2009 RENAULTSPORT MEGANE R26.R

This Renaultsport Megane R26.R is a fine example of the marque’s famed limited-edition hot hatch, presented in a rare factory paint colour and lightly modified to offer even more impressive performance than standard. Under the bonnet is the turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, with front wheel drive via a six-speed manual transmission and a limited-slip differential. The odometer shows 48,194 miles from new.

Based on the sensational R26 model, with its improved Cup chassis, uprated Brembo brakes and sports exhaust system, the R26.R version took weight savings to extreme new levels for a hot hatch. The rear seats and retracting belts were removed, along with the passenger and curtain airbags, heated rear screen, climate control system, headlight washers, stereo system and most of the soundproofing. Its road-holding abilities were then improved with recalibrated shock absorbers and uprated coil springs, making the most of the Megane R26.R’s crash diet.

As if that wasn’t enough, a carbon-fibre bonnet was then fitted, while the rear screen and quarter windows were fabricated from polycarbonate. Finally, the standard Recaro seats were replaced with carbon-fibre bucket seats from Sabelt, and the seat belts were replaced with six-point harnesses.

In total, just 230 of the 450 cars produced were destined for the UK, with this example being number 63 of those 230 cars. First registered in March 2009, it is believed to be one of very few Gris Makaha / Nimbus Grey cars in the UK, and was also specified with gloss black wheels in place of the Capsicum Red items. Furthermore, it was ordered with its air-conditioning system added back in for additional comfort, and an aftermarket stereo/satellite navigation unit has also been fitted.

The car was acquired by the seller just over eight years ago, and has just two previous keepers on the V5C. It has been lightly upgraded with a stainless-steel Milltek exhaust, a short-shift gear linkage and two-piece front brake discs, while its ECU has been remapped by RS Tuning for improved performance.

Today, this lightened Megane’s bodywork remains in excellent condition, with no evidence of prior damage and flush shut lines. The rare Gris Makaha / Nimbus Grey metallic paintwork is also in great shape, and has a smooth appearance. The vendor notes that some of the car’s panels have been resprayed to correct stone chips, and the only blemish noted is a minor scuff on the front bumper. The glossy carbon-fibre bonnet, exterior trim, and signature red decals present very well, and the light lenses are free of any chips or cracks.

This R26.R rides on the correct set of 18-inch ‘Interlagos’ alloy wheels, which are finished with gloss black paintwork, in place of the more commonly-seen Capsicum Red finish. All four present well, however there are some kerb scuffs on the edge of the rear passenger-side item, which would benefit from refurbishment in due course.

On entering the cabin, it becomes clear just how seriously Renaultsport took this R26.R’s lightweight treatment. A pair of black fabric-clad carbon fibre Sabelt bucket seats take pride of place, and are in very good condition, with only a few small blemishes to their surfaces including slight discolouration on the driver’s inner bolster. Behind, a red half-cage takes the place of the rear seats, and provides a mounting point for the car’s six-point harnesses, which remain in great shape – though their buckles have rubbed on the seats’ mounting brackets, causing some minor blemishes to the black paintwork. Both the steering wheel and gear knob are impressively free of any marks or damage, and the black carpets are also in good condition, having been protected by a set of over mats.

This R26.R’s comfort and everyday usability are enhanced by a factory-fitted air-conditioning system, while an aftermarket Pioneer infotainment system has also been added, which also offers Apple CarPlay integration. All of the interior buttons, switches and electrical items work as they should, and there are no warning lights displayed on the dashboard.

Supplied in very good mechanical order, this modern hot hatch’s most recent routine maintenance was a minor service, which was carried out in May 2019, while an oil change was performed in March 2018. The seller also notes that the car’s cambelt has been changed in the past, though they are unsure as to when this was done and the invoice is sadly missing.

During the vendor’s ownership, this Megane’s clutch assembly and coil packs have been replaced, and the car has been enhanced with a number of discreet performance modifications, including the Milltek exhaust system, a lighter single-mass flywheel, a K-Tec short-shift gear linkage, two-piece front brake discs and an engine oil cooler, and the RS Tuning ECU remap.

Its latest MOT test was conducted on 10 June 2020 at 47,661 miles, resulting in a clean, first-time pass. All four wheels are fitted with Toyo R888R tyres, which are in good condition and have around 3mm of usable tread remaining.

This Gallic performance star will be accompanied by its complete service book and handbooks, as well as a selection of invoices for past services and modifications.

This Renaultsport Megane R26.R is a modern hot hatch hero, which has been enjoyed by its current owner as intended, and is finished in a rare factory. Featuring factory-fitted air-conditioning, an aftermarket infotainment unit and a number of mild performance modifications, it offers both lightweight thrills and some useful mod-cons in a thoroughly rewarding package, and is ready to impress its next owner on road and track alike.

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