As one of the main brands in the market, it is always important when Renault puts a new car up for sale, and 2018 sees two major releases for the French manufacturer.
The Megane RS and the Zoe R110 are models in key demographics for the brand that will hopefully propel Renault to a successful year.
We take a look at those models to see how the brand will fare in 2018…
Megane R.S.
Having already tested the 2018 Megane R.S., it is right up there with the best hot hatchbacks on the market thanks to many new features. The third-generation RS comes with four-wheel steering to make it even better through the corners and a new 1.8-litre turbocharged petrol engine that produces 278bhp and 390Nm of torque. That equates to a top speed of 155mph and a 0-60mph time of 5.6 seconds – pretty rapid for a hot hatch.
This new Megane RS has kept the fun element of previous models, as the sharp handling and punchy engine combine to create a superb driving experience for all – with drivers able to choose from five driving modes to suit.
It also comes with plenty of kit, such as an 8.7-inch touchscreen, dual-zone climate control, cruise control, alcantara seats, a Bose surround sound speaker system, handsfree parking, rear parking camera and automatic emergency braking. You can also choose between Sport and Cup chassis packs to get the driving feel you’re after. Prices start from £27,495, with deliveries starting in July.
Zoe R110
Rather than an all-new model, Renault has brought an update to its compact all-electric model – the Zoe – and added a more powerful powertrain for improved performance. The R110 motor is derived from the R90 unit used in previous versions of the Zoe, and produces 107bhp – 15bhp more than in the R90. Renault claims the new unit will improve driving feel and performance, as well as giving customers more power options. When paired with an 80kWh battery pack, the R110 Zoe can go 186 miles on a single charge and go from 0-60mph in 11.7 seconds.
The Zoe will also be available with Android Auto for the first time this year, which allows Android smartphones to connect to the R-Link infotainment system and drivers to use compatible applications, such as Waze, Spotify and Deezer. Prices for the latest version of the Zoe start from £18,420 following the government’s plug-in car grant.
Both are expected to improve Renault’s standing in the hot hatch and electric vehicle markets, as they continue to offer exciting packages for a reasonable price.
