Skip advert
Advertisement

Renault Mégane RS (2017-2022) review – design

Renault’s big investment in this generation can be seen in its almost completely bespoke body

Evo rating
RRP
from £27,495
  • Willing and enthusiastic engine; EDC transmission not the weak link it could have been
  • Still lacks that last ounce of cohesion and engagement; feels like Renault’s moved on symbolically

Design trends come and go, but proportions are timeless, something the current Mégane RS makes excellent use of. When development commenced on this generation of RS, Renault Sport’s insistence on a wider rear axle came with the huge expense of giving it its own bespoke body-in-white.

It’s this foundation that Renault’s designers have capitalised on in what has long been, and remains, the best looking hot hatchback on sale. In contrast to most, if not all its main rivals, the RS has a brilliant flared stance that’s nowhere more evident than the rear end, accentuated by its near full-width rear lights and crisp signature. While you’re back there, the bulbous proportions are given plenty of welcome garnish with a (supposedly) functional rear diffuser and a central exhaust outlet.

Advertisement - Article continues below

The effect is no less dramatic up front, which too is dominated by flared arches, this time covering the wider front track. Slick LED headlights and those curious chequered-flag daytime running lights complete the lighting up front, while three attractive wheel designs and a good range of colours complete the package.

Skip advert
Advertisement
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

Renault 5 Turbo 3E: Why the French firm is confident about its £140k hatchback
Renault 5 Turbo 3E
News

Renault 5 Turbo 3E: Why the French firm is confident about its £140k hatchback

£140k for a Renault 5 is a huge ask. Here’s why the firm is confident in its unconventional supercar’s appeal and purpose
4 Nov 2026
Renault Mégane RS (Mk4, 2018-2022) review – the flawed but underrated Civic Type R rival
Renault Mégane RS
In-depth reviews

Renault Mégane RS (Mk4, 2018-2022) review – the flawed but underrated Civic Type R rival

The difficult fourth-generation Renault Sport Mégane had its moments of genius, even if they weren’t as profound as its unbeatable predecessors
5 Nov 2026
Aston Martin Vantage (1993 - 2000) review – Britain's last truly hand-built supercar
Aston Martin Vantage V550
In-depth reviews

Aston Martin Vantage (1993 - 2000) review – Britain's last truly hand-built supercar

One of Aston Martin's last true hand-built models, the ludicrous twin-supercharged Vantage was a muscle car crossed with a stately home
4 Nov 2026