2011 Renault Megane Renaultsport N4 revealed

Intended for private teams and drivers for racing on asphalt, the N4 is based on the Renaultsport 250 and draws on more than a quarter of a century of rally heritage – including the 5 GT Turbo, R11 Turbo, R21 2I Turbo, R19 16V, Clio Williams and Clio Renaultsport.

Performance from the 2.0-litre turbocharged engine has been increased to 198kW and 470Nm of torque. The main upgrades are to the engine flywheel and the electronic engine management system, which was developed by Cosworth.

The five-speed H-pattern gearbox has been specifically developed to meet FIA standards and features a self-locking limited slip differential.

The unique suspension has been designed in collaboration with Ohlins, and consists of three way-adjustable shock absorbers to provide versatility across all road surfaces and conditions.

The front brakes are 355mm discs with four-piston one-piece calipers. At the rear, the grooved discs from the standard production model are fitted with double-piston fixed calipers. The ABS is disabled, as required by racing regulations.

In terms of safety, the N4 features a stiffened and strengthened Renaultsport monocoque, roll cage, twin bucket seats with six-point harnesses, electrically controlled automatic fire extinguisher and a cut-out switch.

Visually, the N4 shares much with the 250, with its roof-mounted air intake the key distinguishing feature between the two. The N4 also scores a new front bumper with an F1-style integrated aerodynamic blade.

Inside the N4 sports an LCD screen, which provides information about how the engine is running.

The Megane Renaultsport N4 kit is available for 57,500 euros ($77,900).