Set to compete against the Honda Civic Type R, Ford Focus ST and Volkswagen Golf GTI, the next Megane RS will come solely in a five-door body style.
Based on the latest version of the compact hatchback, the upcoming Megane RS will have wider tracks, which will improve its grip, while helping it corner at more agile speeds will be the four-wheel steering, as Autocar reports.
Expected to significantly trim down on the current Megane RS 275 Cup’s 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) time of 5.8 seconds, the fourth generation model will push more than 300 HP to the front wheels from a 2.0-liter turbocharged four, through either a six-speed manual gearbox or a six-speed EDC dual-clutch automatic. The former is expected to be preferred by European customers, while the latter should be the top choice in Asian markets.
On the visual front, the upcoming Renault Megane RS is said to be influenced by the latest Clio RS and bring several aerodynamic improvements that will include new splitters, a larger rear diffuser and beefier side skirts.
The official reveal date is unknown and there is some controversy surrounding it, as while some claim that a 2017 Geneva Motor Show presence is likely, others state that the compact hot hatch will be introduced the year after. Nevertheless, once it will go official, rumor has it that it will tackle the front-wheel drive record around the Nurburgring, which is currently held by the new Volkswagen Golf GTI Clubsport S, with 7:49.29.
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