What's this about?
Renault has added a new model to the Mégane range as an entry to its performance line-up. Priced from £23,245 the Mégane GT 220 is available as a hatchback, coupé and estate (or Sport Tourer as Renault calls it) with 2.0-litre turbo power and a Renaultsport-tuned chassis.
What do you get?
Based on the Mégane GT Line the new version shares the look of the other GT models including the larger front bumper air intake and diffuser in the rear bumper. Compared to the less powerful models the GT 220 gets larger, 18-inch wheels with 225/40 Dunlop Sport Maxx tyres.
What about under the skin?
Power comes from a 220hp version of the petrol engine used in the more potent Mégane Renaultsport models. Drive goes through a six-speed gearbox and Renault claims 0-62mph in 7.6 seconds with a 149mph top speed. On a more practical note, combined cycle fuel economy is 38.7mpg with CO2 emissions of 169g/km.
The GT 220 isn't just about what's under the bonnet, as the chassis set-up is new too. Front and rear damper settings are based on the sporting Méganes and the rear bump stops are taken from the Renaultsport range. The steering calibration differs from the mainstream Méganes to take into account the suspension and tyre characteristics.
A combination of 320mm ventilated front brake disks (up from 280mm on less powerful GT Line models), 260mm rear disks and the master cylinder from the Mégane Renaultsport take care of stopping. Of course there are also plenty of driver aids including Anti-Skid Regulation, Understeer Logic Control and anti-lock brakes with emergency brake assist.
Is there anything else?
If you want a Mégane GT 220 Coupé or Sport Tourer they cost £24,230 and £24,245 respectively.
John Lambert - 12 Feb 2015