Renault’s answer to the upcoming Golf R is now on sale
February 06, 2023
For the uninitiated, the Renault Megan R.S 300 TROPHY is the French brand's apex hatchback, much like what the Golf R is to Volkswagen, except the Renault is more coveted due to its exclusivity (it's only available in limited numbers). This latest version of the MEGANE R.S marks 18 years of the model's existence. So what can you expect in this newer and meaner MEGANE?
Changes and upgrades
Not much has changed in the design front, but this isn't the worst thing that could happen to the R.S considering its flawless outline, which hasn't aged a day since it was first cast into metal. For an added edge, the MEGANE R.S 300 TROPHY has been given an F1-style splitter and rear diffuser, and a set of 19-inch wheels with four-wheel steering to complete the stance.
The cabin feels just as sporty as its exterior, with R.S branded Alcantara-clad racing seats. Aluminium pedals and a gear selector covered in the same brushed metal add to the performance feel, and so does the red centre marker on the steering wheel. Ultimately, the French have done more here to give you a true performance car feel than the Germans would ever dare in their competing hatch.
In this league, performance carries more weight than anything else. That's how your worth is measured. The MEGANE is equipped with a 1.8-litre 4-cylinder engine like its predecessors, however, all the figures have changed. The motor delivers 221 kW at 6000 rpm and 420 Nm at 3200 rpm. It's all channelled through a 6-speed dual-clutch gearbox, enabling the R.S to reach a top speed of 260 km/h after breaching the 100km/h mark in 5.7 seconds. A set of Brembo callipers has been fitted to reign in the hatch after every heated run. For superior handling and traction, the R.S has a Torsen mechanical limited slip differential as well as the four-wheel steering we mentioned.
For an enhanced driving experience, it has launch control as well as two exhaust notes that are controlled by valves in the system. The gearbox has what they call Multi Change Down, which allows you to change down several gears in one go during braking, by holding down the left pedal.
Nothing this unique comes with a regular price tag, and by unique we mean only 55 of these MEGANE R.S 300 TROPHY units will be sold here, and those who get their hands on one will likely hang on to it. We're looking at an asking price of R899 900 for the new MEGANE R.S 300 TROPHY. With the upcoming Golf R set to be in the same price ballpark, the French aren't asking for a lot for a slice of exclusivity.
Words: Gugu Masuku
