Aimed directly at the Volkswagen Golf GTI and Honda Civic Type R, the prototype RS Trophy seemingly appears no different from the standard model, with the publication reporting that most of the changes will take place underneath the skin.
These will include the Cup chassis fitted as standard, a limited slip differential and 19-inch alloy wheels with Autocar reporting that the wheel hubs will be made from aluminium to reduce unsprung weight. While the model snapped at the ‘Ring was devoid of inner door trim and boasted racing seats, the production Trophy will more than likely feature a similar if slightly tweaked adaption of the standard RS’ interior.
Where the Trophy will differ from the RS is underneath the bonnet, where the 1.8-litre turbocharged engine will undergo revisions to produce 300 pferdestarkes (PS) or 221kW, with torque rated at 400Nm.
According to the publication, Renault has already stated that the Trophy will gun for the fastest front-wheel drive record around the ‘Ring, currently held by the Type R at seven min 43.8 seconds. As with the RS, the Trophy will offer the option of a six-speed manual or seven-speed EDC gearbox.
While unconfirmed, reports suggest that the Trophy will make its world unveiling at the Paris Motor Show in October, with sales kicking-off towards the end of the year.
