As the “Lux” in its name implies, this new Mégane RS could finally offer some real-world usability. Or not…
Have there really been only three generations of the Mégane RS? First brought to market in 2004, the most focused version of the second-generation Mégane not only introduced the hot hatch fraternity to the Dieppe-based RenaultSport department’s black-magic handling wizardry, but also placed immediate pressure on every other fast front-wheel-drive rival to up their game.
That pressure would prove relentless as Renault made the most of both its links with Formula One and a desire for continued segment success by launching myriad special editions and limited-run Mégane RS models, each boasting stepped-up performance and further-evolved handling characteristics. It culminated in the sharpest of all with the second-generation Mégane RS line-up and the RS 275 Trophy that claimed the Nürburgring Nordschleife lap record for a front-wheel-drive car.
While track-based successes and lap records certainly do wonders for reputation, they don’t always translate into sales volume. As much as there may be an occasional boy racer in every driver of a warm hatch, the needs of everyday motoring life, including occasionally taking your mom to the shops, inevitably dictates just how focused your hatchback can be. It’s within this careful compromise where Volkswagen has enjoyed so much success with its Golf GTI.
At the heart of each Mégane RS line-up has been both carefully considered performance outputs as well as honed suspension configurations, distinguishable via Sport, Cup or Trophy designations. While the hardcore Trophy version of the newest, fourth-generation Mégane was recently announced, until that variant arrives, Renault South Africa will offer both this Sport (dubbed Lux in our market) and its Cup sibling.
Topping a recently reprofiled local Mégane line-up, the new RS models are instantly recognisable from the three remaining, less-powerful derivatives via a suitably wider stance (60 mm up front and 45 mm at the rear) complete with vent-riddled wheelarches, bespoke front bumper (including an “F1-inspired” blade diffuser and slightly gimmicky RS Vision fog lamps) and a centrally mounted exhaust tailpiece housing.
Indeed, even without the optional Tango Orange paintwork applied to our test unit, there’s no escaping the sense of purpose handed to even this, the “softest” Lux model. While 18-inch alloy wheels are standard fitment to this derivative, an upgrade to the Cup’s 19-inch items (as seen here) is also available. The Cup remains distinguishable via its slightly lower stance (7 mm) and red brake callipers. RenaultSport interior upgrades include deep bucket seats, chrome and carbon-look trim bits, bespoke infotainment system displays and a generously moulded steering wheel.
Priced identically, both RS models feature Renault’s new turbocharged 1,8-litre engine mated with a six-speed EDC (dual-clutch) transmission in the Lux and a six-speed manual ‘box in the Cup derivative. Boasting 205 kW and 390 N.m of torque, the prevalence of wheel spin off the line – even when activating the EDC’s launch-control function – is perhaps why Renault claims an identical 0-100 km/h sprint time (5,8 seconds) for both transmission types. Despite chirping its wheels and displaying mild torque steer, the best time of 6,11 seconds we recorded was slightly quicker than the impressive GTI Clubsport S (with its manual ‘box) tested in June 2017.
Straight-line performance aside, RenaultSport models are known for their handling prowess and, with its latest offering, Renault introduces a new, er, dynamic to the hot-hatch melee. Able to adjust the angle of the rear wheels by up to 2,7 degrees, the new Mégane RS’ 4 Control steering system tilts the aft rubber in the opposite direction to that of the front at speeds below 60 km/h (this threshold rising to 100 km/h in race mode), whereafter they mimic the direction of the front wheels (effectively lengthening the car’s wheelbase) for stability in high-speed bends.
While the most obvious characteristic of this system is a heightened initial bite on lower-speed turn-in, there’s no denying the newest Mégane RS builds on the legacy of its forebears by offering not only a prodigious amount of front-end grip, but also a newfound level of rear playfulness.
Given the inherent dynamic abilities of the suspension tuning, the jury may be out as to whether the car actually needs four-wheel steering. And it’s a jury that may be even more inclined to return a guilty verdict when it considers the Cup version and its 25% firmer shock absorbers, 30% tighter springs, 10% stiffer anti-roll bars and Torsen mechanical limited-slip differential.
Road test score
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