The first Megane model to don the Trophy moniker since the limited run Trophy-R three years ago, the most hard-core version of the current fourth-generation model differs very little from the standard RS aesthetically, with the key additions being new diamond cut 19-inch Jerez alloy wheels with a red outline and wrapped in Bridgestone Potenza S001 rubber, Trophy badging on the front splitter and the option of Renault’s distinctive Liquid Yellow paint finish.
Arriving next year, the Trophy will also come with 19-inch Fuji lightweight alloys wrapped in Bridgestone Potenza S007 tyres as an option, which Renault claims reduces weight by some two kilograms per wheel in addition to providing “increased cornering grip and greater durability for sports driving”.
Inside, the Trophy’s subtle tweaks are highlighted by optional Alcantara covered Recaro sports seats, which are derived from those fitted to the previous Trophy, and have been dropped by 20mm to provide a sportier feel. Equipment levels are otherwise unchanged from the normal RS.
Where the Trophy has however seen the biggest changes is underneath its skin, where the Cup chassis, which already boasts a Torsen mechanical limited-slip differential, has been beefed-up with stiffer anti-roll bars, firmer shocks, and tighter springs, as well as bi-material front brake discs, claimed to reduce unsprung mass by 1.8kg per wheel. As with the regular Cup, stopping power is provided by a pair of red Brembo brake calipers.
Retaining the RS’ 4Control rear-wheel steering system, the Trophy also keeps the 1.8-litre turbocharged engine, but with an upgraded blower and new exhaust system that lifts power from 206kW to 220kW. While Renault has surprisingly opted not to reveal any performance figures, it has confirmed that the model will be offered with a six-speed manual gearbox as standard, or a six-speed EDC for the first time, the latter also resulting in a torque from 400Nm to 420Nm.
With Renault expected to debut the standard Megane RS in both Sport and Cup versions in South Africa next month, the Trophy could debut in early 2019.
In Australia, pricing for the regular RS starts at $44 990 (R443 342) for the manual and tops out at $47 490 (R467 978) for the EDC, but expect local models to be priced in the region of R500 000-R550 000 with the Trophy likely to approach the R600 000 mark as it aims to take on the Volkswagen Golf R and Honda Civic Type R.
