The Renault Megane IV Phase II RS 1.8 (300 Hp) FAP is a high-performance hatchback produced by the French manufacturer Renault between May 2020 and January 2021. This model represents a focused iteration of the fourth-generation Megane, specifically designed for enthusiasts seeking a dynamic driving experience. While the Megane has been a mainstay in Renault’s lineup for decades, the RS (Renault Sport) variants have consistently delivered a compelling blend of practicality and performance. This particular version, with its 1.8-liter turbocharged engine, aimed to compete with established hot hatches like the Volkswagen Golf GTI and Ford Focus ST, primarily within the European market. The “FAP” designation indicates the inclusion of a particulate filter, reflecting increasingly stringent European emissions regulations.
Renault Megane IV RS: A Performance Hatchback
The Megane RS occupies the compact hot hatch segment, offering a more aggressive and sporty alternative to the standard Megane. The Phase II update brought refinements to both the exterior styling and interior technology, further enhancing the car’s appeal. It’s important to note that the Megane, in its various iterations, wasn’t widely sold in the United States. However, its engineering and performance characteristics are representative of the sophisticated hot hatchbacks popular in Europe and other global markets.
Engine & Performance
At the heart of the Megane IV RS 1.8 (300 Hp) FAP lies a 1.8-liter inline-four cylinder engine, turbocharged and direct-injected. This engine produces a maximum power output of 300 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 390 Nm (287.65 lb.-ft.) of torque at 3200 rpm. The engine’s specific output is impressive, delivering 166.9 horsepower per liter. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a six-speed manual transmission. This configuration allows for a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 5.7 seconds, and a 0-60 mph time of approximately 5.4 seconds. The car boasts a top speed of 260 km/h (161.56 mph). The inclusion of a particulate filter (FAP) is a key feature, designed to reduce emissions and meet Euro 6d-Temp EVAP standards. The engine’s transverse mounting and turbocharger with intercooler contribute to its compact size and efficient power delivery.
Design & Features
The Megane IV RS is a five-door hatchback with a sporty aesthetic. Key design elements include a more aggressive front bumper with larger air intakes, flared wheel arches, a rear diffuser, and a prominent rear spoiler. These modifications not only enhance the car’s visual appeal but also contribute to improved aerodynamics and cooling. The interior features sport seats, aluminum pedals, and Renault Sport-specific trim. Safety features include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and other standard electronic stability controls. The car’s kerb weight ranges from 1334 to 1405 kg (2940.97 – 3097.49 lbs.), contributing to its agile handling. Practicality is maintained with a trunk (boot) space of 294 liters (10.38 cu. ft.).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Renault |
| Model | Megane |
| Generation | Megane IV (Phase II, 2020) |
| Type (Engine) | RS 1.8 (300 Hp) FAP |
| Start of production | May, 2020 |
| End of production | January, 2021 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 8.0-8.3 l/100 km |
| Combined fuel consumption (US mpg) | 29.4 – 28.3 |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 182-187 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.70 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.70 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 260 km/h (161.56 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d-Temp EVAP |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4.4 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.4 kg/Nm |
| Power | 300 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 166.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 390 Nm @ 3200 rpm (287.65 lb.-ft. @ 3200 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | M5P 404 |
| Engine displacement | 1798 cm3 (109.72 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 79.7 mm (3.14 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 90.1 mm (3.55 in.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.2 l (4.44 US qt | 3.7 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 9.4 l (9.93 US qt | 8.27 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1334-1405 kg (2940.97 – 3097.49 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1905 kg (4199.81 lbs.) |
| Max load | 500-571 kg (1102.31 – 1258.84 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 294 l (10.38 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 80 kg (176.37 lbs.) |
| Length | 4364 mm (171.81 in.) |
| Width | 1875 mm (73.82 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2058 mm (81.02 in.) |
| Height | 1428-1435 mm (56.22 – 56.5 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2672 mm (105.2 in.) |
| Front track | 1631 mm (64.21 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1609 mm (63.35 in.) |
| Front overhang | 922 mm (36.3 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 769 mm (30.28 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 101 mm (3.98 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.2 m (36.75 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Tires size | 235/40 R18; 245/35 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 18; 19 |
The Renault Megane IV RS 1.8 (300 Hp) FAP represents a compelling offering in the hot hatch segment, blending performance, practicality, and a sporty driving experience. While not officially sold in the US, it exemplifies the engineering prowess and design sensibilities of European performance vehicles.
