It’s not so much that it’s uncomfortable - which it often is - rather that it can seriously affect both the ultimate speed and driving satisfaction of the car. There are times when the R is unable to keep its driven wheels in contact with the tarmac, or is deflected off line. But it’s the bits in between - the B-roads and fast A roads where the unyielding aspect of the suspension starts to become a real problem. Similarly, go absolutely flat out - not something realistic on the public road with a car of this performance potential - and it does suddenly, quite beautifully, make sense. Oddly, at very low, urban speeds, the R deals with bumps and potholes reasonably well, and while you sometimes get rocked around in the seat, it’s hardly unbearable. Technical highlightsĪt the core of the R is a significant weight loss programme and also a comprehensive upgrading of its running gear which, taken to the extreme with options, includes carbon-ceramic brakes and even carbon wheels. Renaultsport deems the heavier dual clutch ‘EDC’ ‘box to be against the ethos of the car. Just one gearbox is available: the six-speed manual. These numbers seem merely adequate rather than extraordinary in 2019, but given the R weighs only 1,306kg, it’s no surprise that it rockets to 62mph from rest in just 5.4-secs and goes on to 163mph.
The 1.8-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine is unchanged from its specification in the regular Megane Trophy model, that is to say, 296bhp and 295lb ft of torque. Surely, though, a significantly lighter and much more aggressive development of the already feisty RS Trophy can bring that lustre back for a sub-brand that once encapsulated everything that was great about a hot hatch? Engine, transmission and 0-60 time Indeed, it was the disappointment of ecoty 2018. The largely unloved previous Clio 200 is long gone, and there’s no sign of a replacement, while the latest Megane has failed to really impress in spite of an appealing specification. It’s sad to say, but Renaultsport’s hot hatch crown has slipped of late.
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