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
Price
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

Kia Stinger GT S Fast Fleet test – 12,000 miles in the V6 sports saloon
evo Fast Fleet Kia Stinger GT S
Long term tests

Kia Stinger GT S Fast Fleet test – 12,000 miles in the V6 sports saloon

After covering 12,000 miles on the Fast Fleet, did the Kia Stinger GT S convince us that it’s a credible alternative to its European rivals?
15 Apr 2024
Italy bans Alfa Romeo Milano name, so now it’s Alfa Romeo Junior
Alfa Romeo Junior/Milano
News

Italy bans Alfa Romeo Milano name, so now it’s Alfa Romeo Junior

Just a few days after the Milano's reveal, Alfa Romeo has been forced to change the car’s name entirely
15 Apr 2024
Aston Martin DB12 Volante 2024 review – Britain’s Ferrari beater?
Aston Martin DB12 Volante
Reviews

Aston Martin DB12 Volante 2024 review – Britain’s Ferrari beater?

First drive of the new V8-engined DB12 Volante, the latest model in Lawrence Stroll’s armoury to turn the company around
15 Apr 2024