Peugeot RCZ 1.6 THP (A) Review
04 Mar 2011|29,285 views
At first glance, the Peugeot RCZ oozes sex appeal from every curve and subtle concave line that runs the length of its voluptuous dimensions.
While the new coupe has just fast forwarded Peugeot to the top of the design pedestal, we can't say we didn't see this coming.
From long ago, Peugeot has continuously demonstrated their ability to produce some of the most emotive designs anywhere in the automotive world and one of their most memorable exercises, one that I vaguely recall from my secondary school days is the 406 Coupe.
Its beauty is somewhat elevated further by its rarity in the local sense with only two in existence on our island (the last I heard). Seeing one in the metal in Singapore is hardly an everyday thing which explains why one tends to be visually arrested by its Pininfarina body.
While the new coupe has just fast forwarded Peugeot to the top of the design pedestal, we can't say we didn't see this coming.
From long ago, Peugeot has continuously demonstrated their ability to produce some of the most emotive designs anywhere in the automotive world and one of their most memorable exercises, one that I vaguely recall from my secondary school days is the 406 Coupe.
Its beauty is somewhat elevated further by its rarity in the local sense with only two in existence on our island (the last I heard). Seeing one in the metal in Singapore is hardly an everyday thing which explains why one tends to be visually arrested by its Pininfarina body.
 |
Hardly resting on their laurels since the 406, the French manufacturer has continually impressed over the years with their line of 308 hatchbacks, coupe cabriolets and station wagons. Earning much compliment for their clever design that manages to infuse timeless elegance while at the same time hiding the bulk of its 308SW.
The keen observers among you would've probably noticed that this is the first model from Peugeot that doesn't use numbers for designation. A clear signal that Peugeot wants consumers to perceive this as a model that is exclusive from the rest of their product line.
 |
Exterior
It might seem exaggerated, but the first time my eyes were met the lusty lines of the RCZ, it stirred the same emotions I get when I'm faced with pictures of Ferrari's most (some might beg to differ) coveted machine, the iconic 1962 250 GTO. While the 250 GTO is understandably held to higher regard for its hand beaten aluminium body, the RCZ embodies the essence of that old world charm that the 250 GTO possesses in spades.
To see the same unbroken curves of the 250 GTO reproduced on the RCZ would cause any grown man to get a little weak in the knees. The sexy Pug's design takes a moral high ground of gender neutrality by incorporating a healthy mix of effeminate and masculine character in its design.
The front end is no less inspired by the 308 models but the designers have gone on to give it a slight nip tuck by lowering and widening the front fascia till they ended up with a face appropriate for the firm's first attempt at a sports coupe in awhile.
While the top half of the fascia brims with elegant lines that converge on that genetic snout, the bottom half centres on that menacingly large intake that threatens to hoover up anything in its path.
It might seem exaggerated, but the first time my eyes were met the lusty lines of the RCZ, it stirred the same emotions I get when I'm faced with pictures of Ferrari's most (some might beg to differ) coveted machine, the iconic 1962 250 GTO. While the 250 GTO is understandably held to higher regard for its hand beaten aluminium body, the RCZ embodies the essence of that old world charm that the 250 GTO possesses in spades.
To see the same unbroken curves of the 250 GTO reproduced on the RCZ would cause any grown man to get a little weak in the knees. The sexy Pug's design takes a moral high ground of gender neutrality by incorporating a healthy mix of effeminate and masculine character in its design.
The front end is no less inspired by the 308 models but the designers have gone on to give it a slight nip tuck by lowering and widening the front fascia till they ended up with a face appropriate for the firm's first attempt at a sports coupe in awhile.
While the top half of the fascia brims with elegant lines that converge on that genetic snout, the bottom half centres on that menacingly large intake that threatens to hoover up anything in its path.
Of course the main point of this car is its sex appeal which is in abundance. A look at the bulbous, curvaceous glass Zagato roof conjures up images of…well I'll leave that to your well inspired imaginations. Think: Victoria's Secret.
Kinky references aside, an elaborate glass roof like the one adorned here is usually only found on concept cars for obvious reasons. As I'm told, this roof is impossibly hard to accomplish which is why production responsibilities for the RCZ fell on the capable hands of the Magna Steyr production house. The same people who are giving life to the ultra attractive Aston Martin Rapide as we speak.
The RCZ shares its masculine appeal with cars like the Cayman S and TT with the same flared wheel arches that give it a rock solid stance.
The narrow 'waist' between the front and rear wheel arches provides a line of gender neutrality by blurring the exaggerated lines of the rear with the elegant flowing lines from the waist. Creating the illusion of the perfect figure.
