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A new Megane Renault Sport. Among car enthusiasts, those that really truly love to drive, it’s quietly agreed that Renault’s sporty division – called simply Renault Sport or RS for short – knows how to make a great hot hatch. The previous Megane RS didn’t sell in as high numbers as, say, the Volkswagen Golf GTI, but that’s because it was never designed to be an all-rounder, as happy carting the family around as attacking a mountain pass in anger. No, the Megane RS has always been focused on driving first and foremost. And for 2018 there’s be an all-new model, based on the fourth generation Megane hatchback currently on sale.
What will its rivals be?
The hot hatch segment has expanded throughout the years, though there are subtle sub-divisions within it now. At the lower end are junior hot hatches based on superminis like the Megane’s own sibling, the Clio, then there are warmed over regular models, such as the Megane GT. Topping the sector is the latest generation of super hatchbacks, like the Mercedes-AMG A 45, Golf R and Focus RS. In the middle, however, is where the biggest sales are, and that’s where the new Megane RS will sit, slugging it out with the Golf GTI, not to mention the Focus ST, Octavia RS and SEAT Leon Cupra. Other cars to consider include the Hyundai i30N and Peugeot 308 GTi. In short: the Renault won’t have things its own way.
Any tech info?
Renault has confirmed that the new Megane RS will feature its ‘4Control’ four-wheel-steering system. This isn’t quite as shopping trolley hilarious as it sounds… The rear wheels turn by just a few degrees, but it’s highly effective. At slow speeds, the back wheels turn in the opposite direction to the fronts, making the Megane more agile feeling (and easier to park, actually), while at high speed the rear wheels turn in the same direction as the fronts, which has the effect of stabilising the car during fast cornering or lane changes. Renault claims that the Megane will be the first in the segment to use this technology.
What will the range be like?
Details are still scant, but we expect the new Megane RS to be powered by a turbocharged 2.0-litre, four-cylinder petrol engine, producing close to 300hp. Renault has confirmed that buyers can choose between manual and dual-clutch automatic transmissions and that two different chassis set-ups will be offered. The Sport chassis will be the better all-round option, while keener drivers will go for the Cup set-up, said to ‘deliver the ultimate track performance experience.’
Expectations?
We think Renault will try to align the new Megane RS closer with the Golf GTI end of the market, marrying refinement and everyday usability with lot of performance and ability in the corners. Whether it can be a jack of all trades remains to be seen.