Auto For Speed

It’s only three years old, but it’s apparently time for the Renault Koleos compact SUV to receive its first facelift. The changes include an exterior makeover and new interior trim, plus noticeable CO2 and fuel consumption savings in the case of the crossover model’s range of diesel powerplants.

The first thing you’ll notice on the updated model is the brand new fascia, evidently inspired by the newly launched Latitude sedan, which like the Koleos, is the product of Renault Samsung Motors in Busan, South Korea.

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With the Italians still trying to find their way and the Japanese being limited for now to the Mazda3 MPS, it’s up to the French to question the German leadership in the upper range of the hot hatchback segment. Now, Renault is raising the stakes with the presentation of a hotter version of its RenaultSport Mégane boasting more power under its hood.

The Mégane RS Trophy is a special edition version of the standard model with a limited production run of 500 cars. Renault is quick to note that the Trophy is not a successor to the hardcore R26R, which leaves the door open to a more extreme variant in the near future.

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Finally, the smallest Z.E. at Renault is reaching the UK, as the automaker announced that customers are able to make online reservations for the Twizy range starting from today. This can be done at the following link, with a GBP20 deposit required via a secure online payment module.

UK pricing for the Twizy start at GBP6,690 on-the-road for the Urban version, while in higher specification Technic trim it will cost GBP7,400. The monthly battery lease cost for both versions (each powered by a 17 hp motor) will be GBP40 including VAT for a 36 month/4,800 miles per year agreement.

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Renault has released details of the special edition Renault Megane RS N4 – a Group N tarmac rally package for private pilots and trainers.

The N4 comes with a slight power boost over the standard RS model, featuring a 2.0 liter turbocharged engine producing 270 PS (266 bhp / 199 kW) and 470 Nm of torque – series is 250 PS (247 bhp / 184 kW) and 340 Nm.

The suspension gets a “Cup” upgrade by a collaboration between Renault and Swedish suspension specialist Öhlins. There’s also a roll bar and Sabelt racing seats with a 6-point harness.

Larger disc brakes are also part of the special edition package, fitting 355mm discs and 4-piston Brembo calipers to the front and 290mm ones for the rear wheels. The N4 features a limited-slip differential.

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Renault’s sporting unit, Renaultsport, is about to debut their reinforced version of the Megane at this seasons’s Geneva auto show in March. As with any hot-hatch, the new Renaultsport Megane will have unique styling that may stress the auto’s sporting ability. Read the rest of this entry »