The new Megane R.S. 300 Trophy is the ultimate fusion of exceptional design and heart-racing performance. The previous Trophy versions are renowned for their thoroughbred efficiency combining performance and accuracy, and the newest Renault Megane R.S. 300 Trophy certainly lives up to this legacy.
Those with the ‘need for speed’ can look forward to an all-round performance car that combines everyday driveability with even sharper on-track performance. The phenomenal Megane R.S.Trophy model is now 15 years old, with the first edition having launched in 2005, only nine months after the release of the first Megane II R.S.
Good looking and sporty
The Megane R.S. 300 Trophy has undeniably good looks and offers a multitude of enhanced Renault Sport features with a very sportier exclusive design.
Let me explain this... On the exterior, the R.S. 300 Trophy boasts 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. Renault has enjoyed relative success in Formula One so it’s no surprise that they bring an element of F1 with the front ‘bumper blade’.
The interior presents another step into the R.S. world with its signature Recaro seats, finished in Alcantara, with racy red top-stitching on the upholstery. Other R.S. specific design cues within the cockpit include the Alcantara steering wheel, the Zamac Aluminium gear lever knob, and handbrake gaiter.
What about the performance?
At 300hp, the new R.S. Trophy redefines performance. With technology coming directly from Formula 1, the turbocharger’s turbine is now mounted on a ceramic ball bearing for shorter response time.
The Megane R.S. 300 Trophy offers a choice between two transmissions: a 6-speed manual gearbox with an output of 400Nm, and a 6-speed dual-clutch EDC gearbox, exuding 420Nm.
The R.S. 300 Trophy is offered with the choice of a manual or dual-clutch EDC gearbox, and equipped with a more powerful version of the 1.8 litre turbo engine, the output is intensified to 300hp (221kW) thanks to superior upgrades to the turbo i.e. its ceramic ball bearing turbo and intelligent exhaust pipe with dual sound valve system. The R.S. driving experience is further enhanced through advanced and engaging technology such as the R.S. Monitor and Race Mode, for an “augmented” driving experience. Bi-material brakes with Red Brembo callipers not only add to the overall aesthetics but also allow for guaranteed optimum braking performance. The R.S. Trophy also boasts upper segment features like 4CONTROL technology. This four-wheel steering system delivers outstanding agility through tight turns and impressive cornering stability at higher speeds.
Intelligent tech
Intelligent technology comes standard. An interactive Renault Multimedia System including an 8.7-inch touchscreen, satellite navigation system with SA maps, Bluetooth, USB and AUX input will keep you entertained and on the right track. Includes smartphone replication i.e. Apple Car Play & Android Auto. The multitude of equipment onboard include features such as Dual Zone Climate Control, cruise control with speed limiter, Renault hands-free card, and automatic lights and wipers, so driving comfort and safety come standard too.
Styled to impress
The distinct design of the Megane R.S. 300 Trophy is further accentuated by its sporty side panel Trophy insignia, F1-style splitter and rear diffuser, while the Jerez Triple Tone 19-inch wheels with bold red styling give the Trophy an imposing stance.
Stepping into the cabin one is encountered with a definite nod to the motorsport world, with many elegant yet sporty touches, the Alcantara steering wheel, the Zamac Aluminium gear knob lever, the handbrake gaiter and the racy red top-stitching on the upholstery. The pinnacle of R.S. design and comfort has to be the Recaro Bucket seats, in Alcantara upholstery, which allow the driver’s position to be lowered by up to 20mm. The position of the rigid bucket seat can be finely adjusted, while the Alcantara contributes to giving perfect support under driving conditions.
Asking price?
The reecommended retail pricing:
To facilitate peace-of-mind driving, the new Megane R.S. Trophy model range comes standard with a 5-year/90,000km Service Plan, plus a 5-year/150,000km mechanical warranty and a 6-year anti-corrosion warranty. Services take place at 10,000km intervals.
Final thoughts
The new Megane R.S. 300 Trophy certainly doesn’t disappoint, proudly upholding the R.S. legacy. Drawing upon decades of Renault’s Formula 1 expertise and racing innovation, Renault Sport has yet again created perfection. Sports car enthusiasts can look forward to even greater performance and a sportier design as the new Renault Megane R.S. 300 Trophy boosts the Renault Sport line-up by extending the family of Trophy versions deployed since the first generation of Mégane R.S. The vehicle is instantly recognisable by its extraordinary 19-inch triple tone alloy wheels. Its Bridgestone Potenza S001 tyres are geared for exceptional grip and responsiveness. I predict that the seven available units will be snapped up very quickly although being a tad pricey.
