Frankfurt motor show 2007 - Peugeot

Peugeot has trumped its own new 308 hatchback, making its show debut at Frankfurt, by bringing along a stunning Audi TT lookalike – the RC Z

Officially, RC Z is a concept car, but the fact that it's based on the 308 and looks just about showroom-ready gives the game away. It will go into production in 2009.

Power comes from a 218bhp development of the 1.6-litre turbo engine shared with Mini. Peugeot reckons on a 0-60mph time of less than seven seconds and more than 42mpg on the combined cycle.

The engine drives through a new six-speed manual gearbox, while the part-aluminium suspension layout has been lifted from the 308, but puts the wheels further apart on each axle.

The RC Z is the same length as a 308 and has the same front end apart from some minor changes around the bumper.

But it is lower and wider and has a curved roof and rear window, negating the need for a spoiler.

The show car contains aluminium and carbonfibre parts that might not appear on production models for cost reasons.

Likewise, the interior of the concept could be modified. The main fascia panel comes straight from the 308, but it is trimmed in leather and has chrome, aluminium and black lacquer highlights. A Bell & Ross clock replaces the centre air vent.

There are bucket-type front seats with aluminium eyelets, plus a couple of fold-down rear seats, turning the car from a two-seater into an occasional two-plus-two.

Elsewhere on the stand, there are 308s of all shapes and sizes, including the first appearance of the three-door model, a diesel-electric hybrid and a concept that gives pointers to the SW estate due in the first half of next year.