By Sala Masindane

We are gradually moving away from the loud and fast hatchbacks. So, whenever we have an opportunity to test a vehicle test one, we jump at the chance. In this instance, we had the updated unicorn Megane R.S. 300 Trophy. Notwithstanding the fact that there are only 55 units claimed to be in the country, it made this test even more special.

What does it look like?

The hot hatch boasts a distinctive sport front bumper with an F1-style blade flanked by the unmistakable Trophy insignia, a shark-fin antenna, updated C-shaped LED headlights and rear lights, and an exhaust pipe with a dual sound valve system. The design of the hot hatch shies away from the petrol-head bias looks, but is distinctive enough to win most beauty contests among its competitors.

Interior

Stepping inside the Trophy, you will be met by Alcantara seats finished with racy red topstitching. It is equipped with the Renault Sport Multimedia System which includes a convenient portrait-sized Easy Link 7-inch touchscreen system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The cabin features good quality materials but feels dated. Notwithstanding this, the portrait-like infotainment works well and there’s sufficient space to accommodate four adults.

Drive and performance

Under the hood of the Trophy is a 1.8-litre four-cylinder petrol engine with a revised turbocharger that uses technology sourced from Formula One. It has produces 221kW/420Nm and is paired to a dual-clutch EDC gearbox. Top speed is capped at 260 km/h, with the 0 to 100 km/h sprint reached in a claimed 5.7 seconds.

Start up the 1.8-litre four-cylinder petrol engine, and you will be met by a soundtrack fitting for the hot hatch tag. The theme is also reaffirmed by the on-tap acceleration and nimble handling. It gives all that you expect from a performance hatch and more.

Does it excel in the daily commutes as well?

Renault claims that the Megane R.S. 300 Trophy has a fuel consumption of 8.7l/100km, but during our time in the hot hatch returned with figures of 11.8l/100km, even when driving conservatively. It’s come a long way from the track-biased vehicle it was before, and the daily commute is comfortable. This boards well for enthusiasts, but the starting price of R949,999 may be deterrence. Whichever way, this is now a collector’s item and is worth buying if you are in the market for one.

Pricing includes a standard with a 5-year/150 000km warranty and a 5-year/90 000km service plan.