 |
||
|
27/03/2008 11:42 AM - (SA) Renault raises the bar 28-03-2008
Renault, like many French vehicle manufacturers represented in South Africa, have not had an easy time in the last couple of years and have seen a marked reduction in sales. Renault and Gobille are determined to put that to rights with the introduction of several new models. Those of you who read my impressions on the Renault 2.0T CC last week will no doubt have noted that there were a few areas that I found, in my opinion a little below par. But this week I am glad to say I have experienced what I believe we should expect from the French manufacturer, the Renault Megane GT. Produced in Renault's Palencia plant in Spain, the GT replaces the previous five door hatch Megane 2.0 Dynamique. But don't let that GT badging fool you this one is not a "boy racer" but offers a good helping of response, tractability and motoring pleasure if you're looking for a sportier version then the RS and R26 models are the ones for you. The GT has benefited from an extensive chassis development programme which has emphasised body support and front axle efficiency, but without compromising vertical damping ability which allows smooth ride characteristics. The result is a suspension set-up that offers the best of both worlds: taut responses to even vigorous driver input, but still delivers a smooth and comfortable ride. The GT's suspension has been lowered by 10 mm, while the front and rear spring rates are 24 percent stiffer. Damping has been stiffened, enabling the vehicle to cope with increased stresses and cornering forces associated with the increased performance, but still retaining a high level of comfort. The electric power steering system has also been upgraded to deliver precise and responsive steering. It may be a GT but one of the things I like is the almost "street sleeper" aspect. Sure it has an aerodynamic package consisting of a bumper with an integrated, lower front air dam, extended sills, rear spoiler and a set of 16' dark metallic finish alloy wheels. But apart from these and the lower stance the only give away is the rear apron which features twin, centrally mounted exhaust tailpipes with a dark metallic surround which carries an embossed GT logo. The interior has a distinctly sporty theme, leather covered (optional) supportive bucket seats and a thick-rimmed, leather-covered steering wheel featuring the GT logo. Stippled stainless steel paint finishes on the central dash panel, glove compartment trim and interior door handles, compliments the binnacle mounted instruments which feature a blue-grey background. The pedals and footrest are finished in aluminium, but that's my one gripe, it's the same cheap looking finish as the Megane CC, better quality aluminium would look so much nicer. The new Megane GT is powered by a 2.0-litre, turbocharged engine with a power output of 120 kW at 5?000 rpm, and torque of 270 Nm at 3?250 rpm. The four-cylinder, twin-cam power unit drives through the front wheels via a six-speed manual gearbox. The 0/100 km time is claimed at 8.3 seconds and top speed at 220 km/h. Engine mapping has been programmed to deliver linear power and high torque output, giving a flat torque curve to ensure that power is available from low engine speeds. It's actually hard to believe that the GT is based on the same platform as the Megane CC the characteristics are so different, no longer the indifferent handling and vague steering, this is in another class. The chassis dynamics are amazing and with steering that allows you to place the car wherever you want quickly, it makes the Megane GT a very enjoyable car. Tight bends or long sweeps on both the smooth and the rough did not upset the balance at all, the GT keeping its feet firmly planted. The engine delivers an amazingly progressive surge of power, it's not the kick in the pants type of acceleration, rather one that smoothly rushes you towards the area where you would start to get letters and photos of yourself from the local traffic authority. The gearbox was positive and the ratios well suited to the output of the motor. What's even more incredible is that the Megane GT for all its performance aspect is very, very comfortable and would certainly allow long journeys to be undertaken with no qualms about battered kidneys that you receive from most sport suspension set ups. All in all, the new Renault Megane GT is a great package that will please many a jaded motorist, its capable of making your daily mileage a lot of fun! If this and the projected Laguna, seen at the Geneva Motor Show are indicators of Renaults revival, then they definitely are on the right track! The Renault Megane GT is priced at R220 000 including a five year/150 000 km warranty and 60 000km full maintenance plan.
|
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
