The Mégane R.S. Trophy-R has set a new front-wheel drive lap record at the legendary Spa-Francorchamps circuit, recording a time of 2’48’’338 (more than 5s better than the previous record). This successful attempt comes only weeks after the Mégane R.S. Trophy broke the same category lap record at the fearsome Nurburgring. As ever, Renault Sport test driver and engineer Laurent Hurgon was behind the wheel for the record-breaking run.
Commenting on the incredible success, Patrice Ratti, Renault Sport Cars General Manager, said: “The new Mégane R.S. Trophy-R has set a new record in its category at one of the most demanding circuits in the world. This performance and the closeness between the driver at work and the beautiful sharing of information and passion: this is the attitude that permeates the development of our cars.”
Test driver Laurent Hurgon has set numerous speed records in various generations of Renault Sport model, including many successes at the Nurburgring. “I am, once again, really proud and delighted,” explained Hurgon after the record-breaking lap. “Spa-Francorchamps is one the most exciting circuits in Europe for drivers. It is very fast and complex and the car is perfect for this configuration. The work done on the aerodynamic balance takes all its value. The sensations in the Raidillon, Pouhon and Blanchimont corners are really excellent. What a pleasure!”
Continuing a long tradition for Renault Sport, the Mégane R.S. Trophy-R owes its performance to a focus on three key pillars: weight reduction, aerodynamics and suspension. Limited to just 500 examples globally, the Mégane R.S. Trophy-R is around 130kg lighter than standard Mégane R.S. Trophy (excluding options) thanks to a radical weight-weight-saving programme, plus it features a redesigned undertray and more aggressive rear splitter that generates greater downforce. Finally, the overhauled suspension benefits from more negative camber at the front, a bespoke H pattern rear axle and Ohlins two-way adjustable dampers. Power is provided by the 300 PS turbocharged 1.8-litre four-cylinder that drives the front wheels through a six-speed manual gearbox and Torsen limited slip differential.