What’s it like to live with?
My girlfriend isn’t really that interested in cars. But, having enjoyed a ride in the RCZ through some country lanes she mused aloud, “Perhaps this is what the philosophers meant by ‘you must enjoy the journey’?”
The RCZ evokes emotional irrational responses like that. The most common being along the lines of, “it’s just trying to be a TT.”
The impressive and distinctive styling certainly turns heads like Audi TTs used to when they were rare. Only it is £8,000 less than the TT.
But the styling sets you up for a fall. The steering wheel, dashboard facia and controls are all ‘standard Peugeot hatchback.’ And I tried to ignore it, but it’s really hard to ignore what’s right in front of you. It’s a shame because the sport-seats are distinct, comfortable and stylish. Sadly that’s not enough to beat a TT.
Moving off, I never quite get away from the fact that the clutch is out of a 308. It has the same super-light, very-high bite point rather than a low-firm bite that makes a petrol-head’s nerve endings tingle with anticipation for the drive ahead. It will appeal to local and city drivers because it is easy on the ankle, but for me it was another little disappointment.
Don’t write the RCZ off however, instead head for a big motorway intersection or long-sweeping A-road. The balance of the car will amaze Stirling Moss, let alone you and me. There are a very small number of cars, never mind affordable cars, where you can turn in and hold the wheel in one position as the car hugs the right line, and hugs it, and hugs it and hugs it. The corner will always run out long before the car’s grip or balance.
It impressed my philosopher girlfriend so much that she almost got scared by how long it went on. You too should try a journey in this car. You will enjoy it.
What’s the right time to buy?
The early depreciation on the RCZ is disappointingly light. So buying nearly new doesn’t make much sense, unless you are in a rush.
However two and three year old cars will be relative bargains, so the thrifty buyer will wait for those opportunities.
What else does this budget buy?
In new terms, there is nothing as pretty for the money. But if you are looking at one year old cars with less than 10,000 miles on the clock, then the Audi TT is pretty much the same.
Summary
While it handles superbly, the overall drive falls short of the benchmarks set for it by the styling. An Audi TT rival, if not quite a TT beater.