Renaultsport Megane R26

[Ed Doe]

Got talking to a guy in Scarborough today at a little cruise that was going on, he had one of these, same colour as Eds and believe it or not he let me have a go!

My verdict, stupidly quick with a map, unbelievable amounts of grip and very nimble for what is quite a big car, but steering felt a bit dead compared to most Peugeots, ride was very hard for a car that wasn't lowered, and it doesn't like bumps mid-corner. Very, very quick though, the mid-range torque is hugely impressive!

Not for me though.

The steering is something to get used to. As Ruan keeps saying, the 306 came with an unbelievable steering set up in terms of feel, which is mainly what we all like; it tells you EXACTLY what's going on at all times. The downside to this is you go in any other car and it's unlikely to feel as communicative... Don't get me wrong, there'll be cars out there with as much feel as a 306 but they're pretty few and far between.

The meg also has Electric power assisted steering. It's variable load (lighter at lower speeds), and that does take a bit of getting used to, but it's actually not a bad set up at all when you've worked it out. I find mine is still very communicative considering the assistance!

They are rather good fun though
And the fact they are easy to provoke into loos is great!