Renault Mégane RS 2018

Renault presented the 2018 Mégane R.S. as the first car in its segment to combine four-wheel steering with a compact performance hatchback of this type. The system does not make the car four-wheel drive: the front wheels remain driven, while the rear wheels alter their angle to influence agility and stability. The Trophy name introduced for the later 300-hp version also continued a designation already used by earlier generations of Mégane R.S.

No verified global production figure is retained here for the 2018 Renault Mégane R.S. The manufacturer sources consulted focus on the model’s launch, technical specification and the later introduction of the Trophy, but do not publish a consolidated total for all cars built. Production should therefore be separated from market availability: the standard Mégane R.S. was announced for 2018, while the Trophy revealed on 19 July 2018 was scheduled for a later market launch, including early 2019 in Belgium and Luxembourg. Volumes could also differ according to country, transmission and chassis configuration. Without a complete official production register, quoting a total would risk overstating the available evidence.

Specialist road tests generally praised the Mégane R.S. for its chassis effectiveness, front-end precision and ability to remain usable as an everyday car. Car and Driver highlighted the combination of front-wheel drive, 4CONTROL and Renault’s suspension solutions, while describing the car as more civilised than some earlier Renault Sport models. Evo likewise credited the car with strong grip, engaging handling and impressive damping, but criticised aspects of the infotainment system and found the EDC gearbox less satisfying for drivers seeking maximum involvement. The overall reception was therefore favourable on dynamic ability, although reviewers were more measured about engine character and certain items of equipment.