THERE are few cars that still look as fresh now as they did on the day they first appeared at a motor show.

But to my eyes at least, the Peugeot RCZ is one that has stood the test of time very well. It's as good looking as the Audi TT and much sleeker than the VW Scirocco.

The cheapest RCZ Sport is almost as quick as the cheapest TT and drives just as well, but with like for like equipment, it is £3,000 cheaper.

Power comes from Peugeot's excellent 1.6 turbo, which in basic form, produces 156bhp. That doesn't sound like much, but believe me, it's enough.

Its wide power band and eager nature make the car a joy to drive and give safe overtaking on most straight stretches of road.

The road holding is totally amazing. I would love to drive one of these on a circuit, because on the road, it's never safe enough to reach the limits.

The only downside is an unsettled ride at times.

There's plenty of seat and column adjustment to get comfortable and the seats hold perfectly in the corners.

Equipment includes a leather covered steering wheel, traction and stability control, climate, electric windows, automatic folding mirrors and a bigger than average boot for a coupe.