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Renault Mégane RS (2018 to 2022)

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Renault Mégane RS (2018 to 2022)

Not a current model

    Summary


    The Renault Mégane RS (which stands for Renault Sport) was a high-performance model based on the regular Mégane mid-sized family hatchback. This model was launched in 2018 and was the third (and final) generation. Unlike previous versions, it was only available as a five-door model rather than a three-door.

    The Mégane RS was available with 280hp in Sport or Cup specifications, and with 300hp in Trophy or Trophy-R specification.

    The Renault Mégane RS received good to very good scores from the UK motoring media, although the top-spec models generally received better ratings than the entry-level 280hp model. It was particularly praised for the quality of its driving experience, with outstanding handling and road holding. The only real criticisms were that it wasn’t as fun on a track as previous generations.

    This was the last Mégane RS model, with the petrol Mégane family replaced by the all-new 2022 Renault Mégane E-Tech EV. Future performance Renaults are also expected to be branded as Alpine models, much like Abarth does with performance Fiat models or Cupra does with performance SEATs.

    Key specifications


    Body style: Five-door hatch
    Engines: 280hp or 300hp petrol
    Price: From £32,995 on-road

    Launched: Spring 2018
    Last updated: Spring 2019
    Ended prodution: Sprin 2022


    Media reviews


    Reviews, road test and comparisons from across the UK automotive media. Click any of the boxes to view.

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    Safety rating


    Independent crash test and safety ratings from Euro NCAP

    Overall score: 5 stars
    Date tested: December 2015
    Read the full Euro NCAP review

    Adult protection: 88%
    Child protection: 87%
    Vulnerable road users: 71%
    Safety assist: 71%

    Note on safety rating

    The Renault Mégane RS shared its safety rating with the regular Mégane hatchback, which was tested by Euro NCAP in December 2015 and awarded a five-star rating with very good scores across the board. However, this rating expired in January 2022 and is no longer valid. This is normal for Euro NCAP ratings, as the standards required to achieve each star rating get tougher every year.

    However, if you’re looking at purchasing a used Mégane RS, you should certainly consider it to be a very safe car when compared to other cars from the same era (2016 to 2021).

    Eco rating


    Independent economy and emissions ratings from Green NCAP

    No eco rating

    The Renault Mégane RS was not lab tested by Green NCAP during its production cycle.

    Reliability rating

    MotorEasy logo 600x167

    Reliability data provided exclusively for The Car Expert by MotorEasy

    All data based on MotorEasy average workshop costs for extended car warranty claims

    The Renault Mégane has a reliability rating that it slightly above average, according to exclusive warranty data provided to The Car Expert by our partner, MotorEasy. This score covers both this generation of Mégane and Mégane RS, as well as previous models.

    The most common problems for Mégane owners, with more than a third of all warranty claims, are braking system issues. Fortunately, these have been relatively inexpensive with an average repair cost of less than £200. Likewise, suspension faults are fairly common but relatively inexpensive.

    It’s worth noting that gearbox issues have cropped up in Méganes, Although they account for only about one in fifteen claims, the average repair cost is about £1,400. If you’re looking at a used Mégane, make sure any extended warranty you purchase covers all of these potential problem areas.

    Similar cars


    If you’re looking at the Renault Mégane RS, you might also be interested in these alternatives

    Audi RS 3 | BMW M135i | Cupra Leon | Ford Focus ST | Honda Civic Type R | Mercedes-AMG A 35 | Suzuki Swift Sport | Volkswagen Golf R | Volkswagen Polo GTI

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    The Renault Mégane RS has received very good media reviews, with the 300hp models generally receiving better ratings than the 280hp model.Renault Mégane RS (2018 to 2022)