Spyshots: 2010 Peugeot 308 RC-Z

Back in 2007, when the Peugeot 308 RC-Z was first presented as a concept car, the French manufacturer dubbed it their interpretation of "driving pleasure." Now, as you can see for yourselves, the Audi TT contender, as some call it, is almost here.

Of course, the spyshots here show the car wearing a bit of camo and we can all see how much the manufacturer tried to make the car as unappealing as possible. Still, the general lines of the car are visible, so you can make an idea of how car will look in the end.

We did and to be honest, it seems like something missing here. For some reason, the oversized, Airbus Beluga like front end of the car doesn't fit right with the Audi TT inspired back end. The previous generation Audi TT, from which the RC-Z was inspired looks much, much smoother than the 308.

Engine wise, it is likely the 308 RC-Z will be fitted with the same units found on the regular 308 (2.0 HDI 136 hp, 1.6l 150 hp and 1.6l THP 175 hp – the one used on the concept version as well), yet boasting the tweaks required to suit the roadster. A larger, 250 horsepower engine is also being considered, as well as turbo diesel engines.

Even if the 308 RC-Z seems to be an odd mix, it will most likely be an interesting appearance to the market. Price wise, it is yet unclear whether the 308 will be priced in the 35,000-45,000 euro range where you can find the TT. If it's priced lower, this could translate into a worthy opponent for the Germans. If it will wear a similar price tag, we would go for the TT.

The upcoming September Frankfurt Auto Show is the likely place for the debut of the production version of the 308 RC-Z.