Renault may be planning a return to North America, a market that it has been absent from since 1987. The news comes from a report in the Wall Street Journal, where Renault’s entry-level vehicle boss, Gerard Detourbet, admitted to the possible re-introduction of the French brand; a move that hinges on the success of the Duster SUV (above).

The Duster, which is being manufactured by Renault under the sub-brand of Dacia, will eventually also be sold as a Renault-badged vehicle. If it is successful in markets like South America and Eastern Europe it may just make its way to North America. The likelihood of Renault bringing over just one vehicle hardly makes sense and so Detourbet suggests the brand could launch with a small collection of vehicles.

Perhaps this move could bring about the introduction of two of the French automakers best-known vehicles, the Clio and the Megane, including the hot-hatch Megane RS, (pictured below).

GALLERY:Renault Megane RS

[Source: WallStreetJournal via Autoblog]

After recently launching the new Mégane model, Renault brought its powerful sibling, the Mégane R.S. (Renault Sport) to the Geneva Auto Show. 

Powered by a new 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, the R.S. makes 250hp at 5500 rpm and 251 ft-lbs of torque at 3000 rpm. This is an increase of 20hp and 29.5 ft-lbs of torque over the highly acclaimed R26.R. As well as being a great performer, the car is also good around town with plenty of immediate torque – Renault says that 80 of peak torque is available at just 1800 rpm.

As expected, the new R.S. will be offered with only a six-speed manual transmission. Two trim levels can be ordered, the Sport and the Cup, which features a limited-slip differential. The R.S. is equipped with a stability control system, however, it can be shut completely off.

From the outside, the car is immediately distinguishable by its 18-inch wheels, rear diffuser and Lambo LP640-style central exhaust pipe.

Inside, the car gets aluminum pedal covers, a sport steering wheel, Renault Sport lettering on the headrests, gauges and dashboard. It also comes with a gear-shift indicator that is both visual and audible.

GALLERY: Mégane R.S. 

More on the Mégane R.S. after the jump:

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