The arrival of the latest Renault Megane RS is on the horizon. The return of the one of the most iconic names in the hot hatch segment sees this latest Megane RS handed a variety of different features designed to keep it in the running against some serious competitors.
Here, we take a look at some of the key aspects that are set to make the Megane RS as capable as possible on both road and track.
The engine
Under the bonnet of the Megane RS sits a 1.8-litre turbocharged petrol engine (it’s also the same that you’ll find in the elegant Alpine A110 sports car). It produces 276bhp and 390Nm of torque, which, though some way behind rivals in terms of outright power, will still give it enough punch for all occasions.
Gearbox
Renault got itself into a little bit of trouble with the current-generation Clio RS, offering it up with a dual-clutch automatic gearbox – and nothing else. It hasn’t made the same mistake again though, as this latest Megane RS is available with either a dual-clutch of six-speed manual gearbox.
Though it’s likely that the manual will be the choice of purists, we think that the dual-clutch automatic will also be extremely effective.
Steering
The power deficit that the Megane RS is dealing with over rivals – its 276bhp is routinely trumped by the likes of the Honda Civic Type R and Mercedes-AMG A45, both with over 300bhp – is, according to Renault, made better by the car’s adoption of four-wheel-steering.
This system gives better agility through the bends, as well as improved high-speed stability – something which should narrow the gap between the Megane and its rivals.
Increased downforce
As well as a wider track, with wings up 60mm at the front and 45mm at the rear, the new Megane RS benefits from air extractors and a rear diffuser which should help to increase downforce when moving quickly.
Though this is unlikely to make too much of a difference when driving on the road, those drivers who plan on taking their Megane RS to the track will likely benefit from these increased aerodynamic touches.
Chassis options
As well as two different types of gearbox, there are also two separate choices of chassis. The first, more road-focused option is the Sport chassis. This is the softer setup, and is there for those who want to use their Megane RS for more routine uses.
However, the Cup chassis is the ideal choice for those who want a more involving driving experience. Firmer and sharper than the Sport set-up, it makes sense for those who want to drive their Megane in a slightly keener fashion.
Video capture
As well as being supremely capable on road and track, the new Megane RS features technology that allows the driver to capture their handiwork on video. Incorporated as part of the car’s R.S Monitor Expert system, it enables the driver to connect a camera and film their drive.
Then, the system overlays key performance data over the footage, and this can then be uploaded to the internet or social media.
