Hot Renault Megane GT220 from £23,245
Renault launches 217bhp Megane GT220, available in hatchback or estate bodystyles
Fancy a Renaultsport Megane 265 but can't afford it - or need more space? Renault has announced a new GT220 variant with a 217bhp 2.0 turbocharged petrol engine. Designed to bridge the gap between the standard GT Line Megane and the full-fat Renaultsport, it's also available in five-door hatch or Sport Tourer bodystyles.
Prices kick off at £23,245 for the three-door GT220 hatchback, undercutting the RS 265 by £2,700. For that you get 217bhp and 340Nm of torque, propelling the car from 0-62mph in 7.6 seconds and on to a top speed of 149mph. The five-door hatch adds £985, while the Sport Tourer estate is £24,245, bringing a 1,600 litre loadspace with the seats folded.
With stop-start as standard, the GT220 returns 38.7mpg, with emissions of 169g/km. It's based on the GT Line TomTom, but adds the extra power alongside stiffer springs and bespoke dampers, and 320mm front brakes adapted from the RS with a reworked brake servo. The steering has also been recalibrated for extra sharpness.
Equipment mirrors that of the existing GT Line trim, including the optional Malta Blue paintwork. That means 18-inch 'Serdard' alloy wheels, sports seats, dual-zone climate control, cruise control, auto lights and wipers and Renault's R-Link sat-nav and infotainment system are all fitted.
The best news for younger buyers is that the GT220 attracts a significantly lower insurance premium than the RS, at group 31 versus group 40. Available to order now from Renault dealers, the GT220 will go head to head with its fellow French rival, the new Peugeot 308 GT.
Now check out our full review of the extreme Renault Megane RS 275 Trophy.
