Say Hello To The 'Ring-Ready Renaultsport Megane 275 Trophy

Renault has been teasing an even hotter version of the Megane 265 for a few weeks now, but at last, it's here. The motivation for a new halo Megane stems from the 265's front-wheel drive Nurburgring record, which was recently pilfered by Seat with its Leon Cupra 280.

With the 275, Renault might just be able to steal that back. As you've probably gathered from the name, the car's turbocharged 2.0-litre engine has received a 10hp boost to bring the total power output to 275hp (271bhp). It'll sound good too, thanks to its new Akraprovic exhaust tail pipe.

It comes with the Cup chassis pack as standard, and a limited-slip differential to effectively put all that power through the front wheels. Öhlins Road & Track dampers and bespoke Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres are optional meanwhile - and will no doubt be specced on the car used for the Nurburgring record attempt.

Inside, you get a set of leather and Alcantara Recaro seats with red stitching, and an alloy gear knob.

Pricing for the 275 will be confirmed next month, with the first deliveries taking place in October. And judging by the message "#UNDER8… Find out more on June 16" we're given in the press release, June is also when we can expect to hear whether or not Renault has been successful in taking the front-wheel drive Nurburgring crown back from Seat.