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Renault Megane Renaultsport 250
Monday 26 October 2009
The all-new Megane range wouldn't be complete without a high performance version, and the new Renaultsport 250 is it.
With more than 21,000 units sold in some 30 countries since its 2004 launch, the Megane Renaultsport has been a resounding success. In addition to topping its class in France, it is one of the most competitive hot hatches around thanks to refinements that have been introduced over the years, including the availability of the even more efficient Cup chassis, as well as the release of the radically-lightened R26.R version. In response to customer demand, the new Megane Renaultsport 250 is available from launch with a choice of two chassis; the standard Sport chassis, for everyday driving thrills, or the Cup chassis, for even more exhilarating track-focused performance.
One of the car's major strengths is to be found underneath the bonnet in the form its new-generation, Euro5-compliant 2.0 16V turbocharged engine (F4Rt). This powerplant delivers peak power of 250hp at 5,500rpm and maximum torque of 340Nm at 3,000rpm, for a specific power output of 125hp/litre. The engine drives through a six-speed manual gearbox. Compared with the version of this gearbox mated to the standard Megane's TCe 180 engine, the ratios are taller with increased shift precision to give a sportier feel. It provides a 0-62mph time of 6.1 seconds and the 1,000-metre standing start covered in 25.7 seconds. Notwithstanding, the Renaultsport 250 returns excellent class-leading fuel economy for this level of power, with combined cycle fuel consumption of 33.6mpg, equivalent to CO2 emissions of 195g/km.
The Megane Renaultsport 250 features the same styling cues as the new Megane Coupe, but it also exudes a more overtly sporty feel due to several elements that take their inspiration from Formula 1. The wheelarches are extended to accommodate the impressive 18- or 19-inch wheels, the front bumper incorporates a wide air intake and a Formula 1-type aerodynamic blade, whilst the central exhaust tailpipe, diffuser and additional rear lip spoiler reaffirm the car's sporting credentials and contribute to the car's aerodynamic performance. And at the front, the bumper-mounted LED daytime running lights highlight the car's piercing gaze.
Renault has given the car a sporty stance, an impression reinforced by its striking launch colour, Sport Yellow. Special attention has been paid to quality, too, as illustrated by the design and finish of the optional 19-inch Speedline wheels which suggest a blend of refinement, advanced technology and speed. The exterior mirror housings, the aerodynamic blade incorporated in the front bumper and the rear diffuser are all picked out in gloss black.
The cabin carries over the sporty exterior styling, and features a dark charcoal trim which contrasts with the Sport Yellow rev-counter background and steering wheel stitching. The Renault i.d. Yellow Interior Pack brings further touches of colour in the form of the seatbelts and two-tone grey and yellow upholstery, as well as the door-panel and gear lever knob stitching.
The driving position is unmistakably sporty, but perfectly comfortable. The front seats feature additional lateral support, while the driver's seat is fully adjustable (fore/aft adjustment = 240mm, height adjustment = 70mm), including adjustable lumbar support. The optional heated leather seats come with an electric settings-memory function on the driver's side. Those owners who enjoy putting their vehicle through its paces round a circuit will appreciate the optional cloth- or leather-upholstered Recaro seats.
Despite the sporting credentials, interior fitments are numerous and include automatic dual-zone climate control with three modes (Soft/Auto/Fast),
hands-free card with automatic door locking as the card-holder walks away from the vehicle and the 3D Sound by Arkamys audio system, with standard RCA connection or optional TunePoint connectivity (USB, jack).
The Megane Renaultsport 250 range is available to order from 1st November with first deliveries arriving in the UK in January. Expect to pay £21,995 on the road for the Cup version, whilst the Megane Renaultsport 250 will set you back £22,995.
