Friday 26th May 2017

New Renault Sport Megane details

It will have a dual-clutch transmission! But only as an option, don't worry...

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Those of you with a fond memory for such things will know that Renault has a bit of form when it comes to using the Monaco Gran Prix to showcase its upcoming cars. The Twin'Run concept was first seen there back in 2013, and the Clio R.S.16 was wheeled out for the Monegasque crowds last year.

The guessing game continues!

Though that pair were two that did not make production (the roadgoing Twingo doesn't count when the Twin'Run had 320hp), this latest Renault Sport Grand Prix grand unveil most certainly will - it's the latest Renault Sport Megane. Well, it sort of is.

See only the disguised prototype will circulate on Monte Carlo's city streets, rather than a full version. It will be driven by Nico Hulkenberg, who can also be seen in these earlier testing photos. All well and good for those attending the F1 - or watching from their yacht - but what about those back at home? What's the latest on this very, very important hot hatch?

Not much, to be honest, with plenty of blanks to be filled in at a Frankfurt show reveal. Or hopefully a little before. What has been released for now is the option of an EDC (Efficient Dual Clutch) transmission, as used in the Clio; however, unlike that car, a manual will also be available. We're guessing the automatic will be optional, but who knows...

One manual and one auto, right Nico?

And, er, that's your lot really. There are promises of "the new compact sports car benchmark" from Patrice Ratti and Hulkenberg praising the "excellence" of its chassis, but few firm details. From the photos we see, well, not a lot more than before. There's a red band at 12 o'clock on the steering wheel, five doors for certain and what seems to be a fairly modest styling overhaul that's quite typical of Renault Sport - certainly there aren't any Civic Type R-style spoilers to see here.

Following that Frankfurt debut - it will be on 12th September, so get it in your diary - sales are expected to begin early next year. Will the Renault Sport Megane be on your hot hatch shortlist? What would it need to get on there? Over to you!

[MrBarry123]

I really like this for two reasons: 1) swollen arches and 2) they've done something interesting with the DRLs.

Looks good so far!

[MikeGoodwin]

I really hope it doesn't stray too far from the 275, they have the chassis, steering etc spot on with that car, its old school really but doesnt need changing atall. Really have high hopes for this car. Im sold on its looks (so far), powers isn't important but handling and steering is and I am worried they will try to aim for a larger market like the did with the Clio RS 200T.

[HTP99]

4WS no doubt like the GT.

[framerateuk]

MikeGoodwin said:

I really hope it doesn't stray too far from the 275, they have the chassis, steering etc spot on with that car, its old school really but doesnt need changing atall. Really have high hopes for this car. Im sold on its looks (so far), powers isn't important but handling and steering is and I am worried they will try to aim for a larger market like the did with the Clio RS 200T.

Handling is spot on with the Clio RS220 - I wouldn't worry about that at all, Renault know their stuff.

Having gone from the Megane 250 to a Clio 220, there are 2 things I miss, firstly, the huge slug of torque that you got from the old 2.0 engine. If they've opted for a 1.8 version of the Clio engine, I hope they've made it torquey enough.

Secondly, I'm glad they've given the option of manual or auto, not because I want one, but because I'm fed up of hearing people who haven't driven one moaning about the gearbox! It's great and if I decided to go for this Megane I really would be torn over which box to order with the car.

Edited by framerateuk on Friday 26th May 16:19

[MikeGoodwin]

framerateuk said:

Handling is spot on with the Clio RS220 - I wouldn't worry about that at all, Renault know their stuff.

Having gone from the Megane 250 to a Clio 220, there are 2 things I miss, firstly, the huge slug of torque that you got from the old 2.0 engine. If they've opted for a 1.8 version of the Clio engine, I hope they've made it torquey enough.

Secondly, I'm glad they've given the option of manual or auto, not because I want one, but because I'm fed up of hearing people who haven't driven one moaning about the gearbox! It's great and if I decided to go for this Megane I really would be torn over which box to order with the car.

Edited by framerateuk on Friday 26th May 16:19

I dont doubt itll handle well mate, itll be a great car but theres a certain character about the megane 275 that made it so great. Thought it was confirmed it was getting a new 2 litre unit?

I too would be torn on which box to go for. Ive not been in one but it sounds like that gearbox in the trophy is spot on now.

Just concerned itll end up like the golf r, an 8/10ths car which is a little disappointing when really in those last few revs and on the edge. Dont dispute the golf is more capable, but thats its problem.

[Kenny Powers]

Why would I buy one knowing very well that there will be a a dozen iterations and special editions that make the first attempt seem pretty poor, not to mention worthless?

[aaron_2000]

If they can make it handle like the previous models then I reckon this will be the best of the bunch. I like the option of either auto or manual, should allow them to sell to a wider crowd. Look forward to an RenaultSport Cup xD

[Alex_225]

I'm glad to hear that they're offering this with a manual. The Clio 200 probably sold better in other markets because of the dual clutch auto but us brits like manual hot hatches!

As mentioned the running lights look cool and it seems quite a sharp looking thing, from what you can tell.

I haven't bought a new RenaultSport since 2010 but this latest Megane has drawn my attention more than the 250/275 did.

[Mike1990]

Nice to hear a Manual being offered. They just need to keep to the same basic formula that made the previous fast Renaultsport Meganes so so good and they'll be on to a winner again.

[koalmeth]

I love the design . It's not commun .

[culpz]

I'm a bit annoyed with this article really as we basically know almost no more than we did previously. I think manufacturers need to be careful with using too many teasers on such cars. There is always a chance that the final product turns anti-climactic.

A manual gearbox now being offered is a great thing. Clearly Renault have been kicking themselves for not giving customers the choice on the new Clio, despite being given a chance to rectify this via the updated Trophy model. I think most other quibbles could have been forgotten.

For the record, i don't think this new Megane will be an anti-climax at all. It looks great and it also appears to be easing current owners and enthusiasts that the Megane will not become what the Clio now represents and will be a continuation of a great car.

Something interesting that i have actually noticed is that the first picture at the top of the Meg looks very similar to the current Clio 200/220 from it's side profile. It does have bulged-out side arches that would definitely made the Clio look more bespoke though.

[nickfrog]

Quite a nice face, even the car.