Renault Megane RS 2018 spotted hot-lapping Nurburgring

Renault has ramped up preparations for its fourth-generation Megane RS, with two prototypes of the forthcoming hot hatch caught lapping the infamous Nurburgring circuit in Germany.

These latest spy shots reveal several details not yet unveiled by the French carmaker, of which the most significant is apparent confirmation that the five-door RS will feature – at least optionally – four-wheel steering (4WS).

A quick look at the development mule's gloss-black B-pillar reveals a subtle '4Control' badge, a moniker Renault has seemingly chosen for its in-house derivative of the handling-focused technology.

Given the spiciest Megane is expected to retain a front-wheel drive (FWD) set-up, 4WS will allow for sharper and more direct turn-in when cornering. This feature is standard equipment for the Megane GT that went on sale locally in October last year.

Furthermore, Brembo has developed the range-topper's braking system, with branded front calipers visible while tucked behind the engineering vehicle's 10-spoke alloy wheels.

Last month, the brand released its own set of camouflaged pre-production RS images to celebrate the Monaco Grand Prix. Additionally, a disguised version of the new model was also showcased at the event.

Comparisons between these sets of shots show an abundance of similarities including the prominent rear diffuser with large centrally mounted exhaust, as well as Renault Sport-themed fog lights.

On the same race weekend, Renault confirmed its performance halo is set to again be offered with a manual gearbox, while an efficient dual-clutch (EDC) automatic transmission will, for the first time, also be available with this model.

This news comes as welcome relief for enthusiasts given the manufacturer's smaller hot hatch, the Clio RS, eschewed a three-pedal set-up for its latest generation. Both options in the Megane should come with six ratios.

However, the exact powertrain that will be used remains up in the air, with rumours growing even stronger that the 1.8-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol unit from the Alpine A110 will be found underneath the RS' bonnet.

Currently, this engine produces 188kW/320Nm in the lightweight sports car, but the Megane's power output is anticipated to rise to at least 221kW.

Comparatively, the current-gen model has 2.0-litre turbo-petrol four that punches out as much as 202kW/360Nm in RS275 Cup Trophy form.

Renault will be keen to wrestle back its former title of quickest FWD production car around the Nurburgring, with Honda's Civic Type R rival currently owning the bragging rights thanks to its 7:43.8 lap time.

A public debut for the Megane RS is said to be set for the Frankfurt motor show in September, with European deliveries likely to commence before the end of this year.

Meanwhile, an Australian launch could be shaping up for as soon as the first half of 2018.

Will Renault be able to regain the 'King of the 'Ring' title with its next-gen Megane RS? Tell us what you think in the comments below.