Renault has expanded its range of performance models with the introduction of GT 220 versions of the Mégane Hatch, Coupé and Sport Tourer.
The GT 220 is based on the Megane GT Line TomTom, but delivers up to twice as much horsepower and has even more dynamic driving characteristics thanks to stiffer springs and dampers and larger front brake discs from Renaultsport.
The GT220 is powered by a 2.0-litre 16-valve turbocharged engine that develops (yes you guessed it 220 hp) and 340 Nm of torque, which is delivered to the front wheels via a “slick-shifting six-speed manual transmission”. The GT 220 has a 0-62 mph time of 7.6 seconds and will run out of puff at 149 mph. According to Renault, the car will deliver in terms of economy and efficiency too, with Stop & Start technology as standard; the GT 220 will return 38.7 mpg on the combined test cycle, with CO2 emissions of 169 g/km.
The Renaultsport-tuned chassis on the GT 220 includes specific front and rear dampers that use the calibration and valving based on those used on Mégane Renaultsport. From its more powerful sibling, the GT 220 also uses the same rear bump stops. The steering calibration differs to that of the mainstream Mégane to take into account the GT 220 versions’ specific tyres and chassis settings – 18-inch ‘Serdard’ alloy wheels that are fitted with 225/40R18 Dunlop Sport Maxx TT tyres.
Stopping power is provided by ventilated 320 mm front discs (up from 280 mm on GT Line) and 260 mm solid rear brake discs together with firmer, more progressive servo-assistance thanks to the fitment of the Mégane Renaultsport’s master cylinder. The GT 220 also features Renault’s Anti-Skid Regulation (ASR) and Understeer Logic Control (UCL) advanced driver aid systems, plus ABS anti-lock brakes with EBD emergency brake assist.
In terms of appearance, a special GT bumper design has been added, with a reshaped central air intake and an integral gloss black cross bar that carries the number plate. At the rear, the bumper has a lower section which incorporates an anthracite-coloured aerodynamic diffuser. The specification and colour choices for the GT 220 mirror what is available with the GT Line models, including the option of bespoke Malta Blue paintwork with anthracite grey and polished detailing.
The interior has clearly been influenced by Renaultsport with its sports seats and upholstery, a thick leather-rimmed steering wheel with thumb indents and stitching detail, as well as analogue dials and aluminium pedals. The interior door handle pulls, outer air vent surrounds and the dashboard have been finished in polished carbon.
Standard equipment includes dual-zone climate control, cruise control, speed limiter, automatic headlights and windscreen wipers, LED daytime running lights, fully integrated Renault R-Link satellite navigation, Bluetooth, a USB connection, a rear parking camera and an uprated Arkamys 3D sound system.
When it comes to the standard equipment list the GT220 doesn’t disappoint, boasting a host of features that include dual-zone climate control, cruise control, speed limiter, automatic headlights and windscreen wipers, LED daytime running lights, fully integrated Renault R-Link satellite navigation, Bluetooth, a USB connection, a rear parking camera and an uprated Arkamys 3D sound system.
So how much will this ‘entry level’ sporting hatch cost?
Prices are as follows: the Hatch starts from £23,245, the Coupé from £24,230 and the Sport Tourer from £24,245.
The car comes with a four year or 100,000 miles warranty (first two years unlimited mileage). There is also a three-year paint warranty and 12 years’ cover against corrosion.
