As title really folks. What is next up for you after a Megane? I'm torn at the moment really have no idea how to top the Meg without spending a massive wedge. Possibles are M135i, S3 sportback or Golf R.
The only thing I could find that piqued my interest was a Lexus ISF, BMW's on the whole just do very little for me, the S3/R VAG stuff just isn't enough of a step up and having driven the S3 can safely say it's not worth the money. Was looking for something automatic but have struggled to tie down something that I felt would be worth the outlay. If I'd been on finance and the terms were up I'd probably be looking at ordering a Leon Cupra with DSG but as above, can't see it's worth the cash price over just keeping the Meg. It's a dilemma...
I've had my R26 nearly a year now so will get a 275 cup s or Trophy next. Wouldn't bother with any VAG cars
Focus RS? I drove the new CTR on track yesterday which was nice but different rather than much better than a RSM but with a look. Lotus Elise or Exige? AMG A45?
It's a tough one, as it stands I don't think there's much I can replace me R26 with. I do a lot of Trackdays so to get anything that's more capable on track with similar running costs seems impossible. I'll no doubt eventually buy a 250 in years to come but as of yet after having fun with a few on track it'll just end up me throwing money at it for coilovers etc like I have with the R26, and truth be told there's other places I'd like to spend my money
I'll probably go Trophy R in a few years.... Had a list of nice cars (see below) in the past and can't fault the 250 Megane in comparison and on track is very comparable to the CSL..!!! 420bhp Evo 9 2x Mk1 Focus RS's (1 340bhp and 1 450bhp) 2x Mk2 Focus RS's (1 420bhp and 1 nigh on 600bhp) E46 M3 CSL Steve
Nice selection there Steve! I'm a massive fan of the e46 M3 but don't think I'd like the costs of tracking one lol. How did you find the mk2 RS? It's a car I've often over looked
In my mind, the Meg is the zenith of hot-hatches (not the fastest), so in order to move on it has to be away from a hatch-back. Porsche Caymen (new flat 4 turbo), Alpine Vision, Lotus Elise, BMW Z4/2-series coupe/4-series coupe, Mercedes SLK/SLC - these are all more money than a Megane, but then we are wanting to go forwards are we not? Of course, if you need the practicalities of a hatch back, that list is not for you. Me, not so much.
I'm looking down the road of M135i & I'm really liking the new Clio 200t at the moment. I like the look of Kia Cee'd GT too.
CSL came alive on track but awful on the road imo, running costs weren't that bad tbh. The MK2 FRS build "quality" isn't that great and I find the Megane with far more miles (52k compared to 17K on the Focus) to be much better. I'd overlooked the Meganes for years and now I'm glad I've finally taken the plunge. Steve
I've just chopped the m3 in for a merc a45amg. I still have the Meg but the merc would give it a serious run for the money. Lee
Have no doubt you meant the Renault would give it a run for its money in the twisties but that's it! Megabe would get destroyed in a straight line! For me it's wait for the MK4 Megane and then choose between that or the current S3 sportback.....hopefully have a child early next year!
Yeah I think they look brilliant inside & out. There's a Kia garage fairly local to me that I keep meaning to drop into & get a test drive of one.
On a track the Meg would be quicker buts that's about it (that's what I meant). The acceleration is very good handling in the twisties is good & the sound with the performance exhaust is something else in sport mode. Greg it is black with silver 19" alloys & the aero pack. I don't have any pics yet as it has been filthy everyday. Lee
You know what. I almost miss my Clio 200 cup I'd defo have another. A bit harsh on a long journey but an awesome little car. So much fun.
But it sounds glorious! Thanks for the drive by the other day Lee, I was in the warehouse but heard it and Robbie Drayton confirmed it was you. Also saw you in Ashby on Friday lunch!
I wasn't sure if you were in the office or not when I pulled up but I did see your car in ashby. Yes mine has the aero pack. Lee
^ just awesome. If for no other reason than the speedo going to 200 - doesn't need anything else :eek:
My two favourite 'next' cars couldn't be more different. One is an Exige S of about the same age or slightly newer than my R26. The other is a new Ford Mustang, don't ask why but the whole idea has got me a bit obsessed at the moment, even though as the mrs and me Mum said "36 grand on a Ford, you need your head feeling". OTOH if it had a German brand badge on it, it would be £50K.