Renault Megane RS 2018 pricing and specs confirmed

Renault Australia has confirmed pricing for its forthcoming Megane RS, with the performance hatch set to hit local showrooms in November with a starting price of $44,990 plus on-road costs.

Opting for a six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission instead of the standard six-speed manual bumps pricing up to $47,490, which still leaves the French hot hatch among the least expensive in its segment. 

For comparison, the Megane RS sits below key rivals including the Peugeot 308 GTi, which starts at $45,990, the identically priced $50,990 Honda Civic Type R and all-paw Ford Focus RS, as well as the Volkswagen Golf R Grid at $47,490.

However, the Renault still loses out to the recently-released Hyundai i30 N with its sub-$40k price-tag of $39,990, as well as entry-level offerings such as the Volkswagen Golf GTI Original ($37,490) and the Ford Focus ST ($38,990).

Only one variant will be available, the Sport, though a $1490 Cup pack can be optioned in manual versions, adding go-fast extras including Brembo 'bi-material' brakes, 19-inch black alloy wheels, a Torsen limited-slip diff and a 'Cup' chassis which is 10 per cent stiffer with revised springs, dampers and bump stops.

Renault will also offer options including metallic paint, Alcantara upholstery, a Bose sound system and a panoramic sunroof.

Motivating the car is a 1.8-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine developing 205kW at 6000rpm and 390Nm between 2400-4800rpm, which is sent exclusively to the front wheels.

Renault's '4Control' four-wheel steering system is equipped to improve both high-speed handling and low-speed maneuverability, and 355mm front and 290mm rear rotors handle braking.

Standard safety equipment includes auto emergency braking (AEB), adaptive cruise control, blind-spot warning, distance warning, ESC, ABS, hands-free parking, surround parking sensors, rearview camera and hill-start assist.

Inside, the hot hatch features an 8.7-inch multimedia system capable of displaying performance analytics including acceleration, braking, and wheel angle.

Furthermore, the car gains RS badging, sports seats, a perforated leather steering wheel and shifter, satellite navigation, dual-zone climate control, and heated folding wing mirrors.

2018 Renault Megane RS list pricing

Renault Megane RS – manual – $44,990
Renault Megane RS – automatic – $47,490

What is your favourite hot hatch that is currently on the market? Tell us your thoughts in the comment section below.