CAR /
IMPRESSION
August 20, 2021
Test Drive: The Renault Mégane R.S. – A Pinnacle of Handling Refinement | Renault
It Feels Like the Culmination of the Internal Combustion Front-Wheel-Drive Path
However, when actually driving on winding roads, the dynamic quality is clearly different from the previous 279ps model. What could be the reason?
The increased torque and power are noticeably stronger than the previous model, but what makes it feel more potent than its actual speed is the significant effect of the newly added active valve sports exhaust. Despite likely operating at higher speeds than the previous model due to its power, the Chassis Sport setup exhibits a remarkable depth that easily accommodates this, along with a comfortable ride that remains composed vertically. The deep, crisp exhaust note further enhances the sense of driving engagement.
Regarding handling, the movement of the front axle is impressive, reacting with ample rigidity while exhibiting a satisfying flex due to its adequate suspension travel. When changing direction, there's no vagueness around the center point; the car maintains a confident grip on the road surface.
The 4Control four-wheel steering system also seems to have had its control program further refined, making the rear axle's behavior in low-speed corners, where it steers in the opposite phase, feel more natural. In the previous model, as the front turned, the rear axle clearly swung outwards, a sensation felt distinctly around the hips. Now, it feels as though the rear axle is following the front axle.
In medium to high-speed corners, when the rear wheels steer in phase, the sensation is that the car begins to turn inward with a slight undulation, rather than a parallel shift. Even so, the feeling is less about the outer edge of the tire gripping and more about the center of the tire firmly holding the road. The limits of grip are, frankly, astonishing.
While four-wheel steering is now adopted by many high-end sports models, it's rare in front-wheel-drive cars, with the Mégane R.S. being a prime example. It not only virtually eliminates the inherent weaknesses of front-wheel-drive, where power and steering loads concentrate on the front wheels, but combined with a responsive powertrain and a robust, precise chassis, it corners with astonishing agility. Moreover, it doesn't emphasize a skittish quickness; instead, it delivers a sharp yet wonderfully communicative handling experience.
It feels like the culmination of the internal combustion front-wheel-drive path, but it's not a Frankenstein-like monster; it remains remarkably forgiving to a driver who intends to steer with purpose. The revised Mégane R.S. has truly reached a state of maturity.