Such powerful flared arches requires a little more alloy to fill the generous void and in this case, Peugeot have given the RCZ its own unique set of 18 inch wheels that look as gorgeous as the car it adorns.
Kinky references aside, an elaborate glass roof like the one adorned here is usually only found on concept cars for obvious reasons. As I'm told, this roof is impossibly hard to accomplish which is why production responsibilities for the RCZ fell on the capable hands of the Magna Steyr production house. The same people who are giving life to the ultra attractive Aston Martin Rapide as we speak.
The RCZ shares its masculine appeal with cars like the Cayman S and TT with the same flared wheel arches that give it a rock solid stance.
The narrow 'waist' between the front and rear wheel arches provides a line of gender neutrality by blurring the exaggerated lines of the rear with the elegant flowing lines from the waist. Creating the illusion of the perfect figure.
Such powerful flared arches requires a little more alloy to fill the generous void and in this case, Peugeot have given the RCZ its own unique set of 18 inch wheels that look as gorgeous as the car it adorns.
 |
Interior
Once you've collected yourself enough to peel your eyes away from the seductive exterior, you'll find that on the inside things are a little less dramatic. Keen observers would notice the familiar dashboard and switches that are transplanted from the 308CC.
When you're settled into the driver's seat, it strikes you immediately how comfortable and supportive the seats actually are though they might not look it. They actually hold your bum well when you're in a bit of exuberant cornering.
While the seats are faultless, the steering wheel fitted here does seem a little too chunky for what is touted to be Peugeot's latest performance model. Chunkiness aside, the wheel is grippy and highly adjustable to avail the most perfect driving position possible.
Though the dashboard is mostly inherited from the 308CC, Peugeot has tried to up the premium feel by having it entirely wrapped in leather.
Instead of spoiling the mood of the interior with a digital clock, the RCZ gets a classic looking analog timepiece on the centre dashboard.
Once you've collected yourself enough to peel your eyes away from the seductive exterior, you'll find that on the inside things are a little less dramatic. Keen observers would notice the familiar dashboard and switches that are transplanted from the 308CC.
When you're settled into the driver's seat, it strikes you immediately how comfortable and supportive the seats actually are though they might not look it. They actually hold your bum well when you're in a bit of exuberant cornering.
While the seats are faultless, the steering wheel fitted here does seem a little too chunky for what is touted to be Peugeot's latest performance model. Chunkiness aside, the wheel is grippy and highly adjustable to avail the most perfect driving position possible.
Though the dashboard is mostly inherited from the 308CC, Peugeot has tried to up the premium feel by having it entirely wrapped in leather.
Instead of spoiling the mood of the interior with a digital clock, the RCZ gets a classic looking analog timepiece on the centre dashboard.
Despite the RCZ being marketed as a 2+2 coupe, the term '+2' seems to have been thrown around a little too loosely here. The rear seats seem most appropriate for either a contortionist or a small monkey.
Putting either a human being or a family pet back here would be a gross violation of human rights. That's unless the human being in question happens to be 'backstabbing John' whom you've so kindly invited along for a threesome lunch.
Surprisingly, the French coupe gets a rather decently sized boot that's spacious enough to swallow 390 litres in volume. If that's not enough, a little red tab in the boot folds the rear seats down to extend your cargo carrying capacity further when needed.
The Drive
The RCZ like so many other Peugeot and Citroen models gets the wonderful little Prince engine that was borne from the ménage à trios of Peugeot, Citroen and BMW.
The same 1.6-litre turbocharged straight-4 can be found powering a number of wonderfully perky models from all three manufacturers with the most recognizable being the Mini Cooper S.
Putting either a human being or a family pet back here would be a gross violation of human rights. That's unless the human being in question happens to be 'backstabbing John' whom you've so kindly invited along for a threesome lunch.
Surprisingly, the French coupe gets a rather decently sized boot that's spacious enough to swallow 390 litres in volume. If that's not enough, a little red tab in the boot folds the rear seats down to extend your cargo carrying capacity further when needed.
The Drive
The RCZ like so many other Peugeot and Citroen models gets the wonderful little Prince engine that was borne from the ménage à trios of Peugeot, Citroen and BMW.
The same 1.6-litre turbocharged straight-4 can be found powering a number of wonderfully perky models from all three manufacturers with the most recognizable being the Mini Cooper S.
 |
Underneath the silent tribute to Evangeline Lily, you'll find all the running gear from the 308CC. Although they've given the RCZ a lower and wider stance with a slightly stiffer spring setup.
