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Easily one of the most underrated hot hatches on the market today, the Renault RS Trophy stuns with its power and cornering capabilities.
There are more options than ever before for those in the market for a hot hatchback. Despite many new entrants, including the Hyundai i30N and the Toyota GR Yaris, sometimes the established players are the best option. Renault has been producing hot hatchback versions of the Megane, and its smaller sibling the Clio for many years now.
The latest model is the modern-day iteration of the 2004 original and has a list price of around $40,000. Hot hatchbacks are generally a compelling option for gearheads, particularly those who enjoy extracting every last drop of performance from their cars. For the driving enthusiast, the Renault Megane RS has a great deal to offer, let's now explore some of the car's most notable strengths.
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The Megane RS Trophy is a very sporty-looking hatchback. The accomplished design is a logical progression from that found in previous generations. The rear end is arguably the most attractive aspect of the Trophy, with a vast diffuser and a center-mounted exhaust. RS badging lets those around you know the car is something a bit special.
Underneath the highly desirable 19' inch Fuji Light alloy wheels, red Brembo brake calipers can be seen, suggesting the car has some serious stopping power.
Underneath the stunning bodywork, the car is built around an exclusive "Cup chassis". Tuned to improve on-road performance, Renault has modified several aspects to achieve their aspirations.
To this extent, the car features stiffened anti-roll bars. Similarly, other suspension components such as the shock absorbers and coil springs have been made far firmer. These changes ensure body roll is minimized, and overall compliance is improved. Consequently, more speed can be carried through the corners, and higher levels of G-force can be handled.
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The inclusion of a number of Renault Sport Technologies is what elevates this car above other hot hatchbacks. Many of the features can be controlled via a 10'' Renault Sport driver's screen and a 9.3'' centrally mounted Easy link screen.
These technological innovations help drivers to extract the maximum performance possible from the car. "R.S. Monitor" provides a vast amount of data, the telemetric system lets drivers see where time was lost or gained most during a circuit shootout. "R.S. Vision," is essentially an uprated lighting package, and "launch control" speaks for itself.
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For over 120 years, Renault has been developing automotive technologies to enable it to compete in motorsport. The Brand has entered many categories, from Formula One to Renault Clio Cup and WRC Rally.
The team has taken the enviable Constructor's championship title twice, in 2005 and 2006. On both occasions, legendary driver Fernando Alonso was behind the wheel, and additionally won the Driver’s championship. The team is now known as Alpine and is currently competing with Fernando Alonso and Esteban Ocon for the 2022 season.
Something all driving enthusiasts look for in a car is great performance credentials. Fortunately, this is one area in which the Megane RS Trophy more than satisfies. Fitted with a 300 hp, 1.8-liter, turbocharged engine under its hood, the RS is the most powerful production Renault Sport model ever made.
With all this power, 0-60 mph can be achieved in just 5.7 seconds, and the car can continue on to a decent 160 mph top speed.
The Megane RS Trophy is extremely composed during cornering. Named "4Control", the system enables four wheels to steer the car.
4Control is speed-dependent, and at high speed all four wheels turn in the same direction, to improve turn-in. At lower speeds, below approximately 37 mph, the front and rear wheels turn in opposite directions improving maneuverability.
The previous generation of the car was available with a six-speed manual, a feature often desired by potential owners.
The current car has lost this option, and can now only be selected with a dual-clutch transmission. While not offering the same level of engagement, the box is at least a seven-speed. Being dual-clutch, it is the next best alternative to the manual of old, offering rapid shifting ability.
One particularly cool feature, and something only found on the Megane, is a rally-inspired suspension setup.
Utilizing hydraulic compression stops, the car's shock absorbers have a higher damping ability. Tire rebound is minimized, and handling is improved as a result. This technology is rally-derived, and greatly improves the car's breadth of ability.
With the RS Trophy being the most hardcore version of the Megane, it is harder to handle than the standard car.
That is not to say the car is difficult to drive, it is just not as refined and usable as a daily driver as some of it rivals. Drivers opting for the RS Trophy really need to desire the performance and engagement on offer. There is simply no point in opting for the car if you are going to drive more sedately, as you will only scratch the surface.
Helping extract the maximum possible power from the car's engine, a limited-slip differential has been fitted, maximizing grip, through reduced wheel spin.
Given the massive amount of power the RS Trophy's engine generates, the inclusion of a limited-slip differential was definitely a wise decision.
Benjamin has always had an interest in all things automotive. He is a keen follower of Formula One, and is particularly enjoying watching the rise of George Russell and Lando Norris. He is most knowledgeable about modern cars, but is learning more and more about classics. Currently based just North of London.