New Renaultsport Megane Headed for Geneva

Renault's sporting unit, Renaultsport, is preparing to debut their enhanced version of the Megane at this year's Geneva auto show in March. The initial model will be based off the three-door Megane coupe and should go head to head with the Volkswagen Scirocco, but the company is also said to be considering launching a five-door version based off the regular Megane hatchback.

As with any hot-hatch, the new Renaultsport Megane will have unique styling which will emphasize the car's sporting prowess. The exterior will draw inspiration from the Megane trophy race car, which debuted at last year's Paris motor show, and several of the more interesting features of that car will be carried over, including the aero blade styling on the front air intake, a radical rear bumper treatment and a center mounted exhaust. Reports also indicate that the car will have flared wheel arches and a wider track, both of which will help set it apart from the more mainstream version of the Megane.

Power will come from the 2.0-liter turbocharged engine that is used in the current Renault Megane R26, but output is expected to increase by 20 bhp for a total of 250bhp. Early estimates suggest that when equipped with a six-speed manual, the new Renaultsport Megane should be capable of hitting 62mph in six seconds flat.

In order to make sure that the car is more than just about power, Renaultsport engineers have gone to work equipping the new model with a double axis front suspension designed to limit torque steer, race ready Brembo brakes, and the option of having the car equipped with a limited-slip differential. The electric power steering has also been recalibrated in order to offer the driver improved feel and greater accuracy.

Look for the new Renaultsport Megane to go on sale this summer with pricing expected to be announced closer to launch.