After the launch of the first Mégane R.S. Trophy in 2005, Renault has carved a niche in the hot hatch segment for themselves with a customer base of enthusiasts that demand only the best in chassis handling dynamics and engine technology. The latest Renault Mégane R.S. 300 Trophy promises to hold that flag high with the most power ever presented in a production Mégane.
Related: Renault Mégane R.S. Cup (2020) review: How the French lost the war.
Engine
With years of Formula 1 research and development at their disposal, Renault has managed to extract a very impressive 221 kW from a mere 1.8-litre, 4-cylinder engine. This gives the R.S. 300 its catchy name with 221 kW translating into 300 hp.
This power output is largely thanks to the twin-scroll, ceramic ball-bearing turbocharger utilized in this application that helps the R.S. 300 Trophy produce 221 kW at 6 000 RPM with either 400- or 420 Nm of torque on hand from 2 400 to 4 500 RPM. This direct-injection 1.8-litre turbocharged petrol engine is mated to either a 6-speed manual or 6-speed dual-clutch EDC gearbox. EDC vehicles will get 420 Nm while the manual versions will get 400 Nm.
The power is transferred to the front wheels via a mechanical, 2-way Torsen limited-slip differential that allows for the best possible application of power when exiting a corner and the most poise when entering. Renault claims that this setup makes the R.S. 300 Trophy good for a 5.7-second 0 to 100 km/h sprint time in either manual of EDC format, with a top speed of a limited 260 km/h.
Fuel consumption is listed at 8.2- and 8.4 l/100km for the manual and EDC respectively, although I doubt many will be looking at the R.S. 300 if fuel consumption is of a major concern.
Chassis
It wouldn't be an R.S. product if it wasn't capable of tearing your face off mid-corner. The R.S. 300 Trophy is fitted with a Cup chassis that allows for impeccable control and grip levels. Much of its prowess can be attributed to the fine-tuning and development on the chassis that sees the shock absorbers being 25% stiffer, the springs 30% stiffer and the anti-roll bars 10% stiffer. While this may sound like a recipe for a bone-shaking ride, the implementation of hydraulic compression stops introduces some civility to proceedings without sacrificing cornering performance.
Bi-material brake discs shave off 1.8 kg of unsprung mass in each corner while 4CONTROL 4-wheel steering ensures that the turning circle is not compromised by the differential and that high-speed manoeuvring is pin-sharp.
Styling
To help differentiate the R.S. 300 Trophy from the other Mégane IV R.S. models (namely 280 Lux and 280 Cup), the Trophy gets its own set of bespoke, tri-tone 19-inch alloys wheels and dedicated Trophy branding along the flanks. The F1-inspired front and rear diffusers remain in a contrasting silver finish.
The interior of the R.S. 300 Trophy receives a Zamac aluminium gearknob, an Alcantara trimmed steering wheel and Recaro sports, bucket seats with matching Alcantara trim and contrast stitching. These seats have been fitted to allow the driver to sit 20 mm lower than in other R.S. offerings, allowing for a lower centre of gravity to be created as well as to more accurately translate chassis movement to the driver.
The 8.7-inch, portrait-orientated R-Link infotainment system includes R.S. Monitor V2 that will allow for a display of vehicle settings and performance readouts. Several drive modes allow for control and behaviour parameters to be changed according to the driving situation. This sees the vehicle adjust the throttle response, steering weight, suspension stiffness and exhaust tone according to the selected mode. This system still features inputs for USB, Bluetooth and AUX and is Apple CarPlay and Android Auto equipped.
An active exhaust features an actuated valve in the exhaust to either tone things down or open the throat of the Mégane R.S. Trophy for improved sound and performance. This is active in Sport mode and held open in Race mode.
EDC models feature launch control and multi-gear downshifts.
Pricing and Availability
While we have yet had an opportunity to sample the new R.S. 300 Trophy, we believe that it will be worth every cent of its rather staunch price tag. With the highest specific power output of any of its direct rivals, the Megane is sure to be a hot-ticket item. The only catch is that you may not be able to buy one.
Renault SA has only managed to secure only 7 units, 4 EDC and 3 manual versions with more units unlikely to make their way to South Africa in the future. Thus, exclusivity ranks rather high.
| Renault Mégane R.S. 300 Trophy | R 774 900 |
| Renault Mégane R.S. 300 Trophy EDC | R 799 900 |
The Renault Mégane R.S. Trophy model range comes standard with a 5-year / 90 000km Service Plan, plus a 5-year / 150 000km mechanical warranty and a 6-year anti-corrosion warranty. Services take place at10 000km intervals.
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