On the roads, it is obvious Peugeot wasn't aiming the RCZ as a performance model as the sprint to 100kmh is despatched in a leisurely nine seconds. That aside, the power delivery from the six-speed automatic here grants the coupe a smooth ride.
The car is pretty nimble to drive and felt rather neutral in the twisties. Though it does have a tendency to understeer when pushed.
While the car is fitted with slightly stiffer springs, the body roll was still evident in the tighter bends which also explains its comfortable ride around town.
On the roads, it is obvious Peugeot wasn't aiming the RCZ as a performance model as the sprint to 100kmh is despatched in a leisurely nine seconds. That aside, the power delivery from the six-speed automatic here grants the coupe a smooth ride.
The car is pretty nimble to drive and felt rather neutral in the twisties. Though it does have a tendency to understeer when pushed.
While the car is fitted with slightly stiffer springs, the body roll was still evident in the tighter bends which also explains its comfortable ride around town.
Conclusion
In recent memory, Peugeot has impressed again and again with every new model launched and the new RCZ is no different. Peugeot has once again displayed their ability to deliver a practical two seat (it is NOT a four seater no matter what the brochure says) sports coupe that not only appeals to the heart but to the mind as well.
The RCZ is a refreshing model from Peugeot as it reminds us that the French manufacturer is still well and truly capable of producing an emotive automobile that gets our hearts fluttering. But does it possess the same performance spirit of Peugeot models past?
No...but to be honest that really doesn't bother me at all. Why should it when I'm driving a car that looks this good?
sgCarMart would like to thank Jack Cars for providing the Peugeot RCZ for this review.
What do you think? Jot down your opinions at the comment box below.
In recent memory, Peugeot has impressed again and again with every new model launched and the new RCZ is no different. Peugeot has once again displayed their ability to deliver a practical two seat (it is NOT a four seater no matter what the brochure says) sports coupe that not only appeals to the heart but to the mind as well.
The RCZ is a refreshing model from Peugeot as it reminds us that the French manufacturer is still well and truly capable of producing an emotive automobile that gets our hearts fluttering. But does it possess the same performance spirit of Peugeot models past?
No...but to be honest that really doesn't bother me at all. Why should it when I'm driving a car that looks this good?
sgCarMart would like to thank Jack Cars for providing the Peugeot RCZ for this review.
What do you think? Jot down your opinions at the comment box below.
At first glance, the Peugeot RCZ oozes sex appeal from every curve and subtle concave line that runs the length of its voluptuous dimensions.
While the new coupe has just fast forwarded Peugeot to the top of the design pedestal, we can't say we didn't see this coming.
From long ago, Peugeot has continuously demonstrated their ability to produce some of the most emotive designs anywhere in the automotive world and one of their most memorable exercises, one that I vaguely recall from my secondary school days is the 406 Coupe.
Its beauty is somewhat elevated further by its rarity in the local sense with only two in existence on our island (the last I heard). Seeing one in the metal in Singapore is hardly an everyday thing which explains why one tends to be visually arrested by its Pininfarina body.
While the new coupe has just fast forwarded Peugeot to the top of the design pedestal, we can't say we didn't see this coming.
From long ago, Peugeot has continuously demonstrated their ability to produce some of the most emotive designs anywhere in the automotive world and one of their most memorable exercises, one that I vaguely recall from my secondary school days is the 406 Coupe.
Its beauty is somewhat elevated further by its rarity in the local sense with only two in existence on our island (the last I heard). Seeing one in the metal in Singapore is hardly an everyday thing which explains why one tends to be visually arrested by its Pininfarina body.
|
Hardly resting on their laurels since the 406, the French manufacturer has continually impressed over the years with their line of 308 hatchbacks, coupe cabriolets and station wagons. Earning much compliment for their clever design that manages to infuse timeless elegance while at the same time hiding the bulk of its 308SW.
The keen observers among you would've probably noticed that this is the first model from Peugeot that doesn't use numbers for designation. A clear signal that Peugeot wants consumers to perceive this as a model that is exclusive from the rest of their product line.
|
Exterior
It might seem exaggerated, but the first time my eyes were met the lusty lines of the RCZ, it stirred the same emotions I get when I'm faced with pictures of Ferrari's most (some might beg to differ) coveted machine, the iconic 1962 250 GTO. While the 250 GTO is understandably held to higher regard for its hand beaten aluminium body, the RCZ embodies the essence of that old world charm that the 250 GTO possesses in spades.
To see the same unbroken curves of the 250 GTO reproduced on the RCZ would cause any grown man to get a little weak in the knees. The sexy Pug's design takes a moral high ground of gender neutrality by incorporating a healthy mix of effeminate and masculine character in its design.
