Peugeot hit the industry headlines in August 2009 when they unveiled the new RCZ coupé. This variant of the 308 hatchback is a sporty two door model which obviously takes inspiration from the Audi TT. With a true 2+2 layout this represents a departure for Peugeot, hence the fact that it isn't named with a number.

The concept was shot into the spotlight in 2008, and generated quite a buzz. The fact that Peugeot have retained many of the features is testament to their desire to produce an exciting sporty car, which sits comfortably on the boundary between sports coupe and small car. The contoured roof which the concept featured is being retained for the production model, not simply for being attractive, but because it aids the aerodynamics. Following Audi's lead, Peugeot have also included an active spoiler to aid in keeping the car

With an estimated £19,000 price tag it is firmly in the upper echelon of small cars, but the fact that it is being launched as a rival to the TT and Scirocco while beating them both on price. It promises to be attractively economical to run as well, with the 1.6l 200bhp turbo engined edition rated at 165g or CO² per km.

The options for drivetrain also includes a standard 1.6l petrol in either manual or automatic and a 2.0l diesel manual. The diesel happily matches up in performance against the petrol models, with 52.3 mpg and 139g/km.

Peugeot have squarely aimed this at those who want something nippy and attractive, taking the rather uninspired and 308 and fixing everything that turned drivers away from it. With more responsive handling it promises to be a joy on the road. A more ergonomic driving position makes everything the RCZ do feel sporty. With a surprisingly large boot it compares well against more conservative small cars, but with the performance to compare favourably with more expensive coupes.

The motor press are anxious to get their hands on a production model for some road tests, in fact few can remember the last time a new car from Peugeot generated this level of interest. Peugeot have made changes in all the right places to give the RCZ the performance to match its slick styling. This may be the car which makes the world notice Peugeot again.