Renault have released pictures and specs of the new RenaultSport Megane 275, ahead of its scheduled debut at the legendary Goodwood festival of speed this summer. The eagerly anticipated special edition of this hot hatch comes with a host of performance improvements over the original RenaultSport Megane. This is Renault’s answer to the growing competition in the performance small car market, with the likes of the upcoming Honda Civic Type-R and stylish Fiat Abarth to compete with.
The 2.0 litre, turbocharged engine from the standard edition has received some extra attention, squeezing out an extra 10 bhp. This has been achieved through the use of a special titanium performance exhaust system which saves a significant amount of weight – while boosting performance. The Megane 275 Trophy edition now produces 271 bhp and 266 lb/ft of torque – that’s a lot in a front-wheel drive city car!
Renault teased the press with images of the car featuring the caption “under 8”, hinting that Renault are going to make an attempt on the 8 minute record for front-wheel drive cars at the legendary Nurburgring race track. The record is currently held by the super-quick Seat Leon Cupra edition which lapped the German track in just 7 minutes and 58 seconds. We have no doubt the ferocious Megan 275 will have Seat fans beginning to break a sweat.
Other changes to the Megane 275 include an upgraded suspension system and racing-ready tyres. The Öhlins performance suspension system is fully adjustable, allowing the driver to switch between road and track set-ups. It’s clear from this that Renault is targeting the Megane 275 at motorheads and track-day enthusiasts. The Renault’s screaming power is transferred to the road via four very sticky Michelin Pilot Sport Cup tyres – the same ones used by Porsche. The tyres are wrapped around special edition 19-inch alloy wheels. Avoid sharp objects – that puncture would be one very expensive repair!
The Megane 275 will be limited to a short production run and will feature a special edition interior and paintwork. Images released from Renault show interior changes including leather Recaro racing bucket seats and contrasting black fabric with red stitching. On the outside, contrasting racing stripes feature on the paintwork, along with custom ‘Trophy 275’ badges.
Fancy getting your hands on the new Megane 275? Further details will be announced in June and the car is expected to go on sale in Autumn – at a starting price just shy of £30,000. The Car Loan Warehouse are specialists in Renault finance and can help secure you the best car finance deal. Got another car in mind? Try out our instant car loan calculator to see how much you could save.
