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For those in the know, Renault makes the most focused, hardcore hot hatch on the block.
Blessed with explosive performance, scalpel sharp handling and a phenomenally clever quick-witted front axle that ensures not a single braked horse is wasted, the (breathe in) Renault Megane Renaultsport 230 F1 Team R26 has had car journalists up and down the country tying themselves up in superlatives.
Great for the track and a hoot on the road the R26 is bound to attract enthusiastic business buyers, but there's a problem - it's no costs hero. Drivers will have to stomach its 27% BIK tax bill and combined 33.2mpg fuel consumption.
A more sensible choice would be its new lookalike stablemate, the RS 175 DCi.
It represents a giant leap of faith for the firm that has so far resisted the temptation for a diesel hot hatch.
Thankfully, this is no half-hearted attempt. The diesel RS gains suspension tuned specially for the diesel lump, while opting for the Lux trim gains the hero-spec R26's looks, making the two completely indistinguishable.
But is it simply a cuddly lamb in wolf's clothing? Not quite, but it's a very different proposition to the petrol. The engine, for example, is a peach far, smoother than the equivalent high output VW-group diesel, but predictably, it doesn't feel that sporting.
The figures highlight a more sedate pace, too, with a 0-62mph of 8.3secs, some 1.8secs behind the petrol range-topper. Mid-range, though, it's a different story, with decent punch.
Handling remains sharp, with the diesel RS receiving a bespoke suspension that helps capitalise on grip. However, our car's 18-inch alloys contributed to a ride bordering on punishing; expect the standard RS to be more cosseting with smaller wheels. Unfortunately, the clever front axle remains exclusively the R26's property.
Alas, what you lose in lap times you make up with fuel savings and tax. The 175PS engine averages 43.5mpg and slips in at 24% BIK bracket.
Overall, then, the RS 175 is a decent stab at a sporty diesel hatch - just make sure you don't drive the petrol before you buy.
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