Renault unleashes ultimate Megane hot-hatch
Renaultsport – arguably the world's finest purveyor of hot-hatches – rolls out its fastest offering to date, the Megane 265 TrophyThe low-volume Renault Megane RS250 launched here last year and we applauded its giant-killing performance, which comes at a price that doesn't slay your wallet in the process.
Now the French brand's go-faster division has upped the ante via the even more exclusive Renaultsport Megane 265 Trophy, of which just 500 units will be sold worldwide. The stove-hot hatch will be unveiled at the World Series by Renault race at the Nurburgring on June 18-19, and it goes on sale in Europe in July.
The flagship Megane cops a host of upgrades to ensure it retains the ascendancy over the VW Golf R and Scirocco R, and the on-paper stats suggest it should just about do that.
A hike in boost pressure from 2.0 to 2.5 bar and a revised air intake combine to increase peak power from 184kW to 195kW, while torque rises from 340Nm to 360Nm. These outputs distinguish the Megane RS265 Trophy as the fastest, most potent Renaultsport offering to date.
Renault quotes a 0-100km/h split of 6.0sec (a tenth quicker than the RS250), while top speed rises from 251km/h to 254km/h. It should be noted that the 0-100 split could undoubtedly have been quicker with a Volkswagen DSG-style dual-clutch sequential gearbox, rather than the six-speed manual that's the only transmission offered.
As per the RS250, the new range-topper gets torque-steer-limiting front struts and a limited-slip differential, and drive is relayed to the tarmac via Bridgestone Potenza RE 050 rubber, wrapped around black 19-inch Speedline alloy wheels.
Further visual differentiation from the RS250 comes via LED daytime running lights and red Trophy decals on the doors and front air intake.
Interior tweaks include Recaro bucket seats, Renaultsport yellow seatbelts and stitching and the Renaultsport Monitor onboard computer for performance data. Of course, there's also the mandatory numbered plaque signifying the car's limited-edition status.
The Megane 265 Trophy will be offered in just two colours – yellow and black – and the sole option is a Diamond Black roof.
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