The Renault Megane R.S. is already something of a performance beast, but the French firm has taken it a step further with this more focused version — the Trophy.
So, what makes it special? Let’s start with the sheer numbers. The 1.8-litre turbocharged engine here produces 296bhp and 420Nm of torque — up from 276bhp and 390Nm that the standard car boasts. It can be paired up with either a six-speed manual gearbox or six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, and the result of all this power is 0-60mph in 5.5 seconds, with a top speed of 162mph.
Inside the car, Recaro bucket seats now feature on the options list, which are trimmed in Alcantara and sit 20mm lower than previously.
New Mégane R.S. Trophy has new ceramic bearing for the turbo. Spinning at close to200,000rpm reducing friction by a 1/3, reducing spool time and giving faster responses. 0-62mph is achieved in 5.7s https://t.co/1MXsxzJWpr#MeganeRSTrophy #RSspirit #RenaultSport pic.twitter.com/KvndWTVlh1
— Groupe Renault UK PR (@RenaultUKPR) July 19, 2018
There’s little in the way of external visual indication that this is a Trophy, aside from stripes added to the F1-inspired front splitter. Although you’ll be able to hear the difference, thanks to an upgraded exhaust system that features a mechanical valve — allowing the car to be set sociably quiet or arrogantly loud.
Fans of Renault’s hot hatches will be familiar with the Trophy moniker, which has been applied to the most potent version of each Renaultsport-fettled Megane since the first was introduced in 2004.
