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

MST Mk1 Evo is an extreme Ford Escort road rally recreation
MST Mk1 Evo front
News

MST Mk1 Evo is an extreme Ford Escort road rally recreation

MST’s Mk1 Evo is a tarmac rally weapon that only vaguely resembles a Ford Escort
7 Jul 2026
Porsche 911 GT3 S/C review – does a convertible GT3 really make sense?
Porsche 911 GT3 S/C front
Reviews

Porsche 911 GT3 S/C review – does a convertible GT3 really make sense?

Making a GT3 convertible was a bold move by Porsche, but one that makes total sense once you drive it
7 Jul 2026
One-off Ferrari 599 shooting brake is the dream supercar estate
Niels van Roij Daytona Shooting Brake Hommage front
News

One-off Ferrari 599 shooting brake is the dream supercar estate

If a Ferrari FF isn’t quite to your taste, or a bit too common, why not commission a coachbuilder for a one-off 599 shooting brake?
8 Jul 2026