Renault Sport, a renowned player in the performance hatchback game, is ending its sub-brand to make way for Alpine but there is one last hoorah in the Renault Megane RS Ultime limited edition.
This final Renault Sport hot hatch marks the close of a chapter in automotive history and doing so in style as the limited edition Renault Megane RS Ultime is gobsmackingly gorgeous. However, there’s so much more to this hot hatch as it comes loaded with features, advanced technologies and mouthwatering performance.
This remarkable car will be limited to only 1,976 production units to commemorate its founding year of 1976. Its distinct exterior and interior features set it apart from the rest and the good news is that some of these cars will reach South Africa by late 2023.
Renault Megane RS Ultime Engine Specs And Performance
The Renault Megane RS Ultime is powered by the same 1.8-litre turbocharged engine from the impressive Megane RS Trophy, producing 221 kW and 420 Nm of torque through the front wheels and a six-speed manual or EDC dual-clutch automatic gearbox, although the latter is only available in Europe.
Not that performance stats should mean that much in a collectable hot hatch but according to Renault, it boasts a 0-100 km/h time of 5.7 seconds which is pretty quick and comes standard with a lowered Cup chassis, Brembo brakes, 4Control four-wheel-steering system, and Bridgestone Potenza S007 semi-slick tyres.
What About The Styling And Features?
The interior features Recaro bucket seats numbered door sills and Renault Group development driver Laurent Hurgon’s signature on the centre console. It also includes a 9.3-inch touchscreen with navigation and telemetry, a 10-inch digital instrument cluster, a Bose Hi-Fi system, adaptive cruise control, and 360-degree cameras.
The left-hand-drive model has additional options such as a head-up display and a sunroof, and owners can also opt for a special cover with RS Ultime graphics. The exterior is fitted with an RS-specific body kit, 60 mm wider at the front and 45 mm wider at the back, with sporty additions such as an F1-style blade, side gills, a larger rear wing, and rear diffuser with a centrally-mounted exhaust pipe.
The car is visually distinguishable with matte black graphics and glossy black accents, with Ultime lettering on the front bumper and lettering inspired by Renault’s emblem and 1976 on the right side. It can be paired with four exterior colours, Star Black, Pearl White, Sirius Yellow, and Orange Tonic, and black “Fuji Light” 19-inch wheels.
The Last Renault RS Hot Hatch Takes Its Final Bow
The Renault Megane RS Ultime is the final model of its kind, and it stands as a testament to one of the greatest hot hatch dynasties ever created. Even better? It’s an eye-catching yellow that calls attention – proof that this legacy won’t soon be forgotten!
According to Laurent Hurgon: “Since the Megane II Phase 2, we have constantly improved its dynamic performance in order to remain the leader in front-wheel-drive sports cars. The records on the Nürburgring Nordschleife are unforgettable challenges, full of passion, adrenaline and emotion. And now, Megane RS Ultime. I am particularly proud to sign the version crowning this wonderful saga.”
In celebration of the 20th anniversary of its inception in 2003, the Renault Megane RS Ultime will make a public debut at the Tokyo Auto Salon. This final model marks the end of an era and will certainly be talked about for many years to come.