Renault Megane RS 2.0T (M) Review
29 Oct 2010|23,146 views
The French have never really been known for making any particularly noteworthy supercars. Then again, as far as my memory serves me, France doesn't even have a supercar at all. I know the hardcore among you are gonna fault me by calling out, "Bugatti Veyron!" but it isn't all that French underneath is it?
While the western European state is short on supercars, it is however brimming with critically acclaimed hot hatches. The Renault 5 Turbo, Peugeot 205 GTI, Renault R26 and R27 have all been well received by journalists and car enthusiasts alike. And if you really want me to, the list goes on™
Exterior
The new heir to the RS throne is built upon the same body style as the 3rd generation Megane sport coupe. Unlike the donor car, the RS comes as a svelte looking three door as opposed to five in the regular coupe.
While the western European state is short on supercars, it is however brimming with critically acclaimed hot hatches. The Renault 5 Turbo, Peugeot 205 GTI, Renault R26 and R27 have all been well received by journalists and car enthusiasts alike. And if you really want me to, the list goes on™
Exterior
The new heir to the RS throne is built upon the same body style as the 3rd generation Megane sport coupe. Unlike the donor car, the RS comes as a svelte looking three door as opposed to five in the regular coupe.
 |
In the front, the most obvious change comes from the lower bumper that has been completely replaced with a shiny piano black splitter and a front face that blends in with the headlights. The splitter's unique form parallels the front aerodynamic wing of a F1 car. This wing shape creates a certain amount of aerodynamic downforce at speed keeping the front wheels firmly planted on the bitumen.
 |
It doesn't hurt that this wing shape together with the front fascia forms a sinister grin that you can greet your potential victims with. Bright LED daytime running lights are incorporated into both sides of the splitter as well for greater visibility to your victims. In the centre beyond the gaping black hole sits the turbo's intercooler.
From the side, you can fully appreciate the car's low ground hugging stance that adds to its 'fast even when standing still' impression. Fenders have been added to widen the RS's stance further. Trailing off the end of the roof is a discrete spoiler that gives the car an even sleeker profile. In the rear, the most prominent feature comes from the diffuser that houses the central exhaust encased in an elegantly shaped trapezoidal tailpipe.
While the brochure offers 19 inch alloys as an option, I would personally recommend sticking to the 18 inch satin black (matt black) rims as they play off the sporty exterior best.
From the side, you can fully appreciate the car's low ground hugging stance that adds to its 'fast even when standing still' impression. Fenders have been added to widen the RS's stance further. Trailing off the end of the roof is a discrete spoiler that gives the car an even sleeker profile. In the rear, the most prominent feature comes from the diffuser that houses the central exhaust encased in an elegantly shaped trapezoidal tailpipe.
While the brochure offers 19 inch alloys as an option, I would personally recommend sticking to the 18 inch satin black (matt black) rims as they play off the sporty exterior best.
An added bonus is that the black camouflages the inevitable brake dust, dirt and grime so well that no one will ever guess the dollops of fun you've been having.
Interior
The interior in the RS has definitely made a quantum leap over the R26 in terms of quality and fittings. While performance wasn't lacking in the older R26, complaints mainly came from the less than inspiring interior. In the RS though, things are looking sprightly. The interior, like in the Megane Coupe comes wrapped with lots of soft touch plastics that give solid tactile feedback.
To make the RS's interior really special, a pair of Recaro half-buckets keep both driver and passenger firmly in place when the driving gets furious. They even have slots for racing harnesses if you so choose. In the driving seat, the driver feels cocooned by all the control surfaces. The steering, pedals and gearshift are all within comfortable and easy reach. Begging for abuse.
Interior
The interior in the RS has definitely made a quantum leap over the R26 in terms of quality and fittings. While performance wasn't lacking in the older R26, complaints mainly came from the less than inspiring interior. In the RS though, things are looking sprightly. The interior, like in the Megane Coupe comes wrapped with lots of soft touch plastics that give solid tactile feedback.
