A Strikingly Impactful Design

The car is named RCZ. It's the first Peugeot to bear a name that doesn't include "0" or "00" in the middle. The lion emblem on the nose is also the first to use the new CI announced this year. A premonition of change. This sports coupe, unlike any Peugeot before it, may well open a new door for the brand.

Waiting in the courtyard of the Marqués de Riscal, a design hotel in Spain's Rioja region, the RCZ made a powerful first impression. While the front fascia shares a kinship with the 308 series, the rest is entirely different. Its proportions, in particular, are unique.

The lower body, with its dramatically flared front and rear fenders, gives a muscular impression. In contrast, the slim cabin above is pushed as far forward as possible, the opposite of the typical coupe silhouette. The aluminum arches along the side windows further accentuate its distinctiveness.

Moving to the rear, the double-bubble styling, reminiscent of classic Zagato designs, flowing from the roof to the rear window is also eye-catching. This isn't a retro motif, but rather inspired by the Peugeot 908 HDi FAP that won the 24 Hours of Le Mans last year. While one might feel it's a bit overdone, it's sure to be irresistible for Peugeot fans.

Its dimensions are 4,287mm long, 1,845mm wide, and 1,359mm high. It's almost the same length as the 308 hatchback, about 25mm wider, and over 150mm lower. The track widths of 1,580mm front and 1,593mm rear are also a substantial 44mm and 63mm wider, respectively. These dramatically low and wide dimensions, almost as if exaggerated, contribute to its unique and powerful presence.

Exhilarated by the Sports Car Driving Position

The interior also features a different spice compared to the 308 series. The meters before the driver's eyes are adorned with chrome rings, and the circular air vents on the leather-clad dashboard, a Peugeot specialty, have their center vent replaced with an analog clock. Most significantly, the extremely low seating position, dictated by the low roofline, transforms the atmosphere. The sporty seats are 45mm lower than those in the 308 CC, naturally creating a sports car-like posture with legs stretched forward. This inevitably heightens the driver's spirits.

However, comfort is limited to the front seats. The rear seats are purely for occasional use. For this reviewer, fitting in with my 177cm frame, even with legs spread, my knees and other parts would catch, and I'd have to keep my head bowed. It's best to consider them for luggage or for securing a baby seat.

On the other hand, the luggage space is more generous than it appears. With a capacity of 321 liters (VDA) in normal configuration, and expandable to a maximum of 639 liters (VDA) by folding down the rear seatbacks, it's sufficient for a trip for two adults, or perhaps two adults and a small child.

Supple Suspension for a Comfortable Ride

The lineup includes two gasoline engines and one diesel. The models test-driven were a 1.6-liter direct-injection gasoline turbo producing 200ps and a 2-liter direct-injection diesel turbo with 163ps, both paired with a 6-speed manual transmission. Japan will receive a left-hand drive version of the former with a 6-speed manual, and a 156ps version of the same engine with a 6-speed automatic and right-hand drive.

The first model I drove was the 2-liter diesel with a 6-speed manual. Although diesel won't be available in Japan, the suspension is the same as the Japanese 156ps + 6-speed AT version.

The moment I started driving, I was impressed by the high level of comfort. The suspension strokes smoothly, skillfully absorbing shocks of all sizes. While the large 235/45R18 tires do cause a slight jolt over road imperfections, the ride comfort is exceptionally high for this type of sports model. After all, the RCZ is still a French car. On the other hand, it lacks a sense of directness and engaging handling, but it's not a bad choice if you prioritize ambiance for daily use.

If driving performance is your top priority, the 200ps 6-speed manual is the one to choose. Not only does it have superior power, but it also offers the driving pleasure worthy of being called a sports car.

Equipped as standard with a sports pack that includes a small-diameter steering wheel and a 6-speed manual with shortened shift throws, it heightens the anticipation even before you start driving. The actual operation is also excellent, and the steering wheel, in particular, effectively conveys the feel of its low rotational inertia.

An Open, Resonant Engine Note as You Press the Accelerator

The pleasant surprises continue even after starting to drive. As you press the accelerator, a clear, resonant "kwon" sound reaches your ears in response to your right foot's movement. This is the effect of the sound system included in the sports pack. It's not about raw sound quality, but rather a deliberate enhancement. It's surprising and delightful that Peugeot, which has focused heavily on its diesel engines that dominate the European market, has put so much effort into its gasoline engines.

The sound intensifies as the revs climb, but the torque curve is remarkably flat. With a maximum torque of 275Nm available across a wide range from 1,700 to 4,500 rpm, you can achieve strong acceleration instantly, regardless of the gear or the starting RPM.

The maximum output of 200ps is also delivered over a broad range, from 5,500 to 6,800 rpm. While this means it lacks the exhilarating rush of a high-revving engine, it offers the joy of precise speed control and a sense of unity with the car.

Exceptional Ground Contact, as if Glued to the Road

The handling complements the powertrain's performance, being equally superb. The steering wheel responds instantly to even the slightest input, maintaining precise feedback through deep turns. The limits are high, making it difficult to even squeal the tires in tight corners. Cornering at medium to high speeds is also exhilarating. The excellent front-rear balance and low center of gravity are fully utilized, allowing you to enjoy cornering with an exceptional sense of grip, as if glued to the road.

The tires are even lower profile at 235/40R19, and the suspension is further tightened, yet the ride is by no means harsh. In some situations, the suppression of unnecessary movement even makes it feel more comfortable. The tuning of the two models is clearly differentiated.

The RCZ, with its unique and rich charm in both styling and driving dynamics, has already been announced for the Japanese market, with pricing revealed. The 156ps 6-speed AT version, aided by its novelty, is poised to be a strong rival to the Audi TT Coupe. The 200ps version, in particular, as a rare and affordably priced left-hand drive manual sports coupe, is sure to attract keen attention from enthusiasts.

While Peugeot seemed to be in a bit of a slump in recent years, dealer traffic appears to be picking up, and attractive models like this, conveying a fresh breeze, are being introduced. The launch of the RCZ seems poised to strongly support Peugeot's resurgence.