Renaultsport Megane F1 R26 (November 2007)

Launched: Renaultsport Megane F1 R26

Wheels Magazine
October, 2007

Just to clear one thing up, yes, the Renaultsport Megane F1 Team R26 is pretty well the same as the previous hot Megane, the Renaultsport 225 F1 Team. But here are two good reasons why it, in all its bright yellow, big-bummed glory, should still be registering on your radar.

First, it has a limited-slip differential. With 165kW through its front wheels you always knew the 225 F1 didn't. Second, we lamented the fact Oz only got 30 of the brilliant 225 F1s. We're getting 80 R26s, so excluding the 20-odd that were pre-sold to eager enthusiasts, there's around 60 more chances to be part of an exclusive club.

As well as the mechanical LSD the R26 adds to the garden-variety Renaultsport 225 package, there's a fraction more grunt (up to 168kW/310Nm) from mapping tweaks and a higher-flowing exhaust system. Renaultsport's Cup chassis pack, comprising stiffer springs, uprated dampers and a 10 percent stiffer rear anti-roll bar (a $2000 option on five-door 225s), is also standard.

The upgraded chassis works together with a retuned stability control system that permits more understeer and oversteer (than the 225) before it shuts down the fun. The purist drivers targeted by the R26 will also be thankful for the switchable ESP - once off, it doesn't re-engage. Its traction control system is also recalibrated to take advantage of LSD-derived grip for scorching launches.

If modern day hot hatches can be criticised for being perhaps a bit too subtle in displaying their performance intent to the world, no such accusation can be levelled at the R26. The combination of a retina-roasting pearlescent yellow hue (black is also available) and chequered-flat 'F1 Team' decals on the bumpers, doors and roof evoke memories of big-power, turbo-era Renault F1s. Four huge discs and front Brembo calipers signpost their potential from behind 18-inch, 12-spoke OZ Racing charcoal alloys.

Inside, a numbered plaque under the handbrake reminds the driver of the R26's significance - it commemorates Renault's dual 2006 Formula One world championships with its 'R26' race car.

Interior delights abound, with a pair of brilliantly supportive front Recaros, drilled alloy pedals, and leather-trimmed wheel with a neat, red-stitched 'straight-ahead' marking.

Wheels liked the old 225 F1 Team Car very much, naming it our emotional choice in a five-way hot hatch shootout earlier this year (March click here for more), and the good news is very little has changed.

Like most hot hatches with the outright grip and body control levels of the R26, it does ride firmly, although it's never harsh or crashy like the old car. But it's lost none of the incredible grip, poise or sheer entertainment value of its predecessor.

While steering feel was never a Megane strong point, in R26 form there's accuracy and weighting in its favour.

Its six-speeder has a fluid and well-oiled action that is a delight to snick through the ratios. However, as its intercooled-turbo, twin-cam 2.0-litre is as flexible as ever (Renault claims a huge 90 percent of peak torque between 2000 and 6000 revs), you don't need to work it to keep the R26 on the boil with lots of cog swapping. There's also new found conviction in the way it puts power to tarmac. Thank the LSD.

Exhaust sonics are perhaps a fraction deeper, louder and more tuneful than before, and that shrill turbo whistle remains when the tacho needle starts hunting the redline.

At the pointy end of the Megane range, and the hot-hatch segment, the R26 offers engaging dynamics and grunt in a package brimming with French character. Such lofty levels of ability are rare, as you'd better be quick.

» Watch the Carsales Network's video on the Renault Megane R26 here

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