By: IOL Motoring Staff
Paris - Renault Sport's Megane RS has been primed to take the front-wheel drive hot hatch fight to the next level, but this battle is about more than just straight-line speed.
The big deal about the new Megane RS 275 Trophy limited edition is that it will soon attempt to set a blistering Nurburgring lap time, perhaps even reclaiming the front-wheel drive record that the Seat Leon Cupra currently holds.
It will do this with the help of a slight power boost and various chassis modifications.
Renault Sport engineers tinkered with its already potent 2-litre turbopetrol engine to extract 202kW at 5500rpm, up from 195kW. Peak torque of 360Nm, is available from 3000 to 5000rpm.
Purpose-built to hit the trickiest of circuits, the 275 Trophy is fitted with Renault's Cup chassis, which comes with a limited slip differential.
The limited edition also offers buyers the option of a full suite of racy equipment supplied by renowned suppliers. There's an Akrapovic titanium exhaust system to tickle your ear drums with a “more raucous bark”, Öhlins adjustable Road & Track dampers with steel springs for that extra edge on the track and Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres, which were developed specifically for this car. You can then garnish your RS with a set of 19-inch black Speedline Turini rims.
For subtle distinction, the 275 Trophy includes a new livery with Trophy branding on the Platine Grey front blade and a chequered flag graphic at the bottom of the doors. The cabin has been kitted out with leather/Alcantara Recaro bucket seats as well as red stitching for the Alcantara steering wheel, hand brake, Zamac gearlever and seats.
Best of all, South Africa is one of the 20 countries in which the 275 Trophy will be sold, although the on-sale date and price has yet to be announced.