New grille, bumper, lights?
The Renault Megane RS 265 LUX has just arrived in South Africa, slotting in above the brilliant Megane GT. There’s a change to the grille which Renault say makes the logo more distinctive, the F1 splitter design is once again prominent, LED headlights sharpen the front end and the rear comprises of the centre mounted exhaust. Essentially, tepid changes but that’s not a negative because the Megane has powerful looks ingrained in its design. Some subtle tweaking with 18-inch grey alloys maintains that appeal.
What’s significant?
The return of the turbo 195kW/360Nm 2.0-litre engine after recent downsizing attempts. Navigation, Bluetooth, keyless entry and start, USB and cruise control are standard items on the Megane RS 265 LUX. Bucket seats are electrically operated with heated function. Limited slip differential remains the preserve of the Cup chassis and Renault still can’t offer an automatic option.
To allow owners extract the maximum from the car, Renault include an Advanced Driver Training Course.
Early verdict?
Pricing of R389 900 is bang on target considering there’s only a glass roof and parking assist to spend more on. However not much has changed and we’re still begging for a Megane RS 265 LUX in 5-door trim with the full beans of 195kW/360Nm and a chassis that’s as forgiving as the GT Line’s. Then we will have the most complete version of the Megane on our hands, until a dual-clutch version arrives.’s