Renault Megane RS review

Range-topping Trophy version aside, the Megane RS is a bit cheaper than the Honda Civic Type R if pricier than the smaller Toyota GR Yaris. That’s true whether you’re paying cash, signing up to PCP deal or getting one as a company car – and it remains the case after you’ve factored in all the bills you’re likely to face during three years of ownership.

While the Trophy looks much more expensive than the basic car on paper, once you’ve factored in everything you get, including its uprated chassis, upgraded brakes and larger wheels, the gap narrows massively. If you plan on a few trackdays, it’s the one to go for.

Standard equipment is pretty generous and includes climate control, LED headlights, rear parking sensors and keyless entry. We’d recommend metallic paint, but that’s it in terms of options. All models happily get automatic emergency braking and lane-keeping assistance as standard.

Renault finished a dismal 30th out of 31 manufacturers in our 2021 Reliability Survey, far behind mid-table Volkswagen and 8th-placed Honda. Toyota did even better with an outstanding third place finish.

At least every new Renault carries a five-year warranty with no mileage limit for the first two years, but a 100,000 limit applies thereafter. Renault also provides three years (or 60,000 miles) of roadside assistance cover.

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