Why are we driving it?

The high-performance Megane RS is one of the best driver's cars on sale, though it won't be around for much longer.

The current RS is based on the brand's third-generation Megane hatchback, and it's closing in on retirement having been on sale in various forms since 2010.

While Renault has replaced regular models with a new, fourth-generation Megane hatchback and wagon, we haven't seen the next RS performance version yet, and this current three-door is likely to continue into 2017.

Expected to go on sale with a practical five-door body and dual-clutch automatic transmission, the next-gen Megane RS is likely to be a very different proposition to the current machine.

The Renault Megane RS 275 is one of the most focused hot hatches on the market. Photo: Supplied

What we like:

Few cars possess the focus of Renault's tuned Megane. Tuned for performance rather than comfort, it has excellent poise and traction thanks to well-sorted suspension, sticky tyres and a limited-slip front differential and power to burn with 201kW and 360Nm on tap.

Drivers of this Cup Premium model benefit from 19-inch wheels, Brembo brakes, grippy Recaro seats, a suede steering wheel and clever "RS Monitor" infotainment screen that provides useful information ranging from G-force and temperature readouts to lap times and track driving tips.

It remains brilliant to drive, with sharp reactions and fine body control that encourage you to press on when the mood strikes on road or track.

The Renault Megane RS 275 is one of the most focused hot hatches on the market. Photo: Supplied

Fast drives in the Megane are a sensory feast – from its steering feel and mechanical transmission to the chirp of its gearshift alarm and the rolling applause of its Akrapovic exhaust, there's no questioning this car's character.

While French cars have a mixed reputation from a reliability and servicing standpoint, the Megane's proven hardware, capped price servicing and five-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty with roadside assistance provide peace of mind.

What we dislike:

The Megane isn't cheap, particularly when you consider upcoming rivals such as Ford's $50,900 Focus RS that offer more performance for a sharper price.

It doesn't help that the Megane's shape and fundamental mechanical elements have not changed in the last six years, which makes second-hand examples for less than $20,000 look like particularly strong value.

There are ergonomic niggles throughout the cabin, and you have to turn off traction control to gain access to all of its power.

While many drivers will appreciate the involvement of its manual transmission, the lack of an automatic transmission option will scrub it off some shopping lists.

Inside the Megane Cup Premium. Photo: Supplied

It's not an easy car to live with day-to-day, with a rough ride, sharp clutch pickup point and long doors that are impractical in tight spaces.

The older nature of the Megane's hardware means it also misses out on driver aids such as autonomous emergency braking or lane keeping assistance.

Would we buy it?

Absolutely. The Megane RS is a fine antidote to conservative and lifeless commuter cars. Like Mitsubishi's discontinued Lancer Evolution, the Megane is not a prospect for all drivers, but it is worth consideration for people who put driver involvement as their top priority.

2016 Renault Megane RS 275 Cup Premium pricing and specifications

Price: $53,000 plus on-road costs

Engine: 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo petrol

Power: 201kW at 5500rpm

Torque: 360Nm at 3000rpm

Transmission: Six-speed manual, front-wheel drive

Fuel use: 7.5L/110km

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