2026 Peugeot CRZ

The 2026 Peugeot RCZ is a compact 2+2 sports coupe produced by Peugeot. The 2026 Peugeot RCZ is similar to the Honda CR-Z, based on the Peugeot 308 platform. The 2026 RCZ featured a wider and lower stance, offering effective roadholding, and was available with gasoline and turbocharged diesel engines, leading to the 266-horsepower RCZ R. Peugeot, despite boasting an impressively spacious trunk, the rear seats are a bit cramped, and while the interior is luxurious for its price, it can feel dated compared to newer designs.

Peugeot CRZ 2026 Render

2026 Peugeot CRZ Render

The 2026 Peugeot RCZ featured an active rear spoiler that automatically deployed at certain speeds to improve aerodynamics and stability. The Peugeot CR-Z is designed for fuel efficiency, achieving over 50 mpg under ideal conditions. “Sport” driving mode maximizes engine and power output, while “Eco” mode prioritizes fuel economy, sometimes sacrificing performance.

2026 Peugeot RCZ : Interior

Inside, the 2026 Peugeot RCZ interior is considered a significant step in Peugeot’s rise to the top of the quality ladder upon its launch. Higher trim levels, such as the GT, featured standard leather upholstery, enhancing the luxury feel. The cabin’s ambiance was further enhanced by chrome bezels, piano black accents, and soft-touch controls. A prominent analog clock in the center of the dashboard added a nice touch. While praised for its sporty feel and good build quality, some users noted that the cabin still contained a few cheap plastics, particularly around the lower transmission tunnel and steering wheel.

Peugeot CRZ 2026 Prezzo

The Peugeot RCZ front seats are known for being comfortable and supportive, even on long journeys; electric and heated leather options are available on higher trim levels. The driving position is low, and there’s a highly adjustable steering wheel for a stylish and comfortable fit. However, rear passenger space is quite limited; although legally classified as a “2+2” configuration, the rear seats are only suitable for small children on short journeys. The vehicle compensates for this with a user-friendly 384 liters of luggage space, which can be expanded to 760 liters by folding the rear seats. Infotainment features include standard Bluetooth and USB connectivity; however, the navigation system, available as an option on early models, was often considered outdated and difficult to use.

2026 Peugeot RCZ : Engine

The Peugeot RCZ is offered with a variety of engine options, most notably the 1.6-liter turbocharged gasoline engine and the 2.0-liter HDi turbocharged diesel engine. The 1.6-liter gasoline engine was developed in collaboration with BMW and used in various vehicles, including the MINI Cooper. It was available with various power outputs, including 154 horsepower (THP 156) and 201 horsepower (THP 204). For those prioritizing fuel economy and low-end torque, the 2.0-liter HDi diesel engine, producing 163 horsepower and feeling quicker than its power rating suggests in real-world driving conditions, was a popular option. A six-speed manual transmission was standard, but a six-speed automatic was also available on less powerful gasoline models.

The standout engine for motoring enthusiasts was the highly tuned 1.6-liter EP6CDTR gasoline engine in the limited-edition RCZ R, producing an impressive 266 horsepower. To accommodate the significantly increased power output over the standard 1.6-liter engine, Peugeot Sport engineers stiffened the engine block, installed stiffer connecting rods, and incorporated new Mahle Motorsport-made pistons. Combined with a Torsen limited-slip differential at the front axle, this engine created a highly efficient and effective front-wheel-drive vehicle that was praised for its smoothness and handling. While 1.6 THP engines are notorious for potential reliability issues, diesel engines are generally considered more robust, and the longevity of any model depends largely on regular and proper maintenance.

2026 Peugeot RCZ : Safety

The Peugeot RCZ has not been crash-tested by Euro NCAP, it is widely regarded as a safe vehicle thanks to the five-star rating of the Peugeot 308 hatchback based on its platform. The Peugeot RCZ comes with standard safety features such as four airbags, Electronic Stability Control (ESP), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), and Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD). A unique feature is the active hood system, which raises the hood to prevent injury to pedestrians in the event of a collision. Standard equipment also includes tire pressure monitoring and ISOFIX child seat anchors in the rear seats. 2026 Peugeot RCZ’s optional features include the Peugeot Connect SOS system, which enhances vehicle safety by automatically contacting emergency services after an accident.