Peugeot RCZ 2.0 HDi 2012 review

Peugeot's RCZ 2+2 coupe is a striking car in the Audi TT idiom but with its own French flavour. The double-bubble rear screen is a stroke of styling genius as are the sweeping aluminium roof spars.

PRICE

And then there's the price advantage - all three RCZ variants are $54,990 with a generous amount of goodies. A diesel Audi TT will set you back nearly $70k albeit with all wheel drive.

ENGINE AND MECHANICALS

We have been driving the 2.0-litre HDi turbo diesel six-speed manual - an interesting specification for a sports coupe but it works, delivering sporty performance and sharp handling. 

There's no cackling, popping exhaust as you get in the turbo petrol models but the car has other strengths - such as frugal 5.3-litres/100km fuel consumption. It means you can drive your diesel RCZ for a thousand kays without refuelling. 

Strong roll-on acceleration is also an endearing feature of the 2.0-litre diesel which runs a variable geometry turbo and high pressure injection on the way to delivering some 120kW/340Nm output. 

That's pretty lazy by latest gen' diesel standards but you really don't need any more poke than what is available. 

It's aided and abetted by the close-ratio six- speed manual box which works sweetly apart from the 5-6 upchange which is slightly offset. 

You can maximise fuel efficiency by paying attention to the car's gear change indicator but we achieved 5.3 without really trying. Emissions are reduced by an exhaust particle filter and safety is boosted by four air bags and sports calibrated stability control. 

It has decidedly sporty handling thanks to the wide track and well damped suspension which is an ideal compromise between sports firm and comfort soft.

DESIGN AND EQUIPMENT

It's a beautifully built thing coming out of a factory in Austria complete with leather interior and a stylish yet functional dash.

The test vehicle was equipped with optional JBL audio which rocks your world but generous standard equipment includes Bluetooth, premium, fully connected audio, chrome dash trim, alloy pedals, dual climate control and a heap of other goodies. 

Brakes and steering responses are of a high order. The test car's Directional bi-xenon headlights were among the best we have sampled and the hill start assist and park assist are handy to have.

VERDICT

We liked driving this car. It's stylish, engaging, economical, goes great, is well equipped - and the right price.