The front end is no less inspired by the 308 models but the designers have gone on to give it a slight nip tuck by lowering and widening the front fascia till they ended up with a face appropriate for the firm's first attempt at a sports coupe in awhile.
While the top half of the fascia brims with elegant lines that converge on that genetic snout, the bottom half centres on that menacingly large intake that threatens to hoover up anything in its path.
It might seem exaggerated, but the first time my eyes were met the lusty lines of the RCZ, it stirred the same emotions I get when I'm faced with pictures of Ferrari's most (some might beg to differ) coveted machine, the iconic 1962 250 GTO. While the 250 GTO is understandably held to higher regard for its hand beaten aluminium body, the RCZ embodies the essence of that old world charm that the 250 GTO possesses in spades.
To see the same unbroken curves of the 250 GTO reproduced on the RCZ would cause any grown man to get a little weak in the knees. The sexy Pug's design takes a moral high ground of gender neutrality by incorporating a healthy mix of effeminate and masculine character in its design.
The front end is no less inspired by the 308 models but the designers have gone on to give it a slight nip tuck by lowering and widening the front fascia till they ended up with a face appropriate for the firm's first attempt at a sports coupe in awhile.
While the top half of the fascia brims with elegant lines that converge on that genetic snout, the bottom half centres on that menacingly large intake that threatens to hoover up anything in its path.
Of course the main point of this car is its sex appeal which is in abundance. A look at the bulbous, curvaceous glass Zagato roof conjures up images of…well I'll leave that to your well inspired imaginations. Think: Victoria's Secret.
Kinky references aside, an elaborate glass roof like the one adorned here is usually only found on concept cars for obvious reasons. As I'm told, this roof is impossibly hard to accomplish which is why production responsibilities for the RCZ fell on the capable hands of the Magna Steyr production house. The same people who are giving life to the ultra attractive Aston Martin Rapide as we speak.
The RCZ shares its masculine appeal with cars like the Cayman S and TT with the same flared wheel arches that give it a rock solid stance.
The narrow 'waist' between the front and rear wheel arches provides a line of gender neutrality by blurring the exaggerated lines of the rear with the elegant flowing lines from the waist. Creating the illusion of the perfect figure.
Such powerful flared arches requires a little more alloy to fill the generous void and in this case, Peugeot have given the RCZ its own unique set of 18 inch wheels that look as gorgeous as the car it adorns.
Kinky references aside, an elaborate glass roof like the one adorned here is usually only found on concept cars for obvious reasons. As I'm told, this roof is impossibly hard to accomplish which is why production responsibilities for the RCZ fell on the capable hands of the Magna Steyr production house. The same people who are giving life to the ultra attractive Aston Martin Rapide as we speak.
The RCZ shares its masculine appeal with cars like the Cayman S and TT with the same flared wheel arches that give it a rock solid stance.
The narrow 'waist' between the front and rear wheel arches provides a line of gender neutrality by blurring the exaggerated lines of the rear with the elegant flowing lines from the waist. Creating the illusion of the perfect figure.
Such powerful flared arches requires a little more alloy to fill the generous void and in this case, Peugeot have given the RCZ its own unique set of 18 inch wheels that look as gorgeous as the car it adorns.
|
Interior
Once you've collected yourself enough to peel your eyes away from the seductive exterior, you'll find that on the inside things are a little less dramatic. Keen observers would notice the familiar dashboard and switches that are transplanted from the 308CC.
When you're settled into the driver's seat, it strikes you immediately how comfortable and supportive the seats actually are though they might not look it. They actually hold your bum well when you're in a bit of exuberant cornering.
While the seats are faultless, the steering wheel fitted here does seem a little too chunky for what is touted to be Peugeot's latest performance model. Chunkiness aside, the wheel is grippy and highly adjustable to avail the most perfect driving position possible.
Though the dashboard is mostly inherited from the 308CC, Peugeot has tried to up the premium feel by having it entirely wrapped in leather.
Instead of spoiling the mood of the interior with a digital clock, the RCZ gets a classic looking analog timepiece on the centre dashboard.
Once you've collected yourself enough to peel your eyes away from the seductive exterior, you'll find that on the inside things are a little less dramatic. Keen observers would notice the familiar dashboard and switches that are transplanted from the 308CC.
When you're settled into the driver's seat, it strikes you immediately how comfortable and supportive the seats actually are though they might not look it. They actually hold your bum well when you're in a bit of exuberant cornering.
