Happenings

New Megane RS265 - Red Bull Racing Special Edition

BY Azfar Hashim

After the Clio R.S and Twingo R.S, Renault has now released Mégane R.S to mark its successful partnership with Red Bull Racing on the racetrack.

Photos courtesy of Wearnes Automotive

 

The Mégane RS265 delivers 15 extra horsepower and 20Nm additional torque. Cup chassis with limited slip differential remains the chassis of choice together with the 2.0V 16V turbo engine with manual transmission. Lotus F1 team driver, Romain Grosjean, together with French Ambassador to Singapore, was present to launch the car at the French Residence.

By selecting the Sport Mode, the driver can benefit from a peak power of 265 hp and up to 360 Nm of torque for even crisper acceleration response. Thanks to this Renault Sport innovation, it is possible to use Mégane R.S.’s potential to the full, notably on tracks. At the same time, the sound produced by Mégane R.S.’s engine has been revised to ensure a satisfying pitch at all revs thanks a more open exhaust design and a reinforced sound pipe.

In terms of looks, the front end is more expressive, while the F1-style front blade which is a characteristic of Renault Sport models features two rows of six LEDs and the headlights sport black surrounds. The centre of the new design 18-inch matt black alloy rims (19-inch for Red Bull Edition). A new interior trim has been introduced, featuring sporty details including black lacquer inishes for the centre console and air vent surrounds, plus a charcoal-effect finish for the door panel inserts.

It continues with the R.S Monitor which takes its inspiration from the on-board telemetry systems seen in motor racing. It allows purists to adjust the parameters of the driver aids and benefit from the display of data on the dashboard (automatic timing of 0-100km/h acceleration, throttle settings, etc.).

Meanwhile, its stunning look is emphasised by the Etoilé Black body colour and the contrasting use of Renault’s Sport’s emblematic Sirius Yellow for the F1-style front blade, door mirror housings and diffuser. The roof spots a black chequered flag pattern decal, while Red Bull Racing’s official logo adorns the sides to highlight Mégane R.S. connection with the world of motorsport and Formula 1.

Feel like being reasonable? Simple: select ‘Normal’ mode! The engine delivers a power output of 250hp, plus peak torque of 340Nm. The emergency brake assist and ESC functions are also switched on to deliver a sensation of intense motoring enjoyment in everyday use.

Fancy a little more fun? Switch to the ‘Sport’ mode: The emergency brake assist is deactivated and maximum torque climbs to 360Nm. The engine produces an extra 15 horsepower, while the ESC switches to ‘Sport’ mode, enabling the potential of the chassis and engine to be exploited to the full. The pleasure is heightened by the rousing exhaust pitch.

The Mégane R.S. Red Bull Racing RB7 rounds off the series of limited-edition versions released to celebrate the brand’s association with the Renault-powered Red Bull Racing F1 team, winner of the Formula 1 World Championship in 2010 and 2011 and leader of this year’s provisional standings.