Renault Megane Renaultsport R26.R news - R26.Rder - 2008

With the Megane soon to be replaced by a younger, sleeker model, we've been hearing rumours of a run-out special Megane Renaultsport R26 for a few months. Today we've finally clapped eyes on it. They call it the R26.R. We like it.

At first glance it doesn't seem to be too much different to the regular Megane Renaultsport 230 R26 upon which it's based, other than a nice set of wheels, some questionable graphics and, oh, a carbon fibre bonnet. Right. Things have gone a little bit hardcore, then.

The roll cage is the biggest first sign of nutterness, and then there's the Toyo R888 tyres. But even without those options, the standard weight stripping is impressive.

They've shaved off 123kg from the standard version, by replacing the rear glass with polycarbonate windows, taking out some sound deadening, removing the rear wiper, some interior trim, the fog lamps and all the airbags other than the driver's.

There's also a pair of carbon-shelled Sabelt seats with six-point harnesses, lighter wheels, a sport gear shift, grooved discs and an optional titanium exhaust (which comes in a nice shade of blue).

Renault is promising a Nurburgring lap record for a front-wheel drive production car of 8m 17s, which should have the Ford boys paying attention with their new RS.

Prices will start at £23k-ish, and we're already rubbing our hands at the prospect of driving it.