RenaultSport Megane 225 is available in a variety of specifications. The one being reviewed here today is an August 2004 standard spec Megane 225. Renault is quite well established in Australia with its Clio and Scenic model lineups. Its performance brand, RenaultSport, is well known for the RS Clio which had great reputation for handling and power from a small car. The Megane was introduced as the second model in the RenaultSport brand and was suitable for buyers wanting more luxury, refinement and a larger car than the Clio and to buyers looking for an alternative in the performance hot hatch niche market.

Standard pricing was just over AU$40000(RRP) for a standard specification RSM225. RenaultSport kitted the Megane with an impressive list of features and specifications including 2.0L twin scroll turbocharged engine producing 165KW/300Nm, six speed gearbox, 5-star NCAP rating with 6 airbags, traction control with electronic stability programme.

Inside the cabin, leather is standard with orange stitching to be found on the seats and trim. The seat belts are also orange adding to the overall sports theme. The interior plastics have a soft "rubbery" that feels great but can peel if scraped. Climate control, cruise control/speed limiter, steering mounted CD/radio controls for the 6 speaker VDO based system and metal pedals are also present with a whole lot of other typical French car novelties to be found, eg. chilled glovebox, "secret" compartments and more. Automatic headlights and wipers with reverse function are also present.

On the outside, you will find 17 inch 8 spoke wheels (a larger version of the RS Clio wheels) fitted with Continental rubber. Brembo calipers with large diameter 320mm? discs provide great stopping power. ABS, EBD and ESP is available to aid in emergency situations. The traction control can be switched off for take offs, but automatically kicks in again once you reach 50km/h. Twin exhaust tips and flared wheel arches add to the sporty look. RenaultSport also widened the track of the Megane to improve cornering.

The first thing about the RS Megane that begs to be tested is the 2.0L twin scroll turbocharged engine. Initial drive outside the turbo range is reasonable providing enough torque normal driving. But the fun begins as the turbo spools up unleashing 90% of maximum torque from 2000rpm and pulling you back into your seat. I would describe the turbo delivery smoother than the 200SX S15 Silvias, but more punchy than a 2.5L Tubro WRX. The exhaust note is not aggressive but the turbo whistle can be heard quite audibly which is a unique touch. Very addictive.

Gearing is quite aggressive with the first being short and tending to cause wheelspin. Second is the favorite for pulling away. Downshifting to fifth is unneccessary for casual overtaking on the freeway as there is plenty of torque even in sixth.

The ride is generally smooth but can be a little firm on the harsher bumps and uneven surfaces. Cornering ability is good with the tuned suspension and low profile Continental tyres and an ESP system that provides a safety margin for over ambitious drivers. The traction control system will tend to kick in on acceleration exiting corners which is expected as the car lacks an LSD.

The Contis are a softer compound which means it tends to wear out quite quickly but provide superior grip while fresh. They are also a wider profile which is a good thing because 165KW on the front wheels are a lot to ask for. Unfortunately, the handling is not perfect with the electric steering system providing a smooth but artificial feel and the response is slow. Owners will eventually get used to the (lack of) response, but guest/occasional drivers will immediately feel the difference.

Inside the cabin, seats are supportive, road noise is well surpressed and the climate control system only just manages to do its job in the Australian summer heat. The six speaker stereo can be described as average but the steering integration is handy. The cruise control and speed limiter function does a good and consistent job at all speeds including 5th on a 60km/h or 6th on a 80km/h zone. The rain sensing wipers can usually be left on automatic mode and does a good job most of the time, but occasionally can be erratic prompting a manual override. The automatic headlights however is spot on, and I believe it uses a combination of a light sensor and a clock reading to work out whether the lights should be on or off. Although the look the part, the aluminium pedals can be slippery on rainy days. I believe the windshield is metallic coated for UV protection which causes long delay in getting a GPS fix.

There are six enclosed compartments including the chilled glovebox and the 60/40 split folding seats are useful for those carrying large objects. Personally I can quite comfortably fit my road bicycle with the front wheel detached. Cup holders? Two. The side door compartments have a ridge that can hold 1.25L bottles. The spare wheel, should you ever need it, is a full sized matching alloy wheel.

At the petrol pump, you will find two pleasant surprises - 1) buttonless fuel flap and 2) a capless fuel nozzle. The Megane drinks around 11L/100km for my mixed city/freeway style driving and occasional turbo sprees.

Overall the RS Megane provides a nice balance between performance and comfort, luxury and safety. You will find that it is more refined and provides more creature comforts when compared to a WRX or S15 Silvia. The engine is superb. The combination of power availabilty and punchy feel is perfect. If you are looking for a performance vehicle but won't put up with the rawness or basic specifications of its competition, then the RenaultSport Megane is a great choice.

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