Driving the RCZ R is – without a doubt – the most fun I’ve ever had in a Peugeot.

It’s not just its breathtaking power and agility. Its double bubble roof, dual sports exhaust and sporty interior all contribute to this car’s sex appeal. Fast and furious, it is powered by a new 1.6-litre engine producing an impressive 270bhp, making this range-topping performance version of the RCZ coupe the fastest Peugeot ever.

And it’s a lot of fun putting this into practise. The lowered centre of gravity, improved aerodynamic sensitivity, special suspension settings and Goodyear tyres optimise the grip and guarantee remarkable road holding.

The suspension and wheels adopt new damper patterns, increased spring stiffness and anti-roll centring moved back, offering greater agility.

Overtaking is an absolute joy and will certainly set pulses racing. It’s certainly not a quiet engine, but this isn’t necessarily a bad thing for such a sexy hot hatch.

The interior is black leather with contrasting red stitching and the seats are easily adjustable and very comfortable once you’re in (it’s never elegant climbing into a car like this). The dash is uncluttered and the small, flat-bottomed steering wheel further adds to its sporty feel. An electric handbrake would suit the car more than the old-fashioned variety, which seems to be situated awkwardly.

Standard equipment includes satnav, climate control, rear parking sensors, automatic wipers and xenon self-levelling headlights. Peugeot's Connect Navigation system and the Peugeot Connect USB Box with Bluetooth allows you to link up a smartphone or tablet.

It also has two front airbags, two side airbags and electronic stability programme (ESP) for reducing oversteer.

You can choose from four colours - Moroccan Red, Nera Black, Mercury Grey and Opal White; it also has an option list including a ‘brilliant’ or ‘satin’ black carbon roof, front parking aid or JBL Hi-Fi Pack.

Needless to say, it’s highly impractical and not remotely child-friendly, although booster seats can go in the passenger seat, along with rear-facing baby seats if you switch the airbag off. Boot space is surprisingly generous at 321 litres and there are back seats, but I don’t think they’re suitable even for little people. But this is a car to enjoy driving in without the kids, so indulge yourself.

Factfile
Car:
Peugeot RCZ R coupe 1.6
On the road: £32,000
Top speed: 155mph
0-62mph: 5.9 seconds
Fuel: 44.8mpg (combined)
CO2 emissions: 145g/km