To make the RS's interior really special, a pair of Recaro half-buckets keep both driver and passenger firmly in place when the driving gets furious. They even have slots for racing harnesses if you so choose. In the driving seat, the driver feels cocooned by all the control surfaces. The steering, pedals and gearshift are all within comfortable and easy reach. Begging for abuse.
 |
The cabin is inhabited with plenty of racy bits to remind you that this is anything but your standard Megane. Yellow seat belts are another indication though some might not agree with them. On the dashboard, carbon fibre trim line the dash along with brushed aluminium on the gear knob and pedals to further underline its sporty aspirations. The dials on the instrument panel takes on a sporty appeal as well with the most important dial, the tachometer, highlighted in yellow like in a Ferrari.
While the centre console is identical to the one fitted in the Megane Coupe, the one presented here comes with a couple of party tricks. Depressing both buttons situated at the top of the control stalk on the steering column calls up the RenaultSport Monitor. Essentially the same telemetry system used in the Nissan GTR.
Scrolling through the pages calls up graphs for acceleration forces (both transverse and longitudinal), engine parameters in real time and temperatures for different systems. Renault was even kind enough to include a lap timer with memory function!
Even though the RS is a performance oriented model, some practicality remains. While getting into the rear seats might pose as a bit of a challenge for some, once in you find that the rear is spacious enough for two adults with plenty of legroom. Storage in the boot isn't too bad as well with 377 litres of space available and supplemented with split-folding rear seats.
While the centre console is identical to the one fitted in the Megane Coupe, the one presented here comes with a couple of party tricks. Depressing both buttons situated at the top of the control stalk on the steering column calls up the RenaultSport Monitor. Essentially the same telemetry system used in the Nissan GTR.
Scrolling through the pages calls up graphs for acceleration forces (both transverse and longitudinal), engine parameters in real time and temperatures for different systems. Renault was even kind enough to include a lap timer with memory function!
Even though the RS is a performance oriented model, some practicality remains. While getting into the rear seats might pose as a bit of a challenge for some, once in you find that the rear is spacious enough for two adults with plenty of legroom. Storage in the boot isn't too bad as well with 377 litres of space available and supplemented with split-folding rear seats.
The Drive
Power for this track attack machine is derived from the same 4-cylinder turbocharged unit in the R26. Though the engineers at RenaultSport Technologies developed the engine further to produce 20 more ponies and 30Nm more torque bringing total figures to 250bhp and 340Nm of torque. For those who find a semi-auto box uninspiring, the RS comes with a six-speed manual that'll keep hardcore motorheads (i.e. the author) happy. Swopping cogs in this box feels direct and precise but although the throw is shorter than normal, it's still not as short as say, a Type-R's. Acceleration off the line is 6.1 seconds to 100kmh. An 0.4 second improvement over the older R26.
The RS comes with a Cup chassis which means it rides on lower and harder springs, an enhanced steering rack, wider tyres and a LSD (Limited Slip Differential). What this all means is that the RS is right at home in the twisty bits. The harder springs ensure that the hatch stays flat around the bends. The tweaked steering gives excellent feedback and goes precisely where you point it. The mechanical LSD ensures that plenty of grip is available at corner exits while at the same time eliminating torque steer that was present in the previous R26. Braking power here is provided by Brembo with a four pot and slotted discs in the front and a two pot setup in the rear. The feel of the brake pedals too is hard to fault. Giving plenty of feed back while the pedals in general are aptly spaced apart for heel and toe ballet.
Power for this track attack machine is derived from the same 4-cylinder turbocharged unit in the R26. Though the engineers at RenaultSport Technologies developed the engine further to produce 20 more ponies and 30Nm more torque bringing total figures to 250bhp and 340Nm of torque. For those who find a semi-auto box uninspiring, the RS comes with a six-speed manual that'll keep hardcore motorheads (i.e. the author) happy. Swopping cogs in this box feels direct and precise but although the throw is shorter than normal, it's still not as short as say, a Type-R's. Acceleration off the line is 6.1 seconds to 100kmh. An 0.4 second improvement over the older R26.
