PEUGEOT RCZ R ON THE ROAD BY THE END OF THE YEAR

Does the Renault Megane R.S. will stay the fastest FWD on the Nordschleife Nürburgring ? Done in 8:07, the Renault Megane beats many Prosches and the record of the BMW 1-serie.

Amazingly, Peugeot has achieved this increase without having to fit an engine larger than the THP's 1.6-litre turbo engine (the same engine that Mini uses, by the way). Using a small engine keeps the weight down. By putting various components on a diet, Peugeot has managed to shed 17kg from the RCZ's kerb weight. So, we're looking at a restricted top speed of 155mph and 0-62mph in 5.9sec. Now that's real performance.The R's suspension is lowered by 10mm and large 380mm brake discs have been fitted to give the RCZ serious stopping power. There's a new Torsen differential to help get all those horses on to the road and, finally, bespoke 19 inches alloys and a fixed rear spoiler.

Renault Mégane R.S. Trophy - new Nürburgring record - 8 min 07