The Renault Sport Mégane Trophy 265 is here — and it's got even more power than before.

This limited-edition version of the Mégane RS heralds the introduction of a more powerful engine to the entire Mégane RS line-up.

With limited units on offer, the Trophy 265 is also set to become the most exclusive, and desirable, Mégane RS ever.

"The Mégane Renault Sport has earned numerous accolades the world over for its superior sporting credentials, and the exciting new Mégane RS Trophy takes this to even greater heights," says Fabien Payzan, marketing vice-president of Renault South Africa.

"It confidently takes over the mantle as the most aspirational member of the RenaultSport range to date, and will certainly appeal to enthusiast drivers that demand the very best. At the same time, it previews the enhanced dynamics that will be available to buyers of the new-generation Mégane RS Sport and Cup 265 models."

At the heart of the new flagship RS model is a reworked version of the 2.0-litre 16-valve engine. In Trophy specification, the standard car's 184kW power peak is raised to 195kW at 5500rpm.

Similarly, the maximum torque climbs from 340 to 360Nm, available between 3000 and 5000rpm. The gains are primarily achieved by means of a higher boost pressure of 2.5 bar and a new air intake design.

Despite the increased performance, the uprated specification for the RS Trophy 265 allows for greater efficiency and reduced fuel consumption compared to the standard Mégane RS 250, which was launched in 2010.

The new engine makes its debut in the limited-edition RS Trophy 265, but will become available across the regular Mégane RS range, including the Sport and Cup models, in the very near future.

In order to maximise its dynamic talents, the Mégane RS Trophy 265 is equipped with the performance-oriented Cup chassis as standard, matched to a limited slip differential for improved traction.

The Trophy also benefits from the fitment of Formula One-inspired Bridgestone Potenza RE050A asymmetric 19-inch tyres. These are unique to the Trophy, and boast a directional tread pattern with specially developed tread blocks to provide outstanding grip, stability and acoustic comfort.

The 0-100 km/h sprint is taken care of in 6 seconds, and a top speed of 254km/h.

Visually, the RS Trophy 265 is instantly recognisable by its extensive "Red Line" detailing and specific decals. It also sports a new rear lip spoiler, 19-inch gloss black STEEV wheels with red piping, RS valve caps and a numbered plaque.

Striking LED daytime running lights incorporated into the F1-style front blade also distinguish this new model. These and some of the Trophy's aerodynamic aids will also be introduced to the new-generation RS Cup model when it becomes available later this year.

Additional unique features of the RS Trophy 265 are the exclusive new Sirius Yellow metallic paint colour, as well as the standard fitment of Xenon headlights. The RS Trophy 265 is also available in the other, established Mégane RS colours: Glacier White, Etoile Black and Cassiopeia Grey hues.

Inside, leather-clad Recaro bucket seats add a sporty feel, complemented by eye-catching contrasting stitching on the upholstery, steering wheel and gear lever gaiter. The RS Monitor is incorporated in the central display and provides a range of performance-oriented data for the driver.

Renault claims a combined-cycle fuel consumption figure of 8.2 litres per 100km, equivalent to 190g of CO2/km.

Pricing:

Mégane RS Sport: R359 900
Mégane RS Cup: R399 900
Mégane RS Trophy: R409 900