Hot Peugeot RCZ R

Peugeot is to launch a hot version of the RCZ coupe (See review section) at the end of 2013. It will be revealed for the first time at the Goodwood Festival of Speed next month.

The RCZ R will be the most powerful road car in Peugeot’s history – squeezing a massive 260bhp from the 1.6-litre THP petrol engine.

The RCZ is already a head-turner but the R model will feature special paintwork and logos.

Two red Rs will be displayed for the first time in public during the Festival of Speed weekend, driven by the UK Peugeot 208 GTi Ambassador, Bradley Philpot – a finalist in the recent Nürburgring 24-hour race that saw three Peugeot 208 GTi cars win their SP2T class.

While the Goodwood Festival of Speed this year celebrates its 20^th anniversary, it is also the case that as the gates to the Festival open on 12^th July, it is the very same date 100 years ago that Peugeot won the French Grand Prix, coming first and second.

The THP engine was recently awarded the International Engine of the Year 2013 for the seventh year in succession.

New Peugeot 2008 Crossover

Peugeot today released details of the stylish new 2008 Crossover – due on the streets from July 18.

Priced from £12,995, the five-seater looks certain to be a hit with family buyers looking for a well-priced family car with extra boot space.

The 2008 Crossover range consists of four trim levels: Access+, Active, Allure & Feline. Range highlights include CO₂ from 98g/km, economy up to 74.3 mpg and the new three-cylinder VTi 82bhp petrol engine, successfully introduced on 208.

Crossover also sees the introduction of Grip Control on Allure and Feline models. Patented by the PSA Group, it improves traction in poor conditions, along with ‘Mud & Snow’ tyres.

Black Is Back

How do you make a Fiat Punto look desirable? Punto Jet Black manages it fairly well with a head-turning paintjob that is designed to appeal to the ‘yoof’ element.

Just 300 will be offered for sale at £12,000, with a 1.4 77bhp petrol engine and some funky extra kit as standard. Apart from the paintwork, this Punto is equipped with 17-inch alloys, matt black stripes and unique badging.

Standard specification includes body coloured rear spoiler and side skirts, leather steering wheel and gear knob, automatic climate control, dark tinted privacy glass, electric front windows and rear parking sensors.

Sports suspension, adaptive cornering fog lights, cruise control, Start & Stop, voice-controlled Blue&Me multimedia system and five airbags are part of the package too.