The RS comes with a Cup chassis which means it rides on lower and harder springs, an enhanced steering rack, wider tyres and a LSD (Limited Slip Differential). What this all means is that the RS is right at home in the twisty bits. The harder springs ensure that the hatch stays flat around the bends. The tweaked steering gives excellent feedback and goes precisely where you point it. The mechanical LSD ensures that plenty of grip is available at corner exits while at the same time eliminating torque steer that was present in the previous R26. Braking power here is provided by Brembo with a four pot and slotted discs in the front and a two pot setup in the rear. The feel of the brake pedals too is hard to fault. Giving plenty of feed back while the pedals in general are aptly spaced apart for heel and toe ballet.
 |
The ESP in the RS allows the driver to customise how much nannying he receives while driving. In the normal mode, the ESP steps in the moment it senses that the car is losing control. During my test drive, I had an unscheduled test of the ESP in its default mode on the morning I picked up the RS. Driving along Lornie Road in torrential rain, I was trailing a private ambulance when it spun out at 90kmh just before the flyover that splits off to Braddell Road.
Being just two car lengths in front of me, it left me with little choice but to swerve right to avoid running into it and then left again to avoid the road divider. Having tested cars with ESP off in similar conditions before, I knew that the car would've spun out if not for it. The fact that I managed to swerve around both obstacles without drama proves that the ESP worked perfectly.
In Sport ESP mode, the electronics will hang back and let the driver enjoy himself a little before stepping in. I tested the RS (in much less precarious driving conditions) on the Sepang Circuit with Sport ESP on. What I noticed is that the car's electronics intervene at a very progressive pace allowing the driver plenty of time to self-correct before it steps in. The ESP can be fully deactivated for more experienced drivers and track situations.
The RS also comes with different throttle mapping for varying driving conditions. Accessed through the RenaultSport Monitor, the driver can choose the amount of throttle sensitivity for any given situation.
Being just two car lengths in front of me, it left me with little choice but to swerve right to avoid running into it and then left again to avoid the road divider. Having tested cars with ESP off in similar conditions before, I knew that the car would've spun out if not for it. The fact that I managed to swerve around both obstacles without drama proves that the ESP worked perfectly.
In Sport ESP mode, the electronics will hang back and let the driver enjoy himself a little before stepping in. I tested the RS (in much less precarious driving conditions) on the Sepang Circuit with Sport ESP on. What I noticed is that the car's electronics intervene at a very progressive pace allowing the driver plenty of time to self-correct before it steps in. The ESP can be fully deactivated for more experienced drivers and track situations.
The RS also comes with different throttle mapping for varying driving conditions. Accessed through the RenaultSport Monitor, the driver can choose the amount of throttle sensitivity for any given situation.
Despite its performance, the RS manages to be civilised when not driven in anger. Pottering around town, the suspension remains comfortable without the jarring expected of a firm suspension setup. This comes as no surprise considering Renault engineers spent 7 months tuning the suspension alone. Nevertheless the RS feels awkward and lurches at low revs though it settles down once the revs climb above 2000rpm where the turbo starts to spool up.
Though other reports have remarked the RS's engine note to be about as inspiring as a blender, I for one think that it's just a hooligan's car missing its bark. This however is easily rectified with an aftermarket exhaust that will restore dignity to this capable hot hatch.
Conclusion
The Megane RS has matured to become the sort of car that keeps the driving enthusiast gleefully happy with its on track performance while at the same time gains acceptance from the missus with its pliant ride and refined interior. Even though the manual transmission might not be as readily accepted by some, driving enthusiasts like yours truly won't have it any other way.
In fact, the RS has me so smitten that I'm laying awake at night trying to find reasons to take it out again™
What do you think? Jot down your opinions at the comment box below.
Though other reports have remarked the RS's engine note to be about as inspiring as a blender, I for one think that it's just a hooligan's car missing its bark. This however is easily rectified with an aftermarket exhaust that will restore dignity to this capable hot hatch.
Conclusion
The Megane RS has matured to become the sort of car that keeps the driving enthusiast gleefully happy with its on track performance while at the same time gains acceptance from the missus with its pliant ride and refined interior. Even though the manual transmission might not be as readily accepted by some, driving enthusiasts like yours truly won't have it any other way.
In fact, the RS has me so smitten that I'm laying awake at night trying to find reasons to take it out again™
What do you think? Jot down your opinions at the comment box below.
The French have never really been known for making any particularly noteworthy supercars. Then again, as far as my memory serves me, France doesn't even have a supercar at all. I know the hardcore among you are gonna fault me by calling out, "Bugatti Veyron!" but it isn't all that French underneath is it?
