Skip advert
Advertisement

Subaru BRZ v Renaultsport Megane Trophy track test video

It's Subaru BRZ versus Renaultsport Megane 265 Trophy, rear-drive versus front-drive, in our latest track test video

The Subaru BRZ could represent the company’s second coming; a naturally aspirated, rear-wheel drive coupe that’s one of 2012’s most eagerly anticipated cars. Trouble is, its £24,995 UK price tag throws it into a lion’s den of very talented rivals, not least our favourite big hot hatchback, the Renaultsport Megane 265 Trophy. Can the BRZ hope to compete? We pit them against each other on track, as they go head to head at the Bedford Autodrome.

Advertisement - Article continues below

The Subaru’s 2-litre flat-four engine serves up 197bhp and 151lb ft, enough for a 7.6sec 0-62mph time and 143mph top speed. The Renault’s 2-litre turbo unit boasts bigger outputs, though – 261bhp and 265lb ft – endowing it with much better performance figures, 0-62mph taking 6.0sec on the way to a 158mph top speed.

Sounds like a walkover for the Megane, but with its rear-drive chassis and significantly lower kerb weight (1202kg playing 1387kg), the BRZ could have the advantage on track. We find out in the video below.

Read the full story and see more pictures in evo issue 170, on sale now

Skip advert
Advertisement
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

Peugeot’s new petrol engine swaps belts for chains to improve reliability
Peugeot Turbo 100
News

Peugeot’s new petrol engine swaps belts for chains to improve reliability

New engine isn’t performance-oriented but does address some reliability issues around so-called ‘wet belts’, swapping them out altogether for chains
16 Mar 2026
Car makers are U-turning on EVs but car buyers are going to pay the price
Plug-in hybrid Lamborghini
Opinion

Car makers are U-turning on EVs but car buyers are going to pay the price

While the combustion engines we love have a stay of execution, the future won't be all sunshine and rainbows for car enthusiasts
17 Mar 2026
Four hyper hatches for two-thirds less than the new £92k Audi RS3 Competition
Used hyper hatches
News

Four hyper hatches for two-thirds less than the new £92k Audi RS3 Competition

Whatever happened to accessible hot hatchbacks? Nevermind the £92k Audi RS3 Competition, buy these instead
19 Mar 2026