•In 2015, the Peugeot RCZ was retired, and the name made a surprise return in the form of the new RCZ Vision concept car. While the classic coupe identity is preserved, the engine compartment no longer houses a combustion engine. The RCZ, which the brand said would remain a footnote in the history of this beloved but not very popular coupé, has now made a surprise return in the form of the RCZ Vision concept. The electric coupé from the Peugeot brand is based on the new ‘STLA One’ architecture introduced by Stellantis earlier this year. Like the original car, it has a double-bubble roof, but the windows extend from the hood to the rear of the car, giving the concept car a typically showy interpretation. The interior of the car is probably the most relevant part for future production vehicles. The Hypersquare, a rectangular control device with thumb grips instead of a steering wheel, is located here. In vehicles with such a device, the steering does not work with the traditional steering mechanism; therefore, the RCZ Vision has a steer-by-wire (electronic steering) system that eliminates the physical connection. The variable ratio system is said to require less than a full turn to achieve full lock at low speeds, and the ratio decreases at high speeds. Peugeot also claims that the technology filters out unwanted vibrations caused by imperfections on the road surface, providing noticeable driving comfort under all conditions.
Unlike the production RCZ, the model with the small rear seats offers much more generous space for rear passengers, with the rear bench able to accommodate two adults or fold flat for more luggage space. There is no bet that the new RCZ will go into production. Instead, the focus seems to be on a broader Peugeot performance vehicle preview, which is expected to be featured in the next E-208 GTI car.
