A track-focused version of the recently-unveiled Renault Mégane RS 275 Trophy has lapped Germany’s famed Nürburgring Nordschleife track in 7:54:36, setting a new record for a front-wheel drive car. The previous front-drive record was held by the SEAT Leon Cupra 280 that managed to clock a time of 7:58:4 earlier this year.
Called Mégane Trophy-R, the record-setting car is up to 220 pounds lighter than a stock RS 275 thanks to Recaro-built polycarbonate front seats and an optional lithium-ion battery. Renault has also removed the rear wiper and all related hardware, the radio, the A/C unit, the bulk of the sound-deadening material and the rear seats in order to bring the car’s total weight down to 2,821 pounds.
Renault has not made any modifications to the RS 275′s engine, meaning the Trophy-R is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder mill that sends 275 horsepower and 265 lb-ft. of torque to the front wheels via a six-speed manual transmission and a limited-slip differential. Upgraded brakes help bring the hatchback to a stop.
Visually, the Trophy-R stands out with a two-tone paint job, a model-specific front splitter, bespoke graphics and emblems all around as well as 19-inch Speedline Turini wheels painted in either red or black. Alcantara inserts add a discreet premium touch to the cockpit.
The Mégane Trophy-R is scheduled to go on sale across Europe in the coming weeks. Production will be limited to just 250 examples, and pricing information will be published closer to its on-sale date.
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