Renault Launches New Megane 225 Trophy
Published: 9th March 2005
Renault Megane
A new attitude for maximum driving pleasure
Engineered to be an even more driver-focused car, including a new sports-tuned chassis and suspension, unique Dunlop tyres and new Brembo brakes, the new Trophy is not a stereotypical ‘limited edition’ model with just a new body colour and more equipment, and will certainly give the recent spate of new hot hatch entrants to the sector much cause for concern.
Powered by the same two-litre turbocharged engine as that found in the current Renaultsport 225, the Trophy will be one of the fastest hot hatches around, with a 0-62mph time which will certainly keep Audi TT and Porsche Boxster owners honest. Mated to a six-speed, close-ratio manual gearbox, this class-leading engine develops 225hp at 5,500rpm and 300Nm of torque at 3,000rpm, with at least 90% of this torque available between 2,000 and 6,000rpm.
New sporting "Cup Chassis"
- Independent Pivot front suspension
- Uprated front and rear spring rates (25% front, 77% rear)
- Front and rear damper rates re-tuned
The chassis of the new Megane Renaultsport 225 Trophy has been developed entirely for the pleasure of driving and benefits from unique components and settings. Improved body support results in lower roll angles, less pitching during acceleration and also less nosedive under braking. Cornering potential and overall road handling on all types of surface has also been improved thanks to revised front suspension set-up with greater turn authority and significantly reduced understeer.
Cut speed with confidence - New braking systems
- Drilled front and rear brake discs with Brembo front calipers
- Increased brake master cylinder diameter (23mm to 25mm) and the removal of Brake Assist (deleted to improve track-driving potential, reduce pedal travel and enhance progressive feel)
- ESP can be disengaged above 35mph
Another boon for the new car, particularly for track day drivers, is that the Trophy’s electronic stability programme (ESP) system can now be switched off completely above 35mph. Although the system will still intervene should the car veer off line under heavy braking, its intervention threshold has been set higher and its operation made less intrusive.
Working in tandem with the ESP system, the front and rear disc brakes are now drilled to aid cooling and optimum operation in wet conditions, plus the diameter of the master cylinder has been increased from 23.8mm to 25.4mm for better pedal feel and reduced travel. With such a high braking capacity, the Brake Assist system has been removed to allow drivers to make the most of the vehicle’s deceleration potential.
Renault Megane
Our Renault Megane Guide lists the full specification of the current UK Megane range, including car prices, fuel consumption, dimensions and other vital data.
Price Range: £11,995 - £20,895
Body Styles:
Fuel:
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Models in the range: 61
We have road tested the Renault Megane, to read our in-depth car reviews:
Renault Megane Review - May 2006
Renault Megane Review - May 2008
Our Car Buyer’s Guide covers all of the UK’s major new cars and includes CO2 ratings and car insurance groups. Data updated on the 6th July 2008
