Renault Megane GT debuts at 2015 Frankfurt with 205 PS and four-wheel steering
Renault has launched the fourth-generation Megane at the 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show, highlighting the new GT flagship with 205 PS, 4Control four-wheel steering and a sharper design.
Renault has unveiled the fourth-generation Megane at the 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show, putting the spotlight on the new GT model as the range flagship. The Megane GT, developed with input from Renault Sport, arrives with a 205 PS turbocharged petrol engine, seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox and four-wheel steering, aiming to bring sharper dynamics to the compact hatch segment.
Sharper looks and new tech
The new Megane adopts Renault’s latest design cues, drawing heavily from the larger Talisman saloon. The car sits lower and wider than its predecessor, with a longer wheelbase for improved rear legroom. At the front, the GT stands out with a bespoke grille, aggressive lower intake and distinctive LED daytime running lights. The rear features full-LED tail lamps with 3D graphics and a new diffuser flanked by twin exhaust pipes. Diamond-cut 18-inch alloy wheels complete the GT’s exterior makeover.
Inside, the Megane introduces features not previously seen in the class. Buyers can specify a portrait-format 8.7-inch R-Link 2 touchscreen or a more conventional 7-inch landscape display. A full-colour head-up display is also available. The GT’s interior gets sports seats, blue stitching and aluminium pedal covers to match its performance billing.
Engine and chassis details
The Megane GT is powered by a 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine producing 205 PS (151 kW), paired with a seven-speed EDC dual-clutch automatic. The headline technical feature is Renault’s 4Control four-wheel steering, which is unique in the segment and promises improved agility at low speeds and greater stability at higher speeds. The GT also receives a sports chassis tuned by Renault Sport engineers.
Other engine options for the new Megane include three diesel units (90, 110 and 130 PS) and two additional petrols (100 and 130 PS). Selected engines can be paired with Renault’s EDC automatic, but the 205 PS GT is the only model to feature both the seven-speed EDC and 4Control system at launch.
Market launch and rivals
European sales of the new Megane are scheduled to begin in early 2016, with UK deliveries expected a few months later. The GT will compete with performance-focused versions of the Ford Focus, Volkswagen Golf and Peugeot 308, but stands out with its four-wheel steering and dual-clutch transmission. Renault has not yet confirmed pricing or detailed performance figures for the GT, but the technical specification places it above most mainstream rivals in terms of chassis technology.
For more on the evolution of the Megane, see our coverage of the previous generation’s debut at the 2013 Frankfurt show:Renault Megane Unveiled With New Look at 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show
