Its 2.0-litre, common-rail 127 kW (175 hp) diesel powerplant boasts a generous maximum torque of 360 Nm available from 2,000 rpm and across an operational power band similar to that of a petrol engine.

Its combined cycle fuel consumption of just 6.5 litres/100 km keeps running costs to a minimum.

In keeping with other models engineered by RenaultSport Technologies, Mégane RenaultSport dCi's chassis delivers rewarding sports performance.

Sensational diesel engine

Renault has fitted its existing top-end 2.0 dCi diesel to the chassis originally developed for Mégane RenaultSport 2.0 Turbo.

This engine is packed with advanced technology, including a variable geometry turbocharger which provides a wide spread of torque throughout the rev range. Piezoelectric injectors are capable of operating up to five times per cycle, which helps reduce engine noise, fuel consumption and particulate emissions.

Coupled to a six-speed manual gearbox and with a combined cycle fuel economy of 6.5 litres/100 km and CO2 emissions of just 172 g/km.

Proven Chassis

Beneath the skin you’ll find the underpinnings of the petrol-powered Mégane RenaultSport 2.0 Turbo and the standard RenaultSport chassis blends dynamic handling with the kind of comfort everyday driving demands.

Independent steering-axis front suspension guarantees precise and efficient handling in all circumstances, while body movement is minimised by a 20 mm-diameter anti-roll bar. The front suspension has also been tuned to suit Mégane RenaultSport dCi’s characteristics and weight distribution. Spring stiffness and damper settings are consequently specific to this diesel version.

The rear suspension is based around a programmed-deflection flexible beam, the torsional stiffness of which is equivalent to that of the Cup chassis version of Mégane RenaultSport 2.0 T (80 Nm/°). The suspension components themselves are identical to those employed on the Sport chassis Mégane RenaultSport 2.0 T.

Powerful and fade-free, the Brembo braking system features four discs that are impressive in terms of both diameter (312 mm and ventilated at the front, 300 mm at the rear) and thickness (28 mm at the front, 11 mm at the rear). The front discs are also equipped with four-piston calipers.

The 18” alloy wheels run 225/40R18 tyres.

The electronically variable power steering has been set up specifically to suit the car’s weight distribution.

Renault Safety

In terms of active safety, Mégane RenaultSport dCi is fitted as standard with a dynamic electronic stability programme (ESP) which has also been set up to suit the car’s particular characteristics. Passive safety features are the same as those on any other Mégane – a five-star performer in EuroNCAP crash tests.

Styling

Externally, Mégane RenaultSport dCi is identical to the petrol version (without the rear spoiler) and is only available in five-door form.

Inside, the mood is distinctly sporting thanks to the aluminium pedals, leather steering wheel and seats with increased lateral support.

Dieppe’s sporting know-how