Renaultsport Megane 265

Ever since the fiery 5 Gordini Turbo burst on to the scene three decades ago, Renault has delivered a string of thrilling hot hatches. The Renaultsport Megane 265 is the latest in this long line, recently getting refreshed looks and more power. It’s still the class benchmark for driving thrills and style.

Exterior changes have been kept to a minimum, with revised headlamps, LED daytime running lights, a reprofiled front bumper and new 18-inch alloys being the most obvious visual tweaks. Elsewhere, the car retains the same rakish coupe-like lines and muscular bodykit as its predecessor. Only the aggressive Focus comes close to matching the Megane for racy visual appeal.

It’s a similar story inside, with a few subtle updates. Like other models in the line-up, the Renaultsport gets an easier-to-use stereo plus better-quality trim. There’s plenty of standard kit, such as dual-zone climate control, leather upholstery and heated front seats – although the figure-hugging Recaro bucket seats fitted to our test car cost a hefty £1,300 extra.

There’s also just about enough room for five adults and plenty of useful storage space. But the Renault can’t match its five-door rivals for practicality, as access to the rear seat is tight and small side windows make it feel claustrophobic back there. And while the 344-litre boot is only six litres smaller than the Golf’s, it’s hobbled by a high loading lip.

Yet for most buyers of these cars, scorching performance will be more important than family-friendliness – and the Megane doesn’t disappoint. Power from the familiar 2.0-litre engine has been boosted from 247bhp to 261bhp, while torque is up 20Nm to 360Nm.

On track, the Megane blasted from 0-60mph in only 6.5 seconds, while it needed just 7.2 seconds for the 50-70mph sprint in sixth. In the real world, the 265 feels even faster, as the power is delivered in a sudden turbo rush, accompanied by a distinctive roar. A slick and precise gearshift and powerful Brembo brakes add to the performance credentials.

Yet it’s on tight and twisty back roads that the Renault excels. Our test car wasn’t fitted with the optional £1,350 Cup chassis, which includes lowered and stiffened suspension, plus a limited-slip differential, but it still felt agile and engaging. Strong grip, rock-solid body control and well weighted steering help the 265 to match the Ford for fun.

Better still, the Renault’s cornering ability doesn’t come at the expense of comfort. It’s not quite as refined as the VW or Ford, but it’s a surprisingly relaxed cruiser. And the ride is composed if you don’t choose the Cup chassis.

At £26,040, the Megane undercuts a five- door manual Golf GTI by £2,440, plus it has Renault’s new 4+ aftersales package, which includes four years’ warranty and servicing. Yet there’s no ignoring the car’s high CO2 emissions and limited practicality.

Details

Chart position: 3
WHY: Latest Renaultsport Megane gets more power, subtly enhanced styling and a revised exhaust note to take it to the top. We test it without hard-edged Cup chassis.