2017 Frankfurt Motor Show: Renault Megane RS and Symbioz

Words: Shubham Choukse

Renault has extended its hot-hatch line up in Europe with the introducion of the all-new track inspired Megane RS. The model unveiled at the 2017 Frankfurt Motor Show marks the third generation of the Megane RS.

Powering the car is a new 1.8-litre turbo charged 4-cylider petrol engine that pumps out 276bhp of power and 390Nm of Torque. Choice of transmission includes a six-speed manual gearbox or six-speed EDC dual clutch transmission with steering wheel-mounted paddle-shifters. Renault claims that the new Megane RS takes heavy inspiration from motorsports and gets some very distinctive features such as the 4Control four-wheel steering system and independent steering axis front suspension.

On the design front it features large air dams, angular headlamps with LEDs and projector, sculpted bonnet, wider tracks, bumper and wings, and a new orange color.

“Performance is the chief reason our customers cite for purchasing the Megane R S and the all-new Megane RS takes the styling and technologies even further to deliver truly exceptional driving enjoyment. Our intention is to see the new car, with its chassis and 4Control, remain the C-segment hot hatch benchmark,” said Patrice Ratti, General Manager, Renault Sport Cars.

Renault also gave us a glimpse of how it envisions the future via its SYMBIOZ autonomous and connected-car connected-home technology.  Symbioz showcases an Electric, autonomous and connected car technology which will be fully integrated into the human ecosystem. It actively explores the future of mobility and offers a completely new travelling experience with features, technology and design that interacts with the customer’s ecosystem, it features a clear glass cabin and retractable steering and pedals that can be adjusted according to the users need.

It will feature a 500KW electric motor that can be fully charged in just 1-hour. The car will have a range of 500Km and will be able to accelerate from 0 to 100kmph in just 6 seconds.

“The way we use our cars is changing. Already a car is more than just a way to get from one place to another. Full of technology, it’s becoming an interactive and personalized space that connects passengers to other cars, people and objects around them. Looking to 2030 we imagine new scenarios with more efficient energy use, connectivity and autonomous driving scenarios that will improve how we live and travel,” said Thierry Bolloré, Chief Competitive Officer, Renault Group.

Along with the Symbioz concept car, Renault also showcased the electric house concept, which is specifically designed for the car. The car can be parked inside the house and works as an extension to the house.