Renault Megane RS Trophy: Prices and specs announced for 296bhp hot hatch

Prices for the Renault Mégane RS Trophy have been announced, starting at £31,810 for the entry-level six-speed manual variant. 

For £33,510, the range-topping hot hatch is available with a six-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox. The Cup chassis, optional on the Mégane RS, comes fitted as standard on the Trophy, comprising a Torsen mechanical limited-slip differential, 25% firmer shock absorbers, 30% firmer springs and 10% stiffer anti-roll bars.

Further standard kit includes unique lightweight 19in alloy wheels, Trophy stripes on the front bumper and an active exhaust system. 

Both the engine and chassis of the Mégane RS Trophy have received extensive attention, helping it to earn the title of the most potent series-production car to be produced by Renault’s performance arm.

Using a ramped-up version of the Mégane RS’s turbocharged 1.8-litre engine with a new exhaust system, the Trophy produces up to 296bhp and 310lb ft of torque. Those are gains of 20bhp and 22lb ft, and while it’s still 20bhp short of the Honda Civic Type R, the Trophy has a healthy 15lb ft advantage.

The uprated four-cylinder is now also more responsive and eager to rev, owing to the use of new turbocharger hardware that’s inspired by Renault Sport’s Formula 1 engine. The turbine, which rotates at almost 200,000rpm, is now mounted on a ceramic ball bearing, saving weight and reducing friction by a third. This responsiveness is maximised when the new exhaust system bypasses a silencer with a mechanical valve.

Renault Sport says the extra urgency of the powertrain essentially offsets a loss in power caused by increased back pressure, which has come thanks to the fitment of a new particulate filter, encouraged by the introduction of the WLTP emissions regulations. The powertrain therefore complies with the latest Euro 6d-Temp regulations.

The dual-clutch automatic gearbox enables the maximum torque figure, but the six-speed manual requires a reduction in peak torque to bring it down to 295lb ft. That's still a 7lb ft improvement over the standard Mégane RS, however.