We also hope the RS uses an engine and transmission other than the 1.6-litre four-pot and 7-speed EDC dual-clutch, which remain weak links just as they are in the Clio. Renault was non-committal on whether future Megane RS models would use four-wheel steering we’re hoping they resist the temptation. Both models are refined and ride well too, though the GT is naturally a little firmer.
RENAULT MEGANE PRICING FULL
It also helped demonstrate that there’s a fundamentally sound chassis beneath the new Megane, responsive and nicely balanced, albeit one yet to demonstrate its full potential. The diesel, without 4control, was actually the more satisfying drive – it had more consistent behaviour and more natural steering responses despite lacking the outright grip and agility of the GT. No doubt it might make for an amazingly nimble Renaultsport Megane, but some of that playful nature found in the last car could easily be lost.
Indeed, the agility is undoubtedly there, but it doesn't feel like it adds much to the overall driving experience, particularly with the GT. The steering is also a little too light for our tastes, even as cornering loads build. Go quicker and the active rear axle makes the Megane feel edgy, without really risking any unexpected tail-out moments. However, as is sometimes the case with four-wheel steering systems, the car feels at its best at a modest pace. We drove the GT first, and while traffic prevented any real assessment of the car’s capabilities, the 4control system does indeed make the car feel unusually agile at lower speeds. There are no plans for a three-door – Renault says most customers have moved on from coupes to crossovers. It should also be noted that like the current Clio, the Megane is five-door only, until estate and saloon versions arrive depending on market. Other innovations in GT Nav trim include a launch control mode and Multi-Change Down, a system that automatically changes down to the lowest suitable gear if you hold the EDC dual-clutch auto's paddle while braking. With passive dampers, there’s no effect on the ride. Above 50mph (or 37mph), the rear wheels point slightly in the same direction, improving stability at speed.Īt its most aggressive, Renault says it reduces steering inputs by 40 per cent, while Sport mode also sharpens the throttle response and gearshift mapping. The system uses electronic actuation to point the rear wheels in the opposite direction to the front wheels below 50mph in Sport mode (37mph in other modes), enhancing agility. It’s back again in the Megane GT, badged ‘4control’.
Renault has dabbled with four-wheel steering in previous cars, most notably the Laguna and Laguna Coupe now absent from UK shores. Maximum power is 128bhp at 4000rpm (there’s a 163bhp model also available in GT trim, dual-clutch only) and 236lb ft of torque at 1750rpm.
RENAULT MEGANE PRICING MANUAL
The diesel we tested also displaces 1.6 litres and drives the front wheels through a six-speed manual gearbox. Maximum torque of 207lb ft is developed at 2400rpm, though Renault proudly displayed graphs showing the majority of this peak is available virtually throughout the rev range. This model shares its 1.6-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine with the Clio RS, and indeed its seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, though power output is down at 202bhp at 6000rpm. Engine, transmission and 0-60mph timeĪ wide variety of turbocharged petrol and diesel engines make up the latest Megane range, from ultra-frugal, 86g/km versions to a sub-Renaultsport warm hatch, the GT. That also means there’s a lot at stake: few would disagree that the latest Renaultsport Clio is no longer the firecracker it once was, and Renault fans will be hoping the latest Megane doesn’t further dilute the RS legend. There are many reasons we’re interested in the latest generation Megane, not least because the last two generations have gifted us two of the most engaging, involving and plain fastest hot hatchbacks ever created, in the form of the Renaultsport R26.R and Trophy-R. This is the fourth generation of Renault’s popular Megane range, tested here in petrol GT form and as a 128bhp, 1.6-litre diesel.
0 kommentar(er)