While the western European state is short on supercars, it is however brimming with critically acclaimed hot hatches. The Renault 5 Turbo, Peugeot 205 GTI, Renault R26 and R27 have all been well received by journalists and car enthusiasts alike. And if you really want me to, the list goes on™
Exterior
The new heir to the RS throne is built upon the same body style as the 3rd generation Megane sport coupe. Unlike the donor car, the RS comes as a svelte looking three door as opposed to five in the regular coupe.
While the western European state is short on supercars, it is however brimming with critically acclaimed hot hatches. The Renault 5 Turbo, Peugeot 205 GTI, Renault R26 and R27 have all been well received by journalists and car enthusiasts alike. And if you really want me to, the list goes on™
Exterior
The new heir to the RS throne is built upon the same body style as the 3rd generation Megane sport coupe. Unlike the donor car, the RS comes as a svelte looking three door as opposed to five in the regular coupe.
|
In the front, the most obvious change comes from the lower bumper that has been completely replaced with a shiny piano black splitter and a front face that blends in with the headlights. The splitter's unique form parallels the front aerodynamic wing of a F1 car. This wing shape creates a certain amount of aerodynamic downforce at speed keeping the front wheels firmly planted on the bitumen.
|
It doesn't hurt that this wing shape together with the front fascia forms a sinister grin that you can greet your potential victims with. Bright LED daytime running lights are incorporated into both sides of the splitter as well for greater visibility to your victims. In the centre beyond the gaping black hole sits the turbo's intercooler.
From the side, you can fully appreciate the car's low ground hugging stance that adds to its 'fast even when standing still' impression. Fenders have been added to widen the RS's stance further. Trailing off the end of the roof is a discrete spoiler that gives the car an even sleeker profile. In the rear, the most prominent feature comes from the diffuser that houses the central exhaust encased in an elegantly shaped trapezoidal tailpipe.
While the brochure offers 19 inch alloys as an option, I would personally recommend sticking to the 18 inch satin black (matt black) rims as they play off the sporty exterior best.
From the side, you can fully appreciate the car's low ground hugging stance that adds to its 'fast even when standing still' impression. Fenders have been added to widen the RS's stance further. Trailing off the end of the roof is a discrete spoiler that gives the car an even sleeker profile. In the rear, the most prominent feature comes from the diffuser that houses the central exhaust encased in an elegantly shaped trapezoidal tailpipe.
While the brochure offers 19 inch alloys as an option, I would personally recommend sticking to the 18 inch satin black (matt black) rims as they play off the sporty exterior best.
An added bonus is that the black camouflages the inevitable brake dust, dirt and grime so well that no one will ever guess the dollops of fun you've been having.
Interior
The interior in the RS has definitely made a quantum leap over the R26 in terms of quality and fittings. While performance wasn't lacking in the older R26, complaints mainly came from the less than inspiring interior. In the RS though, things are looking sprightly. The interior, like in the Megane Coupe comes wrapped with lots of soft touch plastics that give solid tactile feedback.
To make the RS's interior really special, a pair of Recaro half-buckets keep both driver and passenger firmly in place when the driving gets furious. They even have slots for racing harnesses if you so choose. In the driving seat, the driver feels cocooned by all the control surfaces. The steering, pedals and gearshift are all within comfortable and easy reach. Begging for abuse.
Interior
The interior in the RS has definitely made a quantum leap over the R26 in terms of quality and fittings. While performance wasn't lacking in the older R26, complaints mainly came from the less than inspiring interior. In the RS though, things are looking sprightly. The interior, like in the Megane Coupe comes wrapped with lots of soft touch plastics that give solid tactile feedback.
To make the RS's interior really special, a pair of Recaro half-buckets keep both driver and passenger firmly in place when the driving gets furious. They even have slots for racing harnesses if you so choose. In the driving seat, the driver feels cocooned by all the control surfaces. The steering, pedals and gearshift are all within comfortable and easy reach. Begging for abuse.
|
The cabin is inhabited with plenty of racy bits to remind you that this is anything but your standard Megane. Yellow seat belts are another indication though some might not agree with them. On the dashboard, carbon fibre trim line the dash along with brushed aluminium on the gear knob and pedals to further underline its sporty aspirations. The dials on the instrument panel takes on a sporty appeal as well with the most important dial, the tachometer, highlighted in yellow like in a Ferrari.
