The most powerful production Renault ever made has gone into production.
The Megane RS Trophy develops 300hp from its turbocharged 1.8 litre petrol engine. That’s 20hp up on the 280hp developed by the Megane RS on which it’s based. Torque is also up from 390 to 400Nm for the manual version and 420Nm if you go for an automatic.
That increase in power is down to an improved turbocharger and exhaust system. No detail appears to have been too small to be overlooked – the ball bearings attached to the turbo are now ceramic, with the lighter weight and reduced friction allowing it to spool up quicker.
Buyers can pair the engine to either a six-speed manual or a dual-clutch six-speed auto.
The RS Trophy uses the same chassis as the Megane RS Cup but boasts 25 per cent firmer shock absorbers, 30 per cent tighter springs and ten per cent stiffer anti-roll bars.
Those additions work alongside the 4Control four-wheel steering system and four hydraulic bump stop shock absorbers. A mechanical valve even lets drivers tinker with the sound of the exhaust.
With the extra power, Renault claims 0-62mph in 5.7 seconds, while top speed is up to 162mph. That’s a tenth quicker to 62mph and 7mph faster than the 280hp model.
The R.S Trophy gets new brakes at the front, supplied by Brembo. The discs measure 355mm, while Renault claims that they’re 1.8kg lighter than the standard brakes, too. They’re housed behind new, exclusive 19in alloy wheels, while a lighter wheel design – saving 2kg at each corner – will become available in 2019.
As with previous Trophy models, the Megane RS version comes in Liquid Yellow paint, with Renault also adding stripes to the F1-style front spoiler.
Prices start at £31,810 for the six-speed manual gearbox model. Equipped with the six-speed automatic EDC (efficient dual-clutch) gearbox it costs from £33,510.
Order books are open now and first deliveries are expected in February.