AB59 • Renault Mégane RS 2 '04

In 2002, the second generation overturned conventions and shows a far less conventional line. The beautiful adopt in 2004 a sulphurous declination RS, synonymous with pleasure but also an embellished line. But in fact, is really worth this first version of Mégane RS.

Technical sheet

Model	Renault Mégane RS 2
Engine	2.0 inline 4-cylinder 225 horsepower
Dimensions	4.21 x 1.78 x 1.46 meter
Mass	1 375 kg
Marketing	2004 - 2006
average coast	8 000 €
0 to 100 km / h	6"5
max	236 km/h
Consumption	8.6 l / 100 km
Date and place	September 27, 2015, Le Mans

Shock . When it was presented to the public in 2002, the second generation Mégane has caused quite strong reactions. There is first the worshipers who quickly succumbed to this deliciously shapely backside. And there were also critics for whom change is too radical and not necessarily harmonious. Available in 3, 5 door, it is also available as convertible and station wagon and sedan trunk. However in 2004, only the versions 3 and 5 doors are available in RS version, a long-awaited declination after promising Clio 2 and chassis with onions.Declared "Car of 2003", Mégane gradually improving its image and reputation. Let us return to the RS. It shows a whopping 225 horses adding to its 4-cylinder 2.0 liter turbocharger. Inevitably, the performance is there and the praises arrive faster-than-expected!

Aesthetically sober . Aesthetically, the changes are rather wise. Note the more openwork bumper, fog lights pushed back as far as possible on the sides and a cut chips grille directly inspired by that of the Clio 2 revisited her as the Renault Sport department. At the rear, we appreciate a spoiler but a diffuser that houses a dual exhaust. Renault had already known with greater audacity. But this time, the brand focuses more on the song that the plumage. So much so that the neophyte who has not paid attention to badges along the door sticks could quite confused with our Mégane RS dCi versions. But the comparison stops there, and just to board to realize that this is not a Mégane Classic Mégane. Yet at first, this is not very encouraging, it is a cabin that is both classic and no frills that awaits you.

Built for the track . Highlight of Renault Sport models, the chassis of the Megane RS 2 has not been abandoned, on the contrary. His ways were enlarged for better stability while the front end is more incisive and accurate than ever. A control mode of the engine torque during downshifts (MSR) has also been developedfor ever greater efficiency and more specifically on track, a place popular with RS models owners. The traction mode is also very accurate to minimize adhesion loss and provide an experience steadily rising, regardless of the initial level of its driver (or drivers, it's your choice!) . Very important also, running gear have been heavily refined, both in terms of braking that the choice of rims and tires. The aid is disconnectable but many, depending on the driving style of the time. Thus we find a distributor for metering braking, Brembo brake calipers and even the lighting of the hazard warning lights of emergency braking. Practical circuit.

Heavy . The Megane RS 2 and opts for versatility with equipment on board quite correct that allows to adapt to city life as well as more unbridled life on track! The 4-cylinder 2.0-liter is taken directly wiser versions but with the addition of a turbo Mitsubishi to bring power to 225 horses. Inevitably, the performances are quite a leap! Acceleration is lively with the 0 to 100 km / h in just 6.5 seconds while the times also become more efficient, well served by the excellent chassis. Only downside to this assessment, weight, high enough that borders the 1.4 tonne. On the one hand, we can say that it is to enjoy the versatility of this Mégane 2 but on the other it tarnishes the balance sheet and reduces the initially furious temper of the beast. Not until the R26-R 2008 to last the less wise and lightest Mégane makes its appearance.

Rather sharp . The 18-inch wheels feature a design that is both classic and imposing 8 branches. Up front, we discover ventilated 312 mm discs gripped by Brembo brake calipers, ensuring optimum braking, while those in the back - not broken - pass 300 millimeters . Braking not toothless and remains very aesthetic. For the first time, the rims spend five nuts, allowing many cases betraying copies of Mégane RS when these hubs have four holes, exclusive to all versions "conventional". You will doubt you, the Megane RS 2 plays in the big leagues and has enabled Renault to demonstrate its expertise in the face of increasingly aggressive competition.Among them, we note the Ford Focus RS and the Honda Civic Type R. The response Peugeot 308 GTI will happen in 2010. Since then, Renault enjoys a rather juicy and prosperous market, gradually grapillant a loving clientele good models, although born and healthy behavior.

Good and less good . Meeting in Dieppe, in the same strings that were born there are already several decades the Alpines, the Megane 2 RS experiencing strong growth and maintains an attractive rating on the second-hand market at around € 8,000 for a fine example . Neuve, the price started at € 29,500 in three-door bodywork. In 2005 a diesel version, more controversial was born, slightly lowering the rating of gasoline. But gasoline Turbo versions remain expensive in the heart of passionate and easy to see why: they are efficient, the style is pretty boilerplate, which allows not to get noticed and behavior is quite honorable, it ' is a wise choice to start the competition but also as a car every day. A point has however retained more critical, semi-bucket seats and semi-leather upholstery fairly low range of aspects, despite the RS embroidering!

Economic . At its restyling in 2006, the Mégane RS 2 receives a plastic a little more polished and dynamic, which is not bad, Renault has drawn lessons from its mistakes. First draft of a long line of sporty Mégane, this version has a guinea pig for the brand to offer choices to the public. As a bonus, the maintenance cost is very measured. If Renault those years suffer many ills, beginning with a dubious electronics, RS models réchappent miraculously there. Through the use of turbo cycle consumption remains below the 9 liters per 100 kilometers while many mechanical parts and bodywork are similar to those of traditional Mégane.

Mini GT . Does not omitting comfort, this Megane 2 RS lack of spice and daring, which is a shame but that will suit those looking for a mini-GT or a model combining family life and use intensive. For sports , it will move towards lighter models that are powerful and R26. But at the fun, be sereint: it is real.

Accessible . With a median price of around € 8,000, the Megane RS 2 Phase 1 is relatively accessible, both in terms of purchase price as consumption and maintenance positions. This is the kind of model that combines business with pleasure without denying the practical aspects. Be careful however on the second hand market to models having excessively worn rubber on track. They may have been abused and suffer prematurely.Beware of some electronic models may still be subject to failure.

Should I buy a Renault Megane 2 RS?

To combine passion and reason, the first version of the Megane RS, produced from 2004 to 2006 is a good compromise. Granted it's not the fastest or the most demonstrative, but its features are numerous and never denies pleasure. For € 8,000, you access a model healthy, balanced chassis, ideal for everyday, perfect for the track.