Key facts:
Model tested: Peugeot RCZ 2+2 2.0 HDi 163 GT 2Dr
Price: £24,550
Date tested: July 2010
Road tester: Andy Goodwin

Ten Point Test
Auto Trader Ten Point Test rating: 83%
Every so often a car is released which redefines a brand. In recent years Peugeot has built few cars which looked great or excited drivers. Hopefully, thanks to the RCZ, that's no longer the case.

1. Looks 10/10
While the RCZ is similar in size and style to the Audi TT, it has a bolder design thanks to its wide grille, polished aluminium roof bars and swollen wheel arches. The roof is its biggest success though, with its 'double-bubble' rear canopy.

2. Looks inside 8/10
The 308-based interior isn't as exciting as the exterior, but it's still pretty good. Passengers sit low down so rear visibility can be an issue, but the side view is fine thanks to the long side window.

3. Practicality 7/10
As sports coupes go, the RCZ is one of the most practical. Its boot measures an impressive 384 litres; fold the rear seats and this jumps to 760 litres. The rear seats are tiny though.

4. Ride and Handling 8/10
The ride is firm with little body roll, but it's also comfortable and offers relaxed cruising. The only fly in the ointment is the steering, which does little to convey the large amount of grip on offer. The 200bhp petrol model has suspension tweaks, to improve response and agility.

5. Performance 8/10
The 161bhp diesel reaches 62mph in 8.2 seconds while the 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol, with either 154 or 197bhp, hits 62mph in 8 or 7.5 seconds respectively. The high-powered RCZ has a much rortier engine sound, thanks to acoustic tuning.

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6. Running Costs 8/10
The RCZ is one sports coupe which won't hurt the wallet. The diesel averages 53.2mpg and emits just 139g/km of CO2 so it's cheap to tax. Petrol RCZs manage between 42.1 and 40.9mpg and emit 155 to 159g/km of CO2.

7. Reliability 7/10
While the Peugeot RCZ may be a step in a new direction for Peugeot, mechanically it relies heavily on parts from the Peugeot 308. Peugeot has a good reliability record according to the Reliablity Index.

8. Safety 9/10
Driver, passenger and side airbags are standard, as is ESP. There's also a pop-up bonnet to protect pedestrians. The RCZ hasn't been crash tested by EuroNCAP, but Peugeot expects it to get five stars.

9. Equipment 8/10
Sport and GT trim levels are offered, the first with 18-inch alloy wheels, dual-zone air-con, rear parking sensors, alarm and immobiliser and a black roof panel. The GT adds leather upholstery, electric and heated front seats, front parking sensors, auto dipping door mirrors, auto wipers and lights, 19-inch alloys and sports seats.

10. X-Factor 9/10
The RCZ is undoubtedly the best-looking Peugeot for years, and also the most fun to drive. Only time will tell if it has the same impact as the successful Audi TT.