THE most powerful road-going car Peugeot has ever sold will hit the streets in January.

It's the Peugeot RCZ R model featuring a string of mechanical upgrades that the French brand says will guarantee a thrilling ride for anyone who gets behind the wheel.

Inspired by the Peugeot RCZ Racing Cup track car and riding 10mm lower to the ground, the new flagship two-seater sports coupe is powered by a 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine developing 270bhp.

Since its launch three years ago, the RCZ has produced 200bhp, so the R variant represents a considerable boost in power.

And to create a dynamic experience to rival the best-in-class, engineers at Peugeot Sport in Paris have reworked almost every component of the car.

The starting point was the engine, which is almost identical in output to the Racing Cup car and, with nearly 170bhp per litre, sets a record for specific power in its category.

Among its features are new forged pistons using a grade of aluminium found in Formula One, a specially strengthened six-speed manual transmission, new twin-scroll turbocharger and exhaust with amplified sound system.

The RCZ R rides on two-tone 19-inch alloys which accommodate new larger four-piston brakes with red calipers at the front bearing the Peugeot Sport name.

It will sprint from 0-62mph in 5.9 seconds and accelerate on to an electronically limited top speed of 155mph.

And with CO2 emissions of 145g/km and combined fuel economy of 44.8mpg it makes a compelling case to buyers.

Prices are from £31,995 and the RCZ R is available to order from next week in four colours - Moroccan Red, Nera Black, Mercury Grey and Opal White.