peugeot RCZ – Made in AustriaPeugeot / Stellantis Media
- Peugeot RCZ – Produktionsjubiläum für den Supersportler aus GrazPeugeot / Stellantis Media
- Peugeot RCZ: Evolution einer RevolutionPeugeot / Stellantis Media
- Peugeot RCZ R: la versión más radical del coupe deportivoPeugeot / Stellantis Media
- Peugeot RCZ (2010–2015) ReviewHonest John
- Peugeot RCZ reviewevo
- Peugeot RCZ, un clásico modernoPeugeot / Stellantis Media
- https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2010/jul/25/martin-love-peugeot-rcztheguardian.com
Technical specifications
Structured data available for versions linked to this model.
| Version | Power | Torque | Top speed | Drivetrain | Fuel |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Base | 122 KW @ 4000 RPM166 HP @ 4000 RPM164 BHP @ 4000 RPM | 177 lb-ft @ 2000 RPM240 Nm @ 2000 RPM | 137 mph (220 km/h) | Front Wheel Drive / 6-speed manual | Diesel |
Frequently asked questions
- What years was the Peugeot RCZ produced?
- ScanRacer's referenced versions cover 2010.
- How many Peugeot RCZ examples are documented on ScanRacer?
- 3 published scans from 3 members, with the latest photo added in August 2026.
- What is the power output of the Peugeot RCZ?
- The sourced technical data lists 122 KW @ 4000 RPM166 HP @ 4000 RPM164 BHP @ 4000 RPM.
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