Renault teases extra hot Megane RS

Renault has teased a new, more hardcore version of its Megane Renaultsport coupe on its Facebook page, hinting that the French firm is developing an even more focused version of the sporty hatch to rival the SEAT Leon Cupra 280.

The picture appeared with the hastag “#Under8”, meaning the SEAT is a logical target. The Cupra 280 model recently set the front-wheel drive Nurburgring production car lap record with a time of 7 minutes 58.4 seconds.

On Bing: see pictures of the Renaul Megane RS

Find out how much a used Renault Megan RS costs on Auto Trader

“#Under8” more than likely refers to the latest Megane’s intended lap time, and the car will benefit from a few choice upgrades to try and achieve its target, bringing the lap record back to Renaultsport’s base in the process.

The picture above clearly shows a new Akrapovic exhaust system for more sound and hopefully more power, but it’s also thought the new Megane will benefit from trick Ohlins suspension dampers set up to work with special sticky Michelin tyres.

Renault’s drip-feeding of details has fanned the flames of a continued front-wheel drive hot hatchback battle, too.

After taking the record away from Renault, SEAT was the first to show its hand in the latest era of performance-focused family cars with its new DSG-equipped Cupra 280 model.

Joining the party in 2015 will be the new 280hp turbocharged Honda Civic Type R.

MSN Cars has already driven a working prototype and was extremely impressed with the performance – but then again, we love the effortless ease with which you can access the SEAT’s pace and the brawny old school flavour of the Megane, so turning that up to 11 is bound to be a hit.

Whatever the outcome, we’re sure this on-going scrap for front-wheel drive supremacy – around the Nurburgring or not – will deliver two more superb fast road front drivers to go with the SEAT.

It’s going to make on hell of a triple test.

On Bing: see pictures of the Renaul Megane RS

Find out how much a used Renault Megan RS costs on Auto Trader

Renault Megane Renaultsport 265 review (2012 onwards)

SEAT hints at new Nurburgring lap record

By motoringresearch.com