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

VW Golf GTI Edition 50 v Toyota GR Yaris Aero v Honda Civic Type R: hot hatch stars go head-to-head
Golf GTI v GR Yaris Aero v Civic Type R
Group tests

VW Golf GTI Edition 50 v Toyota GR Yaris Aero v Honda Civic Type R: hot hatch stars go head-to-head

Volkswagen and Toyota have just released the best versions yet of the GR Yaris and Mk8 Golf GTI. Does either have what it takes to overcome the brilli…
2 Aug 2026
I put budget tyres to the test in the wet, and the results were terrifying
Cheap tyres
Opinion

I put budget tyres to the test in the wet, and the results were terrifying

Skimping on tyres may save you a few pounds, but at what cost, ponders Barker
30 Jul 2026
Maserati Grecale Modena review – an SUV with a supercar engine to replace your Porsche Macan
Maserati Grecale Modena
Reviews

Maserati Grecale Modena review – an SUV with a supercar engine to replace your Porsche Macan

The MCPura supercar engine with 240bhp less in a Macan-sized SUV from £85k sounds pretty appealing. Is it?
31 Jul 2026