There is motoring fun to be had with the arrival of a new version of the track-sharp Renault Mégane RS300 Trophy equipped a more potent version of the 1,8-litre turbo engine.
Now offering 221 kW and 400 Nm or 420 Nm depending on whether the manual or auto box is specified, it also has a stiffer suspension with a Torsen mechanical limited slip differential.
On the exterior, the RS 300 Trophyhas exclusive side panel Trophy insignia, a distinctive Sport front bumper with F1 blade, a specific Rear Diffuser, an intelligent central exhaust pipe and unique Jerez Triple Tone 19-inch wheels.
Inside is an Alcantara steering wheel, Zamac Aluminium gear knob lever and racy red top-stitching on the upholstery. RS design and comfort comes with the Recaro Bucket seats, in Alcantara upholstery, which allow the driver’s position to be lowered by up to 20 mm. The position of the rigid bucket seat can be finely adjusted, while the Alcantara contributes to giving perfect support under driving conditions.
The technology within the cockpit includes a convenient portrait sized R-LINK 8,7-inch touchscreen, satellite navigation system with South African maps, Bluetooth, USB and AUX input. Additional features include Dual Zone climate control, cruise control with speed limiter, a Renault hands-free key card for keyless entry and automatic lights and wipers.
Finally, there is the RS Monitor V2 on-board tracking system keeping the driver informed of the engine performance, featuring remarkable Race Telemetry to monitor track timing statistics.
The RS 300 Trophy benefits from all the innovations within the Megane RS, such as the 4CONTROL four-wheel steering system, which enables a smaller turning radius, better stability and a quicker steering response.
The Cup chassis is standard and boasts stiffer suspension with a Torsen mechanical limited slip differential, allowing for better corning and traction. The front brakes are state of the art with bi-material discs for better endurance while the Brembo brake callipers guarantee optimum braking performance.
At 221 kW, the New RS Trophy incorporates technology coming directly from Formula 1 and the turbo-charger’s turbine is now mounted on a ceramic ball bearing for a shorter response time. The New Mégane RS 300 Trophy offers a choice between two transmissions – a 6-speed manual gearbox with an output of 400 Nm, and a 6-speed dual-clutch EDC gearbox offering 420 Nm.
The new intelligent exhaust valve system contributes to maximising engine performance. A valve system – actuated automatically depending on the driving mode selected via the Multi-Sense mode – offers a grandiose dual sound.
The valve position provides two exhaust tones, depending on the engine speed and load. When open, the load causes reduced flow resistance, enabling the gases to be routed along a more direct path, which allows the engine’s sporty and acoustic potential to be fully expressed.
The Mégane RS Trophy model range comes standard with a 5-year/ 90 000 km Service Plan, plus a 5-year/150 000 km mechanical warranty and a 6-year anti-corrosion warranty. Services take place at 10 000 km intervals.
RECOMMENDED RETAIL PRICING
– New Megane RS 300 Trophy Manual R774,900
– New Megane RS 300 Trophy EDC R799,900
