The recently introduced Renault Mégane range has gained a new flagship model with the launch of the GT dCi 165 Auto EDC. Available in both hatchback and Sport Tourer bodystyles, Renault says the new twin-turbo engine is the most powerful 1.6-litre diesel available on the market today with power and torque outputs of 163 BHP and 280 ft lb respectively.

The latest addition to the GT range was developed and engineered by Renault Sport, and Renault says the GT dCi 165 Auto EDC is aimed at drivers who like to access torque at low revs for enjoyable performance in all conditions. It is mated to Renault’s six-speed Efficient Dual-Clutch (EDC) gearbox.

The GT dCi 165 Auto EDC is capable of 0-62mph in 8.8 seconds with a top speed of 133mph, yet still returns NEDC combined-cycle fuel consumption of 61.4mpg and CO₂ of 120g/km. The figures for the Sport Tourer are 8.9sec, 133mph, 61.4mpg and 124g/km respectively.

Renault says the GT dCi 165 Auto EDC’s performance enables drivers to make the most of its Renault Sport-developed suspension and 4Control chassis with four-wheel steering for a safe but dynamic experience on twisty roads.

At speeds of less than 50mph in Sport mode and 37mph in other modes the front and rear wheels turn in opposite directions, by up to 2.7 degrees at the back, giving the GT the manoeuvrability of a shorter-wheelbase vehicle. At higher speeds the front and rear wheels steer in the same direction, turning by up to 1 degree at the back, for greater stability. 4Control calculates the angle of the rear wheels 100 times a second and adjusts them as necessary.

Ride comfort and handling has been enhanced thanks to specific springs, dampers and anti-roll bar settings by Renault Sport.

Exterior and interior enhancements are designed to give the GT a more sporty and dynamic appearance. At the front, a wider lower air intake with a honeycomb-pattern mesh is flanked by lateral scoops. Dark metal, diamond cut 18-inch alloy wheels and door mirror housings match the finish on the front air scoops and rear diffuser. Iron Blue metallic body colour is exclusive to the GT & GT Line range at £645.

Inside, the GT’s sports front seats feature additional lateral support to the base and backrest and integral headrests, blue top-stitching and a chequered logo. The upholstery options – in fabric or Alcantara – provide hints of blue, whilst the steering wheel is leather.  The GT features an auto-dimming rearview mirror and chrome door sill plates with the Renaultsport logo.

The use of the Alliance CMF platform to manufacture the All-New Renault Mégane means a range of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) are available to improve safety. Standard equipment for the GT Nav includes the Visio system (lane departure warning, traffic sign recognition, automatic high/low beam), Electronic Stability Control (ESC) with traction and understeer control, ABS with Electronic Brake-force Distribution, Hill Start Assist (HSA), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), speed limiter, and automatic headlights and windscreen wipers.

Equipment includes a hands-free keycard, automatic Dual Zone climate control, full LED headlights and a rear parking camera with front & rear parking sensors. For comfort, the driver’s seat adjusts for height and lumbar support and the steering wheel adjusts for rake and reach.

The R-LINK2 multimedia system features an 8.7-inch portrait display which is highly responsive and can be operated with pinch and zoom movements, just like a smartphone or tablet. It gives access to TomTom LIVE services with Western EU mapping, DAB/ FM/AM tuner, Bluetooth audio streaming and vehicle apps.

The Multi-Sense system allows owners to personalise the driving experience using technology first introduced on Renault’s D-segment models. Multi-Sense can be used to modify the throttle pedal and engine response, engine sound, steering weight, the speed of the Auto EDC gear changes, TFT instrument display design and interior lighting ambience through a choice of five colours.

All versions come with Renault’s 4+ warranty and assistance package. The car is protected by Renault for four years or 100,000 miles (first two years have no mileage limit). In the event of a breakdown, Renault provides emergency roadside repairs or towing to the nearest dealer 24/7 every day of the year, plus three years’ European cover. There is also a three-year paint warranty and 12 years’ cover against corrosion.

Servicing is required once a year or every 18,000 miles.

Built at the Palencia plant in Spain alongside the Kadjar, the Mégane uses the Renault-Nissan Alliance’s new Common Module Family (CMF) architecture, which is used on the Espace, Talisman and Kadjar. The platform allows a wide range of cars of different sizes to be created using a variety of modules consisting of out-of-view parts, and is based around five available modules: cockpit, engine bay, front underbody, rear underbody and electronic architecture.

Prices for the hatchback version of the Renault Mégane GT Nav dCi 165 Auto EDC start at £27,740, while Sport Tourer estates start at £29,040.