Renault reveals new Megane R26.R

Posted Tue Jul 22 2008 4:11 AM by Nelson Ireson

The latest addition to the Renault Sport performance family is the Megane R26.R, which was displayed today for the first time at the London Motor Show. The new car is based on the existing Megane F1 Team R26 and uses the same engine, gearbox and limited slip differential, but has been lightened by 123kg and features a specific suspension calibration.

The R26.R edition is easily recognizable by its unpainted carbon-fiber bonnet, unique 18in forged alloy wheels and Sabelt bucket seats complete with racing harnesses. Other features include a new spoiler and graphics, tinted lights, and seven unique exterior color schemes, plus an optional roll cage and titanium exhaust system.

Inside, the sports theme is continued with leather and suede for the steering wheel and gearlever bellows. To save weight engineers removed the rear seats, airbags (except for the driver airbag), climate control system, windscreen wipers, foglamps, and most of the soundproofing.

No changes have been made to the engine from the previous Team F1 R26, which means output remains at 230hp (169kW) and 310Nm of torque. This is enough to see the car go from 0-100km/h in 6 seconds.

The unique model is manufactured at the Alpine Renault factory in Dieppe, France, and only 450 examples are planned for production. First sales will start in October. Later this year Renault will also introduce the new Twingo Renault Sport.

Gallery: Renault Megane R26.R

Reader Comments

Tue May 20 2008 1:32 AM
rnsaza says

Sweet!

R26 is the best FWD car I've driven ito performance, it puts it's power down surprisingly well for a FWD car with so much power.
Tue May 20 2008 2:54 AM
bambam says

wots wrong with honda type R?
its been great all those previous models
and the current one.
Tue May 20 2008 3:29 AM
rnsaza says

To drive I'd take the Renault, to own the Honda.
Tue May 20 2008 6:32 AM
Alan says

personally i would go with the civic type-r, but only the JDM version not the euro one. with honda, you can trust it'll be reliable and start every morning
Tue May 20 2008 9:17 AM
CK says

Here in Germany for example the Type-R is missing a LSD und handling could be a bit sharper compared an Megane R26 or the old Focus RS. Also the insurance costs are much higher for the Honda. But despite that it is a great car.
Wed May 21 2008 12:55 PM
burke says

I drove one from Madrid to Paris through all those mountains and the steering capabilities of that car are second to none...

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