With the pandemic situation easing off (and hopefully headed that way), many new models are now making their debut in the Malaysian market and at TC Euro Cars, the Renault Megane R.S. 300 Trophy hot hatch is now in the showrooms.
This is the facelifted successor to the car that set a new record for the fastest front-wheel drive car around the Nurburgring circuit in 2019. Priced at RM326,476.61 (excluding insurance and with 50% of sales tax exempted until June 30, 2021), the latest Megane R.S. features cosmetic changes such as new full LED lighting units (with high-performance R.S. Vision) front and rear, a honeycomb radiator grille which incorporates R.S. double diamond logo, and 19-inch Jerez wheels featuring a diamond-cut finish with red borders.
The R.S. version can also be identified by the red Brembo brake calipers, wing-mounted air extractors, which optimise airflow through the wheelarches, rear bumper with a built-in diffuser and the iconic central exhaust, and the narrow roof spoiler. Inside, there’s exclusive R.S. upholstery, high-end materials, sophisticated finishes and distinctive details representative of the Renault Sport identity
Upgraded powerplant
The powerful 1.8-litre 4-cylinder engine has also been upgraded and with turbocharging and direct injection, now produces up to 300 ps/420 Nm. This impressive output passes through a 6-speed EDC transmission on the way to the front wheels and the driver can make gear selection via paddle shifters at the steering wheel if preferred.
4-mode R.S. Drive and 4CONTROL
The shifting characteristics can be varied to suit driving conditions using the R.S. Drive mode which has four modes. There’s also Launch Control for a positive start using maximum output, and enable the car to get from standstill to 100 km/h within a claim 5.7 seconds.
The R.S. models are developed with the assistance of Renault Sport, an experience organisation which has been involved in F1 and other high-level motorsports. As such, its chassis in particular benefits from motorsport experience and in the case of the Megane R.S. 300 TROPHY, the Cup chassis features a Torsen mechanical Limited Slip Differential. For the 2021 model, there is new calibration which enables more precise entry to corners and improved traction when exiting corners.
The car also comes with 4CONTROL, a 4-wheel steering system that enhances agility through tight turns and improves cornering stability at higher speeds. While skilled drivers may not always like electronic aids, such systems allow less skilled drivers to explore the very high limits of cars like the Megane R.S. with more safety.
While the 4CONTROL 4-wheel steering ensures that the turning circle is not compromised by the differential, the use of bi-material brake discs shaves off 1.8 kgs of unsprung mass in each corner, making for razor sharp high-speed manoeuvring. In addition, rally-inspired technology is evident with the installation of 4 hydraulic compression stops on all shock absorbers. These maintain the car’s poise on bumpy roads and optimise tyre-ground contact for better grip.
The new Megane R.S 300 Trophy comes with a 3-year/100,000 km warranty (whichever comes first). Customers have a choice of 5 colours options, with the signature Liquid Yellow and Orange Tonic costing an extra RM9,000. Besides purchasing with a Hire-Purchase loan, customers can op[t for TCEC’s Subscription plan with 1-year to 3-year terms.
