Orders for Renault's latest iteration of Megane R.S 300 and R.S Trophy have opened in the UK. Aside from doing away with the 280hp model variant - announced earlier this year - the manufacturer has confirmed a modest number of alterations, including the decision to make the car available exclusively with the EDC transmission.
The elimination of the six-speed manual will doubtless be a blow to some, but likely made too little financial sense to the manufacturer - even with the arrival of a new three-pedal Volkswagen Golf GTI just around the corner. Elsewhere the Megane is fundamentally unchanged: the 300hp 1.8-litre turbocharged engine remains, as does a choice of Sport and Cup chassis, the latter standard on the Trophy, which gets the limited-slip differential and 19-inch wheels among other upgrades.
The update brings with it new full LED lighting signatures and a lightly updated front grille alongside enhanced upholstery inside. The real improvement though is on the infotainment front where Renault's latest EasyLink system migrates to the main 9.3-inch display. The manufacturer promises better connectivity and usability from the software change, as well as faster responses from a new touchscreen - a common source of complaint among R.S owners.
Prices start at £32,995 for the 300; £36,995 for the Trophy. Cost options include a panoramic sunroof (£1,000), Renault Sport Recaro seats with Alcantara upholstery (£1,600) for the Trophy or just the Alcantara trim (£1,000) for the 300. Apparently the Trophy-R is still available, too, priced from £51,455.
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