Renault Megane RS
The hot hatch segment just got a lot hotter with the all-new Renault Megane RS Lux. Since the first Renault Megane RS was released in 2003, the model has seen incredible upgrades in technology and performance. It has become somewhat of an icon around the world and now, the latest Megane RS Lux is within the grasp of South African motorists.
Renault’s third-generation RS is packed with sporting expertise and passionate design. It simply looks extraordinary and well worth a test drive but be prepared to have your socks blown off. The French automaker pushes the envelope with Formula 1 technology and a good price considering the full-house of features and incredible performance.
Renault Megane RS Lux Interior and Exterior
Renault has made the interior of the RS Lux as upmarket as they could with sports seats holding you firmly in place and low within the cabin. The leather steering wheel comes with a red stitch marking at the top which indicates dead centre with paddle shifters for the dual clutch gearbox. Carbon fiber weaves appear on the door panels adding a plush, soft touch to a very comfortable interior.
The dashboard is home to the R-Link 8.7-inch vertically mounted touchscreen with USB and Bluetooth connectivity as standard. There are four speakers with good sound quality and push-to-talk and audio streaming technology. Android Auto and Apple Carplay integrate with the RS monitor which is an app that logs performance data. R-Link 2 is a modern control interface that manages the vehicle’s various connectivity functions. This includes multimedia, integrated navigation, telephone, radio, Multi-Sense, 4Control and driving aids such as Parking Distance Control, Hill Start Assist and Cruise Control with Speed Limiter.
As far as the exterior goes, it looks stunning with many F1-inspired designs. The new Renault Megane RS Lux really makes its mark with a wider air intake and body while being lower to the ground on a choice of 18- or 19-inch alloys. The rear sees a functional Formula 1-inspired diffuser and a spoiler that provide genuine downforce according to Renault. It also shows off LED 3D Edge Light daytime running lights, extended rear arches and the new RS back signature.
At the front, the honeycomb grille with RS marking, extended front wheel arches with air grilles are the real stand out features. Daytime running lights with LED light guides and 3D effect make up the rest. Renault’s high-performance lighting (RS Vision) is unique in this segment which comes standard on the RS. The lights are designed like chequered flags and look incredible, integrated with the front bumper on either side of the F1-style blade.
Performance and Safety
The Renault Megane RS Lux is equipped with the EDC (dual-clutch) transmission, while the Megane Cup comes with a 6-speed manual taken straight from the previous model. Other variations include an electronic differential for the Lux and mechanical limited-slip diff (LSD) for the Cup, which is also fitted with red brake calipers.
Looking at the impressive specs, Renault’s 1.8 litre 16-valve, 4 Cylinder Turbo Direct Injection engine pushes out 205kW with peak torque of 390Nm. In fact, the new Renault Megane RS boasts one of the best torque ratings in its category. This engineering marvel results in a truly fast without sacrificing ride comfort. Standard performance for 0-100 kph is 5.0 seconds while it does a 1000 meter sprint in just 25.0 seconds.
The engine has a brand new cylinder head with a reinforced structure and more efficient cooling that results in exceptional performance. The design team consisted of the best motoring minds from Renault Sports Cars, Renault Sports Racing and the Renault Technocentre1.
In terms of safety, Renault has spared no expense and the Lux includes ABS, EBD, EBA, ESP, and ASR as standard. It comes with driver and passenger adaptive front airbags, pelvis/thorax side airbags for driver and front-seat passenger as well as front and rear curtain airbags. There are also ISOFIX child seat anchorage points on rear outer seats.
The new Renault Megane RS Lux is a well-balanced car with numerous new technology and safety features as standard. At R549 000, it offers more features, functionality, and performance compared to its closest rivals. Don’t take our word for it, book a test drive today and experience driving the way it was intended.
* Pricing is correct as of 14 November 2018