While the seats are faultless, the steering wheel fitted here does seem a little too chunky for what is touted to be Peugeot's latest performance model. Chunkiness aside, the wheel is grippy and highly adjustable to avail the most perfect driving position possible.
Though the dashboard is mostly inherited from the 308CC, Peugeot has tried to up the premium feel by having it entirely wrapped in leather.
Instead of spoiling the mood of the interior with a digital clock, the RCZ gets a classic looking analog timepiece on the centre dashboard.
Despite the RCZ being marketed as a 2+2 coupe, the term '+2' seems to have been thrown around a little too loosely here. The rear seats seem most appropriate for either a contortionist or a small monkey.
Putting either a human being or a family pet back here would be a gross violation of human rights. That's unless the human being in question happens to be 'backstabbing John' whom you've so kindly invited along for a threesome lunch.
Surprisingly, the French coupe gets a rather decently sized boot that's spacious enough to swallow 390 litres in volume. If that's not enough, a little red tab in the boot folds the rear seats down to extend your cargo carrying capacity further when needed.
The Drive
The RCZ like so many other Peugeot and Citroen models gets the wonderful little Prince engine that was borne from the ménage à trios of Peugeot, Citroen and BMW.
The same 1.6-litre turbocharged straight-4 can be found powering a number of wonderfully perky models from all three manufacturers with the most recognizable being the Mini Cooper S.
Putting either a human being or a family pet back here would be a gross violation of human rights. That's unless the human being in question happens to be 'backstabbing John' whom you've so kindly invited along for a threesome lunch.
Surprisingly, the French coupe gets a rather decently sized boot that's spacious enough to swallow 390 litres in volume. If that's not enough, a little red tab in the boot folds the rear seats down to extend your cargo carrying capacity further when needed.
The Drive
The RCZ like so many other Peugeot and Citroen models gets the wonderful little Prince engine that was borne from the ménage à trios of Peugeot, Citroen and BMW.
The same 1.6-litre turbocharged straight-4 can be found powering a number of wonderfully perky models from all three manufacturers with the most recognizable being the Mini Cooper S.
|
Underneath the silent tribute to Evangeline Lily, you'll find all the running gear from the 308CC. Although they've given the RCZ a lower and wider stance with a slightly stiffer spring setup.
On the roads, it is obvious Peugeot wasn't aiming the RCZ as a performance model as the sprint to 100kmh is despatched in a leisurely nine seconds. That aside, the power delivery from the six-speed automatic here grants the coupe a smooth ride.
The car is pretty nimble to drive and felt rather neutral in the twisties. Though it does have a tendency to understeer when pushed.
While the car is fitted with slightly stiffer springs, the body roll was still evident in the tighter bends which also explains its comfortable ride around town.
On the roads, it is obvious Peugeot wasn't aiming the RCZ as a performance model as the sprint to 100kmh is despatched in a leisurely nine seconds. That aside, the power delivery from the six-speed automatic here grants the coupe a smooth ride.
The car is pretty nimble to drive and felt rather neutral in the twisties. Though it does have a tendency to understeer when pushed.
While the car is fitted with slightly stiffer springs, the body roll was still evident in the tighter bends which also explains its comfortable ride around town.
Conclusion
In recent memory, Peugeot has impressed again and again with every new model launched and the new RCZ is no different. Peugeot has once again displayed their ability to deliver a practical two seat (it is NOT a four seater no matter what the brochure says) sports coupe that not only appeals to the heart but to the mind as well.
The RCZ is a refreshing model from Peugeot as it reminds us that the French manufacturer is still well and truly capable of producing an emotive automobile that gets our hearts fluttering. But does it possess the same performance spirit of Peugeot models past?
No...but to be honest that really doesn't bother me at all. Why should it when I'm driving a car that looks this good?
sgCarMart would like to thank Jack Cars for providing the Peugeot RCZ for this review.
What do you think? Jot down your opinions at the comment box below.
In recent memory, Peugeot has impressed again and again with every new model launched and the new RCZ is no different. Peugeot has once again displayed their ability to deliver a practical two seat (it is NOT a four seater no matter what the brochure says) sports coupe that not only appeals to the heart but to the mind as well.
The RCZ is a refreshing model from Peugeot as it reminds us that the French manufacturer is still well and truly capable of producing an emotive automobile that gets our hearts fluttering. But does it possess the same performance spirit of Peugeot models past?
No...but to be honest that really doesn't bother me at all. Why should it when I'm driving a car that looks this good?
sgCarMart would like to thank Jack Cars for providing the Peugeot RCZ for this review.
What do you think? Jot down your opinions at the comment box below.
Photos by Benjamin G, Kline
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