Peugeot’s new performance focussed RCZ R will be priced from £31,995 and is available to order from November 18.

The RCZ R will be the most powerful road-going car the French brand has ever sold. It will sprint from 0-62mph in 5.9 seconds and accelerate on to an electronically limited top speed of 155mph.

Inspired by the Peugeot RCZ Racing Cup track car and riding 10mm lower to the ground, the new range-topping two-seater sports coupé is powered by a 1.6-litre THP turbocharged petrol engine developing 270bhp (a 70bhp upgrade).

The new engine outputs 145g/km of CO2 and has a manufacturer quoted fuel efficiency figure 44.8mpg.

The new model also features a specially strengthened six-speed manual transmission, uprated clutch, larger intercooler and new twin-scroll turbocharger. The exhaust has also been modified; linked to the draw of the engine’s air intake, it features an enhanced ‘sound system’ to amplify the sporting character of the new RCZ R’s engine.

A Torsen differential has been added to the car’s specification to provide additional grip. The front and rear track have been widened to boost traction. Other upgrades include revised dampers settings, increased stiffness in the springs and anti-roll bar. Aerodynamic efficiency and high-speed stability have been improved, thanks to a new fixed boot spoiler which aids rear downforce.

The Peugeot RCZ R rides on two-tone 19-inch alloys and features larger four-piston brakes with red calipers and Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 235/40 R19 tyres.

Customers will be able to choose from four colours – Moroccan Red, Nera Black, Mercury Grey and Opal White.

The first Peugeot RCZ R deliveries will arrive in UK showrooms in early January.