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Chris Riley
Contributing Journalist
4 Apr 2012
3 min read
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We turn the spotlight on the Renault Megane Renaultsport 250 Cup and ask the questions to which you want the answers. But there's only one question that really needs answering -- would you buy one?

What is it?

Renault's feisty 2.0-litre hot hatch. If you fancy an EVO or STI, do yourself a favour and have a good, long hard look at one of these. It's that good (without qualification).

How much?

The Megane Renault Sport 250 Cup is priced from $41,990 while the harder edged Trophee version is $46,990.

What are competitors?

Mitsubishi's Lancer Ralliart and of course Sooby's evergreen WRX, both of which are around the same price (avantgarde styling might put conservative punters off)

What's under the bonnet?

Motivation comes from a 2.0-litre turbocharged four cylidner engine that pumps out 184kW at 5500 revs and 340Nm at 3000 revs. 80 per cent of torque is available from 1900 revs. Drive is through a six-speed manual box, with a limited slip diff and Brembo stoppers.

How does it go?

0-100km/h in 6.1 secs. Don't fall into the trap of arguing this has got more power than that. This has got all the get up and go you need and is one of the finest handling fronties you'll ever experience. With 80 per cent of the torque available from 1900 revs, acceleration is smooth and responsive thanks to the twin scroll turbocharger and continuously variable intake valve timing.

Is it economical?

Takes premium unleaded. Rated at 8.7 litres/100km (bog standard car 8.2). We clocked up 400km at a rate of 9.0 litres/100km (even with a bit of twisty stuff thrown in).

Is it green?

Surprisingly, it gets 3.5 out of 5 stars from the Govt's Green Guide, producing 201g/km of CO2.

Is it safe?

You bet. Scores five out of five in crash tests.

Is it comfortable?

Fits like a glove. Short shifting manual is forward mounted and falls easily to hand. Features an independent steering axis layout at the front where the suspension and steering functions have been separated to ensure a particularly high standard of handling and traction performance.

What's it like to drive?

Let's just say it will put a smile on your dial. Not a lot of rear vision, but you're going to be more worried about what's in front rather than behind. Ride quality depends on the surface, but it remains suprisingly settled on bumpy country roads. Wicked turn of speed with incredible levels of grip  who needs all wheel drive?

Is it value for money?

For the price it's a steal. Only option metallic paint at $800. Pity it doesn't include satnav.

Would we buy one?

Show me where to sign. Bang for your buck, this rates up there with the best of them.

Read the full 2012 Renault Megane review

Renault Megane 2012: Renault Sport 250 Cup

Engine Type Turbo 4, 2.0L
Fuel Type Premium Unleaded Petrol
Fuel Efficiency 8.7L/100km (combined)
Seating 5
Price From $11,660 - $15,620
Safety Rating

Pricing Guides

$10,798
Based on 17 cars listed for sale in the last 6 months.
LOWEST PRICE
$5,980
HIGHEST PRICE
$16,990
Chris Riley
Contributing Journalist
Chris Riley is an automotive expert with decades of experience. He formerly contributed to CarsGuide via News Corp Australia.
About Author
Disclaimer: The pricing information shown in the editorial content (Review Prices) is to be used as a guide only and is based on information provided to Carsguide Autotrader Media Solutions Pty Ltd (Carsguide) both by third party sources and the car manufacturer at the time of publication. The Review Prices were correct at the time of publication. Carsguide does not warrant or represent that the information is accurate, reliable, complete, current or suitable for any particular purpose. You should not use or rely upon this information without conducting an independent assessment and valuation of the vehicle.
Pricing Guide
$5,980
Lowest price, based on CarsGuide listings over the last 6 months.
For more information on
2012 Renault Megane
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