While the centre console is identical to the one fitted in the Megane Coupe, the one presented here comes with a couple of party tricks. Depressing both buttons situated at the top of the control stalk on the steering column calls up the RenaultSport Monitor. Essentially the same telemetry system used in the Nissan GTR.
Scrolling through the pages calls up graphs for acceleration forces (both transverse and longitudinal), engine parameters in real time and temperatures for different systems. Renault was even kind enough to include a lap timer with memory function!
Even though the RS is a performance oriented model, some practicality remains. While getting into the rear seats might pose as a bit of a challenge for some, once in you find that the rear is spacious enough for two adults with plenty of legroom. Storage in the boot isn't too bad as well with 377 litres of space available and supplemented with split-folding rear seats.
While the centre console is identical to the one fitted in the Megane Coupe, the one presented here comes with a couple of party tricks. Depressing both buttons situated at the top of the control stalk on the steering column calls up the RenaultSport Monitor. Essentially the same telemetry system used in the Nissan GTR.
Scrolling through the pages calls up graphs for acceleration forces (both transverse and longitudinal), engine parameters in real time and temperatures for different systems. Renault was even kind enough to include a lap timer with memory function!
Even though the RS is a performance oriented model, some practicality remains. While getting into the rear seats might pose as a bit of a challenge for some, once in you find that the rear is spacious enough for two adults with plenty of legroom. Storage in the boot isn't too bad as well with 377 litres of space available and supplemented with split-folding rear seats.
The Drive
Power for this track attack machine is derived from the same 4-cylinder turbocharged unit in the R26. Though the engineers at RenaultSport Technologies developed the engine further to produce 20 more ponies and 30Nm more torque bringing total figures to 250bhp and 340Nm of torque. For those who find a semi-auto box uninspiring, the RS comes with a six-speed manual that'll keep hardcore motorheads (i.e. the author) happy. Swopping cogs in this box feels direct and precise but although the throw is shorter than normal, it's still not as short as say, a Type-R's. Acceleration off the line is 6.1 seconds to 100kmh. An 0.4 second improvement over the older R26.
The RS comes with a Cup chassis which means it rides on lower and harder springs, an enhanced steering rack, wider tyres and a LSD (Limited Slip Differential). What this all means is that the RS is right at home in the twisty bits. The harder springs ensure that the hatch stays flat around the bends. The tweaked steering gives excellent feedback and goes precisely where you point it. The mechanical LSD ensures that plenty of grip is available at corner exits while at the same time eliminating torque steer that was present in the previous R26. Braking power here is provided by Brembo with a four pot and slotted discs in the front and a two pot setup in the rear. The feel of the brake pedals too is hard to fault. Giving plenty of feed back while the pedals in general are aptly spaced apart for heel and toe ballet.
Power for this track attack machine is derived from the same 4-cylinder turbocharged unit in the R26. Though the engineers at RenaultSport Technologies developed the engine further to produce 20 more ponies and 30Nm more torque bringing total figures to 250bhp and 340Nm of torque. For those who find a semi-auto box uninspiring, the RS comes with a six-speed manual that'll keep hardcore motorheads (i.e. the author) happy. Swopping cogs in this box feels direct and precise but although the throw is shorter than normal, it's still not as short as say, a Type-R's. Acceleration off the line is 6.1 seconds to 100kmh. An 0.4 second improvement over the older R26.
The RS comes with a Cup chassis which means it rides on lower and harder springs, an enhanced steering rack, wider tyres and a LSD (Limited Slip Differential). What this all means is that the RS is right at home in the twisty bits. The harder springs ensure that the hatch stays flat around the bends. The tweaked steering gives excellent feedback and goes precisely where you point it. The mechanical LSD ensures that plenty of grip is available at corner exits while at the same time eliminating torque steer that was present in the previous R26. Braking power here is provided by Brembo with a four pot and slotted discs in the front and a two pot setup in the rear. The feel of the brake pedals too is hard to fault. Giving plenty of feed back while the pedals in general are aptly spaced apart for heel and toe ballet.
|
The ESP in the RS allows the driver to customise how much nannying he receives while driving. In the normal mode, the ESP steps in the moment it senses that the car is losing control. During my test drive, I had an unscheduled test of the ESP in its default mode on the morning I picked up the RS. Driving along Lornie Road in torrential rain, I was trailing a private ambulance when it spun out at 90kmh just before the flyover that splits off to Braddell Road.
