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The 2013 Peugeot RCZ has undergone a facelift with a sportier, futuristic-looking exterior to match its thrillingly powerful engine ... and it’s a true attention-grabber in more ways than one.
Three years since its introduction into the market and after being awarded Middle East’s Coupe of the Year in 2012, it has received a nip ‘n’ tuck to its trim and an equipment update.
The double bubble roof was one of the many highlights that first attracted me to the car and from the moment I left Zayani Motors, the local dealers, showroom in Ma’ameer, I quickly started to turn heads.
Having this sleek and sporty ride over Formula One weekend was an added bonus as driving up to fancy events in the evening made me feel like a glamorous celebrity fit for the red carpet, which ironically matched the red amber paint job of the RCZ that was bestowed upon me.
Driving towards the Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) in Sakhir, I put the 1.6-litre turbo-charged six-speed engine with up to 200bhp to the test. The low-rider hugged the curves and still managed to make me feel as though I was floating during the drive. On accelerating, once the turbo kicked in, I felt serenely safe and secure in the bucket seats. In fact, I am a big fan of sports-style seats as they make me feel like a true racing car driver.
As I pulled up to the BIC media parking area, I was treated like royalty and guided to a space that was only a few steps away from the gate. At that point it was obvious; this vehicle had a lot more to offer than just speed – it felt like a status symbol.
The RCZ’s design is bold and beguiling with its sculpted sides and curved wings. The feline headlamps are quintessentially Peugeot as are with the ruby rear lamps and signature lion emblem that compliments the roar of the engine. The sportiness is derived from the contour of its bonnet and its chromed twin exhaust tailpipe.
The fine-grained leather panelled interior was modern and stylish as was its cool metal inserts, which complimented the dynamic cabin.
I particularly liked the leather finish with the double stitching, which reminded me of my comfortable couch at home. The makers have even integrated internal design features from motorsport, such as the clock, instrument panels, the metal and carbon-effect background of the dials and the satin chrome inserts on the steering wheel.
The levers behind the steering wheel made things easy to reach and use, from the cruise control feature to changing between radio stations and adjusting the volume.
Surprisingly, the coupe is a four-seater, with two rear seats sitting directly below the heart of the double bubble that allows more height and space for passengers. The boot has generous storage space, which can be increased by folding the rear seats.
Sexy, spacious and fast, this two-door beauty has the mark of a champion that anyone would be proud to drive.
Strangers soon approached me asking how much it went for. I was asked so many times that I began blurting out that it costs just BD13,700 on the road. I then turned into a sales person and told them about the special offer where it could be snapped up for BD199 per month, with limited stock, until Tuesday.
I was a little sad to hand over the keys. I have loved the attention the car generated at the F1 parties, at the circuit and amongst my friends.
For more information, call the Zayani Motors showroom in Ma’ameer on 17703703.
