What is Renaultsport? Is it worth it?

Many brands offer high performance alternatives to their more humdrum offerings. Renault might offer a range of safe, sensible cars but, for buyers after a little more go, the French marque turns to its in-house experts – Renaultsport.

We’re taking a look at what Renaultsport offers. If you’re on the hunt for a sporty car, read our list of the best hot hatches on sale. Use our new car deals page to get a great price from the best dealers.

Which models is Renaultsport available on?

Aimed squarely at the hot hatch enthusiast, it’s no surprise to see that only the Clio and the Megane are offered in Renaultsport guise. Although it’s a somewhat limited line-up, both cars provide spirited performance and excellent handling, while also delivering fantastic value for money.

Renault Clio Renaultsport models

Renault Cio Renaultsports come in the form of the 200 Nav and the 220 S Trophy. The former makes 200hp from its 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine and gets you from rest to 60mph in 6.1 seconds. Its more powerful sibling, the Trophy, gives you an extra 20hp for even more performance.

Renault Megane Renaultsport models

Two trims also appear for the Renault Megane Renaultsport – the cheaper of the two is the entry-level 275 Cup-S, while the pricier 275 Nav offers a little extra kit. Both produce 275hp and, while the Cup-S is a fully stripped-out road-racer, the Nav offers a plusher interior featuring Alcantara and amenities including sat-nav, climate control and an infotainment system.

Renaultsport engines and technology

The performance produced by these little cars comes from their fantastic engines and well-balanced handling. The Clio’s 1.6 and the Megane’s powerful 2.0-litre units give you fantastic performance figures, but they’re equally happy on the daily grind – both can achieve over 40mpg. Equally, both units comply with the latest EU6 engine standards, so road tax will be cheap, too.

The outstanding handling is thanks to Renaultsport’s unique chassis development. Despite the plentiful power, both cars deal with corners and twisty roads with ease. Unlike some hot hatches, Renaultsport puts just as much thought into the handling as it does to the engine. The driver can also select driving modes in the RS Management System – normal, sport and race depending on what kind of conditions they’re driving in.

Should I buy one?

The cheapest Renault Clio Renaultsport will cost you around £19,000, while a fully kitted-out Megane 275 Nav will set you back £27,000. Considering the fun they offer, they represent great value for money. Some rivals will be more rounded road cars, others will be more practical, some might even be faster in a straight line but only the Renaultsports are said to give you a true race-car-for-the-road feeling.

What next?

Our Renault Clio Renaultsport or Renault Megane Renaultsport configurators will get you great savings off a brand-new one. Alternatively, visit our new car deals page for brilliant offers or, if you’re struggling to pick a car, our car chooser can help.