What's the news?
Renault Sport has revealed the next addition to the line-up of the Megane RS hot hatch, called the Trophy. It gets more performance, unique equipment and a more interesting exhaust note to set it apart.
Exterior
The most obvious change to the exterior that marks out the Megane RS Trophy is the addition of a bespoke set of 19-inch alloy wheels. The design, in a striking black and red finish, is called 'Jerez' and the rims wear high-performance Bridgestone Potenza S001 tyres. Next year, buyers will also have the option to upgrade to much-lighter wheels of the same size, called 'Fuji'. The only other exterior signifier is found up front on the 'F1-style blade', with a relatively subtle 'TROPHY' emblazoned on it.
Interior
Sadly, it costs extra to experience the biggest change to the interior, but we suspect most buyers of the Trophy will go for the optional new Recaro front seats. Not only are they trimmed in Alcantara, but they have more adjustment, allowing the driver to sit as much as 20mm lower than in the rest of the Megane RS range.
Mechanicals
First, the engine. It's essentially the same turbocharged 1.8-litre petrol unit as the rest of the line-up, though to comply with the latest legislation it has a particulate filter attached, which meant a recalibration was required. Renault Sport managed to up output at the same time, quoting up to 300hp (up from 280hp) and a useful 20Nm gain in torque to 420Nm (that's for the dual-clutch auto model - the manual makes do with 400Nm). Aiding responsiveness is a new bearing for the turbocharger, made from ceramic instead of steel, while the exhaust itself gets a two-mode valve in the rear silencer that can reduce back pressure and enhance the sound.
The Megane RS Trophy's chassis is based on that of the Cup model, so it features a Torsen mechanical limited slip differential, firmer dampers, firmer springs and stiffer anti-roll bars. It has 4Control four-wheel steering, too.
Anything else?
Last, but certainly not least, the Trophy's front brake discs are new bi-material items measuring 355mm in diameter. Apparently, they reduce 'unsprung' mass by a considerable 1.8kg per wheel, but they're also said to enhance heat dissipation, reducing the chance of brake fade when pushed to the limits on track.
First deliveries of the Trophy begin before the end of 2018, though Irish pricing for the Trophy has not been confirmed as yet.