Renault Megane R26.R
The hardcore, Nürburgring-slaying icon that redefined the front-wheel-drive performance benchmark.
- Power
- 230 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 5.9 s
- Top speed
- 147 mph
- Est. value
- $38k–$65k
About the Renault Megane R26.R
The R26.R is a radical, track-focused evolution of the Megane RS, famously shedding 123kg through the removal of rear seats, soundproofing, and airbags. It features a carbon-fibre bonnet, polycarbonate rear windows, and a stiffened Cup chassis with a mechanical limited-slip differential. In 2008, it set a production front-wheel-drive lap record at the Nürburgring Nordschleife with a time of 8:17. Drivers prize it for its uncompromising agility, communicative steering, and raw, visceral connection to the road.
Renault Megane R26.R specs
The Renault Megane R26.R produces 230 bhp (172 kW) and 310 Nm (229 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 5.9 seconds and has a top speed of 147 mph (237 km/h).
| Make | Renault |
|---|---|
| Model | Megane R26.R |
| Trim | R26.R |
| Years | 2008–2009 |
| Type | Sports car |
| Body style | Hatchback |
| Country | France |
| Production | About 450 built |
| Engine | 2.0-litre turbocharged inline-four |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,998 cc (2.0 litres) |
| Induction | Turbocharged |
| Power | 230 bhp (172 kW) at 5,500 rpm |
| Torque | 310 Nm (229 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,500 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 5.9 s |
| Top speed | 147 mph (237 km/h) |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,230 kg (2,712 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 187 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Renault Megane R26.R worth?
A typical Renault Megane R26.R is estimated to be worth $38,000 – $65,000 (about £28,000 – £48,000).
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Renault Megane R26.R rarity in CarSpot
The Renault Megane R26.R is a Unicorn card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 100 out of 100. The rarest tier: hypercars, one-offs and cars built in tiny numbers, typically fewer than about 500. A Unicorn card is worth 320 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Renault Megane R26.R fun facts
- The R26.R was the first production car to be homologated with six-point Sabelt racing harnesses as the primary restraint system.
- To commemorate its Nürburgring record, the circuit outline and the 8:17 lap time are etched into the polycarbonate rear side windows.
- Despite its legendary status, Renault struggled to sell the full UK allocation of 230 cars at launch due to its extreme, stripped-out nature.
