RENAULT MEGANE HATCHBACK FULL REVIEW

Renault Megane Hatchback full 9 point review

Performance

3 out of 5 stars

The petrol options are a 109bhp 1.6 and a 114bhp 1.2-litre turbo, while diesel fans can choose from 89 and 109bhp 1.5s, a 129bhp 1.6 and a 158bhp 2.0-litre. The 1.2-litre petrol is far more flexible than the 1.6, while the 109bhp 1.5 and the 1.6 are the standout engines in the diesel range.
Ride & Handling

3 out of 5 stars

The Megane isn't as talented as the best cars in this class, but it does everything reasonably well. It's grippy enough, body lean is well contained, and while the steering has virtually zero feedback, it's responsive, so the Megane turns crisply. The ride is definitely on the firm side, but it's not uncomfortable.
Refinement

3 out of 5 stars

The Megane is a reasonably quiet way to travel. The engines are particularly impressive, being very smooth and quiet. It's a shame that a rather vague gearshift lets the side down a little, while there's also some wind- and road noise on the motorway.

Buying & Owning

4 out of 5 stars

The Megane, spec for spec, is cheaper to buy than key rivals such as the Ford Focus and VW Golf, and you'll get a healthy discount. Running costs for most models are low - the smaller diesel engines are particularly clean and frugal - but residual values aren't great for the class
Quality & Reliability

4 out of 5 stars

The Megane has high-grade materials and a good standard of fit and finish, and that’s enough to give the cabin an impressively classy feel. However, there are some concerns: Renault hasn't exactly covered itself in glory in our reliability and customer satisfaction surveys – it's usually close to the bottom of the rankings, as the Megane was in 2011, finishing 14th in its class.
Safety & Security

5 out of 5 stars

Safety is a banker for Renault, and true to form, the Megane has achieved the maximum five-star rating in Euro NCAP crash tests. All models come with front, side and curtain airbags as standard, plus the all-important stability control system. Renault also fits deadlocks and an alarm across the range.

Behind The Wheel

3 out of 5 stars

Quirks such as a digital speedo, push-button starter system and electronic handbrake make the Megane's interior fussier than it needs to be. However, most of the dash is sensibly laid-out and the driver's seat is supportive and comfortable.
Space & Practicality

2 out of 5 stars

The Megane has enough space for tall people up front, but there's not as much headroom as in many rivals. A sloping roofline means things are worse in the back, where six-footers have to slouch, and things are not helped by legroom that's also well below par. At least you get a large, well-shaped boot.
Equipment

4 out of 5 stars

Even the entry-level Expression+ trim is well equipped, getting air-conditioning, Bluetooth, a USB socket and alloy wheels. Meanwhile, Dynamique TomTom adds automatic lights and wipers, cruise control and satellite-navigation. Range-topping GT Line TomTom models have dual-zone climate control, a parking camera and a sporty body kit, among other items.