The chances of a 493bhp Peugeot 308 hitting UK roads are pretty slim, but Peugeot’s latest aggressive, two-tone concept is further evidence the French carmaker has rediscovered its performance mojo.
The bare figures are impressive: 4 seconds to 62mph, an electronically limited top speed of 155mph and, thanks to a hybrid powertrain, CO2 emissions of 70g/km. An electric motor sits at each axle assisting the RCZ-R’s 1.6-litre, 266bhp petrol engine, for all-wheel drive and total system torque of 538lb ft.
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Qoros PHEV 2 Concept
The Shanghai auto show very much reflects China’s taste in cars, and that currently means long-wheelbase saloons and compact crossovers. Not the usual evo material, but Qoros has plans to enter the UK so its products are currently in the spotlight.
The PHEV 2 Concept is certainly more dramatic than most crossovers littering Britain’s roads. The styling is challenging – though that’s proven no issue for the Juke’s success – and power comes from a plug-in hybrid system combining a front-mounted turbocharged petrol engine and twin rear electric motors.
Volkswagen C Coupe GTE
Designed to preview a car for the Chinese market, the C Coupe GTE nevertheless crams Volkswagen’s latest design cues into a sleek four-door form and utilises the latest in the firm’s powertrain technology.
A turbocharged petrol engine sits under the bonnet, connected to an electric motor via an 8-speed automatic transmission. Total system output is 242bhp and there’s a hefty 369lb ft of torque. It’ll run on electric power alone up to 81mph (with 31 miles of range), but still offers 0-62mph performance of 8.6 seconds.
Volkswagen Scirocco GTS
The current-generation Scirocco is nearing the end of its life but a special edition unveiled in Shanghai shows there's still potential for the Golf-based coupe. A 217bhp, 258lb ft 2.0-litre TSI engine provides power to the front wheels, with a choice of manual or DSG transmissions.
A 0-62mph sprint of 6.5 seconds is the result, but there's visual appeal too. A set of handsome 18in 'Norwich' alloy wheels, R-line exterior package and optional bodywork stripes differentiate the car from conventional Sciroccos. Inside, there's a new MIB II touchscreen infotainment system and a Golf GTI-style dimpled gear shift lever.
