Pit the CZT against its closest competitors, cars such as the 147bhp Ford Fiesta ST, 137bhp Peugeot 206 GTi and the 150bhp Seat Ibiza FR, and it proves a little hotter than its rivals. It can complete the 0-60mph run in 7.5sec, just managing to outgun the normally aspirated Fiesta ST and 206 GTi (by 0.3sec and 0.9sec respectively) and pip the turbocharged 1.8-litre Ibiza FR by one-tenth of a second. It’s no match, however, for a Clio Cup.
It’s the Colt’s 155lb ft of torque that really helps increase the sensation of speed. Overtaking becomes easy: 50-70mph in fifth gear takes just 7.8sec, faster than a Fiesta ST, 206 GTi and even the all-conquering Clio 182. The gearlever’s short throw makes snapping through the ’box quickly easy, although it’s imprecise and positioned a touch too low for comfort. But the uprated front brakes are impressive, bringing the Colt’s 1125kg to a halt with real urgency.
However, initial impressions suggest the CZT isn’t quite as dynamically sharp as we were hoping. The steering feels cumbersome around town, and too much throttle out of slow bends has the wheel wriggling in your hands. Two things conspire to rob confidence: first, there is very little feedback through the steering or pedals, but second, and more important, under rapid braking or with a sharp lift of the throttle the CZT’s uncertain directional stability can spook the unwary.
It isn’t all bad news, though. The ride over most surfaces is comfortable and quiet, and the CZT unveils a hidden charm when pushed. It might not have the handling finesse of the Fiesta ST, but it does feel surprisingly alive. At speed it exhibits fine body control and the nervous rear end becomes a helpful tool to pivot the car in the direction that you intend to take.
