Peugeot 207 news - Peugeot 207 RCup unleashed - 2006

We've seen some nutty hot hatches from France over the years, but the 207 RCup could well be nuttier than a squirrel's larder.

Peugeot says the RCup is a concept for the Geneva motor show to demonstrate the potential of the forthcoming 207 supermini.

The French firm then goes on to say the RCup is built with Super 2000 rallying in mind. We say it gives a big hint to where the 207 GTi is heading.

The 207 GTi is unlikely to have the 280bhp, six-speed sequential gearbox and four-wheel drive of the RCup. But styling-wise, the 207 GTi will be a winner if it looks anything like this.

Sitting lower and wider than a 207 hatch, the RCup has 18in alloy wheels, deep front and rear bumpers, and a pair of twin exhausts poking out the back.

The front and rear spoilers are not just for show - they increase downforce and pummel those fat tyres into the Tarmac.

Inside, the RCup is all rally car purpose, with a stripped-out interior and all-enveloping rollcage.

Questions of when we'll see a road-going version of the RCup are met with a Gallic shrug, but the signs are looking good for the next 207 GTi and Peugeot's next World Rally Championship machine in 2007.

Read Peugeot 207 Car Review

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