Peugeot’s addictive sports car

The 2014 Peugeot RCZ R is the company's most powerful production car ever, says Ed Callow in What Car magazine. It was conceived to go up against not just fast coups, but also the best hot hatches. So how does it do?

With a power hike of almost 40% over the hottest of the previous cars in the range, it's no surprise to discover that the R model now has the pace to match the fastest hot hatches.

And it's "a real hoot" to drive, says Callow: the short-throw gearlever makes shifts feel precise and satisfying, the lowered, stiffer suspension makes cornering sharp, the ride is stiff but not uncomfortable, and there's a tremendous amount of grip.

It also feels classy in the cabin, and the engine makes a fantastic noise, yet the car's also a practical proposition, with good fuel economy and a decent sized boot.

The R marks a "performance upgrade of such subtlety and aplomb it makes you smile just to think about it", says Andrew English in The Daily Telegraph. It is throughly entertaining to drive, looks terrific, and the low carbon emissions mean your wallet won't get strangled by the taxman. Once you've driven it, you'll feel like jumping up and down clapping. It's addictive fun.

Price: £31,995Engine: 1,598cc, four-cylinder, turbocharged petrolPower: 270bhp at 6,000rpmTorque: 330lb ft at 5,500rpmTop speed: 155mph (limited)0-62mph: 5.9 secondsFuel economy: 33.6mpg/44.8mpg (EU Urban/Combined)Carbon emissions: 145g/km