Being just two car lengths in front of me, it left me with little choice but to swerve right to avoid running into it and then left again to avoid the road divider. Having tested cars with ESP off in similar conditions before, I knew that the car would've spun out if not for it. The fact that I managed to swerve around both obstacles without drama proves that the ESP worked perfectly.
In Sport ESP mode, the electronics will hang back and let the driver enjoy himself a little before stepping in. I tested the RS (in much less precarious driving conditions) on the Sepang Circuit with Sport ESP on. What I noticed is that the car's electronics intervene at a very progressive pace allowing the driver plenty of time to self-correct before it steps in. The ESP can be fully deactivated for more experienced drivers and track situations.
The RS also comes with different throttle mapping for varying driving conditions. Accessed through the RenaultSport Monitor, the driver can choose the amount of throttle sensitivity for any given situation.
Being just two car lengths in front of me, it left me with little choice but to swerve right to avoid running into it and then left again to avoid the road divider. Having tested cars with ESP off in similar conditions before, I knew that the car would've spun out if not for it. The fact that I managed to swerve around both obstacles without drama proves that the ESP worked perfectly.
In Sport ESP mode, the electronics will hang back and let the driver enjoy himself a little before stepping in. I tested the RS (in much less precarious driving conditions) on the Sepang Circuit with Sport ESP on. What I noticed is that the car's electronics intervene at a very progressive pace allowing the driver plenty of time to self-correct before it steps in. The ESP can be fully deactivated for more experienced drivers and track situations.
The RS also comes with different throttle mapping for varying driving conditions. Accessed through the RenaultSport Monitor, the driver can choose the amount of throttle sensitivity for any given situation.
Despite its performance, the RS manages to be civilised when not driven in anger. Pottering around town, the suspension remains comfortable without the jarring expected of a firm suspension setup. This comes as no surprise considering Renault engineers spent 7 months tuning the suspension alone. Nevertheless the RS feels awkward and lurches at low revs though it settles down once the revs climb above 2000rpm where the turbo starts to spool up.
Though other reports have remarked the RS's engine note to be about as inspiring as a blender, I for one think that it's just a hooligan's car missing its bark. This however is easily rectified with an aftermarket exhaust that will restore dignity to this capable hot hatch.
Conclusion
The Megane RS has matured to become the sort of car that keeps the driving enthusiast gleefully happy with its on track performance while at the same time gains acceptance from the missus with its pliant ride and refined interior. Even though the manual transmission might not be as readily accepted by some, driving enthusiasts like yours truly won't have it any other way.
In fact, the RS has me so smitten that I'm laying awake at night trying to find reasons to take it out again™
What do you think? Jot down your opinions at the comment box below.
Though other reports have remarked the RS's engine note to be about as inspiring as a blender, I for one think that it's just a hooligan's car missing its bark. This however is easily rectified with an aftermarket exhaust that will restore dignity to this capable hot hatch.
Conclusion
The Megane RS has matured to become the sort of car that keeps the driving enthusiast gleefully happy with its on track performance while at the same time gains acceptance from the missus with its pliant ride and refined interior. Even though the manual transmission might not be as readily accepted by some, driving enthusiasts like yours truly won't have it any other way.
In fact, the RS has me so smitten that I'm laying awake at night trying to find reasons to take it out again™
What do you think? Jot down your opinions at the comment box below.
Photos by Benjamin G, Kline
Also read our comparison article on:
Renault Megane RS 2.0T 250 (M) vs Opel Astra OPC 2.0 Turbo (M)
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Car Information
Renault Megane RS 2.0T 250 (M)
CAT B|Petrol|11.9km/L
Horsepower
186kW (250 bhp)
Torque
340 Nm
Acceleration
6.1sec (0-100km /hr)
This model is no longer being sold by local distributor
All Used Renault Megane RS
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