RenaultSport, the performance division of Renault, is responsible for the development and production of the performance gems in the French manufacturer’s hatchback line-ups. These include the Twingo RS, Clio RS and the bigger Mégane RS.
As it stands, the Mégane RS is our hot hatch Top 12 winner, but, it seems things are about to get more interesting. RenaultSport has released a video that shows its engineers and test drivers hard at work at the Nürburgring Nordschleife.
The subtle hint in the video of the previous generation Mégane R26R that drives past could point to a possible lighter version of the current Mégane RS Cup.
The Mégane R26R didn’t receive a boost in power from the regular Mégane RS, but with a roll-cage, lighter windows and no radio (just to name a couple of the weight-saving measures that were implemented), RenaultSport was able to lighten the car by a significant 123 kg. At the time it was the fastest front-wheel drive car around the Nordschleife.
Fortunately we wouldn’t have to wait very long to find out what this new model will be all about. RenaultSport has promised to spill the beans on June 17.
*Update: Renault South Africa confirmed today that this new RS will have more power than the current 184 kW and 340 N.m, but couldn't confirm any other information or details.